Senior Ecologist

Department: Field Team

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Bath

Reporting To: Steph Green

Compensation: £32,000 - £39,000 / year

Description

Ethos Environmental Planning Ltd is part of the Celnor Group a network of specialist environmental, testing, inspection, and risk-management businesses committed to protecting people, places, and the planet. Being part of Celnor provides access to shared tools, development pathways, and group-wide opportunities, while retaining the expertise and identity that makes Ethos a trusted ecological consultancy.

Ethos is an environmental planning consultancy based in the world heritage city of Bath and working across the UK. We are a multi-disciplinary consultancy providing decision-making in relation to planning with a focus on ecology, green space, and biodiversity net gain.

We are seeking an experienced Senior Ecologist to lead ecological assessments, manage projects, and support the delivery of high-quality ecological advice across a wide range of development and conservation projects. The role will be based at our Bath office.

Key Responsibilities

Surveys & Fieldwork

Lead UK Habitat surveys and condition assessments
Lead protected species surveys (e.g., great crested newts, bats, reptiles, dormouse, birds)
Deliver ecological supervision including watching briefs, toolbox talks, and Ecological Clerk of Works duties

Ecological Assessment

GIS mapping of habitats and ecological features
Conduct Biodiversity Net Gain assessments using DEFRA Metric and other similar metrics (including BREEAM, Habitat Regulations)
Prepare survey reports, Environmental Statement chapters, licence applications, management plans, mitigation strategies, and other documents
Analyse and interpret ecological data in detail
Assess development impacts and develop mitigation recommendations and monitoring schemes
Apply current ecological policy, legislation, and guidance
Undertake quality assurance of reports

Project Management

Manage a range of projects, including more complex survey programmes
Lead communication with clients and stakeholders
Attend project meetings and provide ecological advice
Consult with statutory and non-statutory consultees
Prepare quotes, invoices, and manage project budgets

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

Minimum 4 years’ experience as an ecologist (including experience undertaking most of the aforementioned tasks)
Relevant degree or equivalent experience
Associate membership of CIEEM (or equivalent)
Strong fieldwork and species ID skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to lead and work collaboratively within teams
Enthusiasm and initiative for learning
Ability to manage your own time and workload independently
Hold a UK driving licence

Why join us?

Lead projects and practice in a senior, influential role
Work as part of a growing and respected consultancy
Access to group-wide learning programmes, career development, and networks
Contribute to projects that make a real environmental impact

· 25 days leave (pro rata)

· Ethos offers a discretionary 9-day fortnight where staff receive every other Friday off

· Staff support/mentoring

· Flexible working hours are available, including working at home, to be agreed with the Managing Director;

TOIL and overtime

· We will provide a minimum of 4 days formal training per year (minimum 2 days external);

· Work related expenses paid, including mileage at 0.45p;

· Statutory Sick Pay and Maternity leave will apply in line with the most recent government guidance;

· A contributory pension scheme is available to employees where up to 4% of salary can be paid in by employees which is matched as a salary addition by the employer.

Key Responsibilities

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

Why join us?

About Ethos