senior ecologist

Senior Ecologist - Leeds

Location: Leeds (preferred) / Bolsover (considered)
Salary: 30,000 - 45,000 (DOE)
Contract: Full-time, Permanent

Our client is a growing, close-knit ecological consultancy with a big reputation for delivering high-quality work across the North of England. Founded in 2019, they're now looking for a Senior Ecologist who's ready to step straight into project leadership - managing complex surveys, guiding clients, and mentoring junior staff from day one.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with excellent botany and protected species expertise who thrives on autonomy and high standards. You'll have the freedom to shape projects your way while being part of a supportive and collaborative team.

• Lead and deliver ecology projects from proposal to completion

• Manage client relationships and ensure top-quality outcomes

• Conduct and oversee habitat, botanical and protected species surveys

• Produce clear, accurate, and professional ecological reports

• Mentor junior ecologists and share your technical expertise

• At least 4 years' ecology consultancy experience, with proven project management skills

• Strong botany and protected species knowledge (botanical ID, habitat assessment, mitigation, etc.)

• Degree in Ecology or related discipline

• CIEEM membership (Associate or Full)

• One or more protected species licences desirable

• Proficiency with QGIS/QField and solid understanding of planning policy and legislation

• Full UK driving licence and flexibility for occasional evening/weekend surveys

• Flexible and supportive working environment

• Paid overtime or TOIL

• Funded memberships, licences, and ongoing CPD

• Pension contributions and annual bonus

• Social team culture and Christmas shutdown

If you're ready to take ownership of your projects and make an immediate impact, we'd love to hear from you.

Contact: James Hardie at Penguin Recruitment