Average Principal Ecologist salary in the UK

A leading multidisciplinary consultancy, based in Epsom, is seeking an experienced Principal Ecologist to join its growing Environment team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in shaping complex and high-profile projects spanning infrastructure, energy, and nature recovery. The consultancy is recognised for combining ecological expertise with engineering and design innovation to deliver sustainable, nature-positive outcomes. The Principal Ecologist will lead technical delivery, mentor colleagues, and provide strategic input into large-scale environmental programmes. Why Apply? Competitive salary and performance-related bonus Hybrid working with flexibility to balance field, office, and home life Excellent pension and benefits package Opportunities for career progression within a global, multidisciplinary team Access to cutting-edge ecological projects across the UK and internationally Strong culture of collaboration, innovation, and professional development Key Responsibilities Lead and oversee ecological components of major projects, ensuring high-quality delivery Provide technical direction, review reports, and ensure compliance with legislation and policy Build and maintain client relationships, supporting business development and proposal writing Guide and mentor junior ecologists, fostering technical excellence and team growth Represent the ecology discipline in multi-disciplinary meetings and workshops About You Degree in ecology or a related environmental discipline Extensive consultancy experience and proven track record in project leadership Chartered Ecologist or full member of CIEEM (or working towards this) Strong understanding of UK wildlife legislation, planning processes, and biodiversity policy Excellent communication skills and confidence working with clients and stakeholders Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel as required The OfferThis position offers the chance to work within one of the UK's most respected consultancies, where ecological expertise is valued and integrated into the heart of sustainable design. You'll be supported by a national network of specialists while enjoying the autonomy to lead diverse and meaningful projects.

Principal Ecologist - Cambridge A leading UK environmental consultancy is seeking a Principal Ecologist to join their Cambridge-based team. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced and forward-thinking ecologist to take the next step in their career within a supportive and well-established consultancy, which forms part of a larger global environmental and engineering group. Benefits; Competitive salary aligned with experience and market ratesFlexible/hybrid working to support work-life balanceExciting, high-profile projects across infrastructure, renewables, water, and built environment sectorsClear progression pathways and structured career developmentCollaborative, inclusive team culture with access to technical experts across disciplinesComprehensive benefits package, including private healthcare, pension, and generous leave policiesStrong commitment to sustainability and biodiversity net gain The Role; The Principal Ecologist will lead on a diverse portfolio of projects, provide technical oversight, and mentor a growing team of ecologists. The role includes project management, client engagement, high-level ecological assessment and reporting, and input into multi-disciplinary design and planning teams. Key responsibilities include; Leading and delivering ecological inputs on a range of projects from concept to completionDesigning and overseeing ecological surveys and assessments (including EIA and HRA)Providing technical review and quality assurance of reportsManaging client relationships and contributing to business developmentSupporting the development and mentoring of junior ecologistsEnsuring work is delivered in line with current legislation, best practice, and client expectations You will ideally have; Significant experience in ecological consultancy or a similar roleStrong understanding of UK and EU wildlife legislation and planning policyProven experience managing ecological aspects of complex projectsExpertise in one or more specialist areas (e.g. bats, great crested newts, ornithology, botany)Full member of CIEEM (or eligible)Project management and client-facing experienceProtected species licences (desirable)Full UK driving licence Interested in this opportunity? Please apply today or contact Ashleigh Garner at Penguin Recruitment.

A sustainability-driven consultancy are looking for a Principal Ecologist to join its expanding ecology team in London. The company are well known for delivering high-quality, integrated environmental and sustainability solutions across a range of sectors - from urban regeneration to infrastructure and development. As a senior member of the team, the successful candidate will take a leading role in managing complex ecological projects, mentoring junior staff, and working closely with clients to deliver innovative and pragmatic outcomes that balance biodiversity with sustainable development.Benefits A highly competitive salary based on experience. Flexible and hybrid working, with the option to work from home and a modern central London office. Generous annual leave, plus additional wellbeing days. Employee profit share scheme and performance-related bonus. Private healthcare, enhanced pension contributions, and life assurance. Comprehensive training and career development support, including professional subscriptions. The opportunity to work within a collaborative, values-led culture focused on sustainability, biodiversity enhancement, and innovation in the built environment. Key Responsibilities Lead and manage ecological surveys, assessments and mitigation strategies across diverse projects. Provide high-level technical expertise on ecological planning, legislation, and biodiversity net gain (BNG). Deliver robust reports, environmental statements and habitat management plans. Manage client relationships, develop proposals, and contribute to the growth of the ecology business. Support, mentor and develop a talented team of ecologists and graduates. Work collaboratively with other environmental and sustainability specialists to deliver integrated project outcomes. About You A degree (and ideally a postgraduate qualification) in ecology or a related environmental discipline. Full membership (or eligibility for membership) of CIEEM. Proven experience in consultancy, including project management and client liaison. A strong understanding of UK and European wildlife legislation and planning policy. Demonstrable experience in delivering Biodiversity Net Gain and ecological input for EIA projects. A pragmatic, solution-focused mindset and strong leadership skills. Interested in this opportunity? Please apply today or contact Ashleigh Garner from Penguin Recruitment for a confidential chat!