Senior Ecologist

Your new company A well-established ecological consultancy is seeking a Senior Ecologist to join their growing team. This is a permanent position based in Leeds, Yorkshire with flexibility for the right candidate. The consultancy works on diverse projects across the UK, offering a supportive and collaborative environment. Your new role The main responsibilities of this role will include: Manage projects from inception to completion, ensuring quality and timely delivery. Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, regulators, and stakeholders. Prepare and secure tenders and fee proposals. Lead and design protected species and habitat surveys. Mentor junior team members and support their development. Produce and review technical reports, including PEAs, EcIAs, BNG assessments, and Habitat Regulations Assessments. Provide expert advice on planning policy and ecological legislation. Identify innovative solutions to project challenges. Work flexibly, including occasional unsociable hours for surveys. What you'll need to succeed Essential Requirements Minimum 4 years' experience in ecological consultancy. Degree in Ecology or related discipline (or equivalent experience). Full UK driving licence and access to own vehicle. Strong understanding of planning systems and current legislation. Membership of CIEEM (Associate or above). Proven project management skills. Experience in leading protected species or habitat surveys. Skilled in writing PEAs, EcIAs, and BNG assessments. Holder of one or more protected species licences (e.g., bats, badgers) or equivalent expertise. Proficiency in GIS software (QGIS/QField or similar). Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Flexible approach to hours and travel Desirable Mitigation licence (e.g., Bat Mitigation Class Licence). Specialism in badgers, bats (including tree climbing), botany, or ornithology. What you'll get in return Salary: £30,000 - £45,000 DOE Flexible working arrangements Paid professional memberships and licence fees Paid overtime or TOIL Pension contributions Annual leave plus Christmas shutdown Discretionary performance bonus Company-funded social events What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career. Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

Location: Leeds, UK, GB

Posted Date: 11/13/2025