Senior Ecologist
Permanent - Full Time £32,000 - £39,000 / yearJob Overview
Ethos Environmental Planning Ltd is part of the Celnor Group a network of specialist environmental, testing, inspection, and risk-management businesses committed to protecting people, places, and the planet. Being part of Celnor provides access to shared tools, development pathways, and group-wide opportunities, while retaining the expertise and identity that makes Ethos a trusted ecological consultancy.
Ethos is an environmental planning consultancy based in the world heritage city of Bath and working across the UK. We are a multi-disciplinary consultancy providing decision-making in relation to planning with a focus on ecology, green space, and biodiversity net gain.
We are seeking an experienced Senior Ecologist to lead ecological assessments, manage projects, and support the delivery of high-quality ecological advice across a wide range of development and conservation projects. The role will be based at our Bath office.
Key Responsibilities
Surveys & Fieldwork
- Lead UK Habitat surveys and condition assessments
- Lead protected species surveys (e.g., great crested newts, bats, reptiles, dormouse, birds)
- Deliver ecological supervision including watching briefs, toolbox talks, and Ecological Clerk of Works duties
Ecological Assessment
- GIS mapping of habitats and ecological features
- Conduct Biodiversity Net Gain assessments using DEFRA Metric and other similar metrics (including BREEAM, Habitat Regulations)
- Prepare survey reports, Environmental Statement chapters, licence applications, management plans, mitigation strategies, and other documents
- Analyse and interpret ecological data in detail
- Assess development impacts and develop mitigation recommendations and monitoring schemes
- Apply current ecological policy, legislation, and guidance
- Undertake quality assurance of reports
Project Management
- Manage a range of projects, including more complex survey programmes
- Lead communication with clients and stakeholders
- Attend project meetings and provide ecological advice
- Consult with statutory and non-statutory consultees
- Prepare quotes, invoices, and manage project budgets
Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
- Minimum 4 years’ experience as an ecologist (including experience undertaking most of the aforementioned tasks)
- Relevant degree or equivalent experience
- Associate membership of CIEEM (or equivalent)
- Strong fieldwork and species ID skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to lead and work collaboratively within teams
- Enthusiasm and initiative for learning
- Ability to manage your own time and workload independently
- Hold a UK driving licence