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Location: Kent (Hybrid / Flexible Working)
Salary: 40,000+ DOE
Contract: Permanent, Full-Time
Our client is a well-established and respected environmental consultancy delivering ecological and environmental services to a diverse client base across the UK. As part of continued growth, they are seeking an experienced Principal Ecologist to lead projects, support strategic development, and play a key role in mentoring and managing ecological teams in their Kent office.
This is an excellent opportunity for a senior ecologist looking to step into a leadership role with genuine influence over project delivery, client relationships, and the future direction of the ecology team.
The Role
As Principal Ecologist, you will:
Lead and manage complex ecological projects from tender through to delivery
Provide technical leadership and quality assurance across ecological reports and assessments
Act as a key point of contact for clients, planners, and stakeholders
Oversee and support the development of senior and junior ecologists
Contribute to business development, proposals, and strategic growth
Ensure compliance with UK wildlife legislation, planning policy, and best practice
Support workload planning, resourcing, and team management
About You
You will likely have:
A degree (or higher) in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline
Extensive experience in ecological consultancy at Senior or Principal level
Strong knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and planning processes
Proven experience leading EcIAs, PEAs, and complex ecological assessments
Chartered membership (or working towards) of CIEEM
One or more protected species licences (highly desirable)
Strong leadership, mentoring, and client management skills
A full UK driving licence
What's On Offer
Salary of 40,000+ DOE
Kent-based role with hybrid and flexible working options
Senior leadership position with influence over projects and team direction
Varied and high-profile projects across multiple sectors
Support for continued professional development and career progression
If you are a motivated ecologist looking to make a real impact and lead ecological projects, we would love to hear from you.
Contact James Hardie at Penguin Recruitment.
