Senior Ecologist

Job Purpose Summary:
This is a hybrid role, but ideally you need to be in travelling distance of one of their offices.
Cambridge, East Sussex or Kent
Do you want to join an expanding consultancy where you can influence the decision making.
Our client is seeking either a Senior Ecologist or Principle Ecologist
To lead and deliver ecological services across a range of environmental consultancy projects, with a focus on compliance, biodiversity enhancement, and sustainable development.
The Senior Ecologist is responsible for conducting habitat and protected species surveys, including those requiring Natural England licences for European Protected Species (EPS), and preparing detailed ecological assessments and mitigation strategies. This role includes working on infrastructure projects, particularly within the highways sector, ensuring ecological considerations are integrated into design and construction. The Senior Ecologist also mentors junior staff, liaises with clients and regulators, and contributes to biodiversity net gain, habitat restoration, and ecological planning.Key Responsibilities: A list of 6-10 bullet points detailing the primary duties and tasks. Surveys and Assessments: Conduct Phase 1 and 2 Habitat Surveys, Protected Species Surveys, Ecological Impact Assessments and Environmental Impact Assessments, Biodiversity Net Gain, soft estate surveys and ECoW duties.Report Writing and Applications: Produce technical reports including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), EcIAs, HRA and species-specific reports. Ensure reports meet planning and legal requirements. Preparation and submission of detailed mitigation licence applications.Project Works: Preparing fee proposals and competitive tenders. Undertaking quality assurance of reports and plans. Preparing RAMS and work packs. Project financial reporting.Client and Stakeholder Liaison: Liaising with local authorities, Natural England and land owners to apply for licenses and ensure legal compliance. Providing ecological and environmental advice to clients and attending client meetings. Actively seeking to win new business and retain existing clientsManaging and Mentoring: Provide a mentorship role to a team of ecologists, including the coordination and delivery of habitat and species surveys, preparation of high-quality reports and assist with queries or questions to ensure their career development is on track and be on hand for annual appraisals or periodic progress meetings.Team Support: Provide a high level of technical expertise and support across the company. Work closely and communicate with other professionals internally and externally to support the completion of surveys and contractual works