Average Principal Ecologist salary in the UK

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!

Principal Ecologist Location: Kent (Hybrid / Flexible Working)Salary: £40,000+ DOEContract: Permanent, Full-Time Our client is a well-established and respected environmental consultancy delivering ecological and environmental services to a diverse client base across the UK. As part of continued growth, they are seeking an experienced Principal Ecologist to lead projects, support strategic development, and play a key role in mentoring and managing ecological teams in their Kent office. This is an excellent opportunity for a senior ecologist looking to step into a leadership role with genuine influence over project delivery, client relationships, and the future direction of the ecology team. The Role As Principal Ecologist, you will: Lead and manage complex ecological projects from tender through to delivery Provide technical leadership and quality assurance across ecological reports and assessments Act as a key point of contact for clients, planners, and stakeholders Oversee and support the development of senior and junior ecologists Contribute to business development, proposals, and strategic growth Ensure compliance with UK wildlife legislation, planning policy, and best practice Support workload planning, resourcing, and team management About You You will likely have: A degree (or higher) in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline Extensive experience in ecological consultancy at Senior or Principal level Strong knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and planning processes Proven experience leading EcIAs, PEAs, and complex ecological assessments Chartered membership (or working towards) of CIEEM One or more protected species licences (highly desirable) Strong leadership, mentoring, and client management skills A full UK driving licence What's On Offer Salary of £40,000+ DOE Kent-based role with hybrid and flexible working options Senior leadership position with influence over projects and team direction Varied and high-profile projects across multiple sectors Support for continued professional development and career progression If you are a motivated ecologist looking to make a real impact and lead ecological projects, we would love to hear from you. Contact James Hardie at Penguin Recruitment.