Senior - Principal Ecologist

New Today

An excellent opportunity for a skilled ecologist to take a leading role within a growing team focused on nature-based solutions and biodiversity integration. This is a chance to work on a wide variety of environmental projects spanning all stages of the development cycle-from concept to delivery-making a real difference for both people and nature.

Based in Southampton, you'll lead project ecology work, guide junior colleagues, and contribute to technical delivery across a collaborative and inclusive consultancy environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead ecological inputs on a mix of small and medium-sized projects
  • Conduct and oversee habitat and protected species surveys
  • Prepare high-quality technical documents such as PEAs, EcIAs, and method statements
  • Mentor and support junior team members on fieldwork and project delivery
  • Engage in project management and commercial tasks (optional development path)
  • Contribute to best practice, biodiversity strategies, and digital innovation
  • Collaborate nationally with peers across a wider ecology team

What You\'ll Bring

  • Degree in Ecology or related field (Master\'s preferred)
  • Strong consultancy background with field experience and technical reporting skills
  • Full membership of a relevant ecological professional body
  • Understanding of wildlife legislation and planning processes
  • Licence to survey at least one protected species and/or FISC Level 4 (or equivalent)
  • Ability to write clear, accurate, and concise ecological reports
  • Collaborative and proactive team player with mentoring mindset
  • Willingness to travel for fieldwork or project needs

Desirable:

  • Project management or bid preparation experience
  • Chartered status (Ecologist, Environmentalist, Biologist)
  • Experience in Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) roles
  • Familiarity with biodiversity net gain metrics and digital tools

Why Apply?

  • Be part of an environmental team driving nature-positive development
  • Contribute to future-focused projects in health, water, flood, and local planning
  • Enjoy career growth opportunities in a supportive and progressive culture
  • Access hybrid working, mentoring, flexible leave, and a generous benefits package
  • Influence the way ecology is embedded in sustainable infrastructure and design

Salary and Benefits

  • Up to £65,000 (DOE) + annual bonus scheme
  • 33-35 days holiday (including public holidays), with option to buy/sell
  • Private medical insurance and health cash plan
  • Enhanced family and carers leave policies
  • Pension contributions matched up to 7%
  • Life assurance (4x salary, with option to increase)
  • Income protection scheme
  • Flexible working arrangements and hybrid options
  • Professional subscriptions paid
  • Career progression through tailored learning, mentoring, and internal promotion

When applying to any role through Cobalt, your CV will never be shared with a client without your prior consent. Apply in confidence below or get in touch with me for a confidential discussion about the position via sgreeff@cobaltrecruitment.com or 07458161399.

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Apply
Location:
Southampton, England, United Kingdom
Salary:
£100,000 - £125,000
Job Type:
FullTime
Category:
Other

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