Senior Ecologist
| Posting date: | 20 February 2026 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | £36,500.0 to £41,500.0 per year |
| Additional salary information: | £36,500 - £41,500 (DOE) |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 22 March 2026 |
| Location: | Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 1AA |
| Company: | Hays Specialist Recruitment |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | 4772233_1771594561 |
Summary
Your new company
A respected and expanding environmental consultancy is entering an exciting phase of growth following a recent office move and team expansion. They deliver a diverse portfolio of ecological and habitat related projects across the UK, providing both consultancy services and in house environmental contracting.
With a dedicated ecology division supported by specialist contractors, the organisation offers a unique opportunity for ecologists to be involved in project work from initial survey through to on the ground habitat creation and enhancement.
Your new role
As a Senior Ecologist, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality ecological services across a wide variety of projects.
You will:
- Lead and undertake botanical, habitat, and protected species surveys
- Prepare professional technical reports including PEAs, habitat/species assessments and EIA contributions
- Complete Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments and produce Habitat Management & Monitoring Plans (HMMPs)
- Support senior leadership while mentoring and developing junior team members
- Contribute to projects from early scoping through to practical implementation
- Travel to sites across the UK as required
What you'll need to succeed
- 4-5 years' experience in ecological consultancy
- Degree (or higher) in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline
- FISC Level 3+
- Full UK driving licence
- Membership or eligibility for membership of CIEEM
- Strong botanical ID skills and proven experience leading ecological surveys
- Excellent understanding of ecological processes, survey methodologies and relevant wildlife legislation
- High quality report writing skills suitable for client delivery
Desirable
- A protected species licence (bat or great crested newt)
- Experience with BNG assessments and HMMPs
- FISC Level 4
What you'll get in return
- Competitive salary with annual reviews
- Flexible and hybrid working options
- 25 days annual leave + bank holidays (increasing with service)
- TOIL (time off in lieu) policy for additional hours worked
- Company pension scheme
- Paid professional memberships (e.g., CIEEM)
- Clear progression pathways with dedicated mentoring
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
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