Senior or Principal Ecologist

Senior / Principal Ecologist
Location: Haywards Heath or Portsmouth
Salary: Competitive
Type: Permanent, Full-Time

Overview

Our client delivers a wide range of environmental and engineering projects, with a strong focus on nature-based solutions, climate resilience and sustainable development. Their work spans habitat creation, river restoration, natural flood management and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), supporting clients across the public, private and third sectors.

This is an opportunity to play a key role in delivering meaningful environmental outcomes while working within a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.

The Role

The successful candidate will provide technical leadership across a diverse portfolio of ecological projects, taking responsibility for both delivery and client engagement.

Working closely with engineers, geomorphologists, planners and other specialists, you will contribute to the design and implementation of practical, evidence-led solutions.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading ecological surveys, assessments and mitigation strategies
• Delivering Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments and advising on habitat creation
• Managing projects to meet programme, budget and quality expectations
• Producing high-quality reports including PEAs, EcIAs and HRAs
• Supporting and mentoring junior team members
• Contributing to business development, including bids and client engagement
• Collaborating across multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated project outcomes

Candidate Requirements

Advance TRS is seeking candidates with strong consultancy experience and a proactive, collaborative approach. The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• Solid experience in ecological consultancy, including project management and client-facing work
• Strong field skills across habitats and protected species (licences desirable)
• Experience delivering BNG assessments and applying biodiversity metrics
• Good understanding of UK environmental legislation and planning policy
• Ability to produce clear, accurate technical reports in line with industry standards
• Confident communication skills with clients, regulators and internal teams

Qualifications & Memberships

• Degree in Ecology or a related discipline
• Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g. working towards or holding Chartered status)
• Full UK driving licence

Desirable Experience

• Experience in river restoration, natural flood management or water-based environments
• Knowledge of the Water Framework Directive (WFD)
• Experience as an Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW)
• GIS capability and spatial data analysis
• Experience working on large or complex infrastructure or environmental projects

Working Arrangements

This role offers flexibility, with a mix of office, home and site-based working. Travel may be required depending on project needs.

Why Apply?

• Opportunity to work on environmentally focused, purpose-driven projects
• Collaborative and supportive team environment
• Clear opportunities for career development and progression
• Flexible working arrangements and competitive benefits

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.