Senior Ecologist

Are you an experienced Ecologist looking for your next challenge? Do you want to work on a variety of exciting projects that balance wildlife conservation with development? If so, we would love to hear from you!

At Lakeway Ecological Consultancy, we are a small but growing wildlife-focused ecological consultancy based in the heart of Devon. Due to our continued success, we are looking for a passionate and skilled Senior Ecologist to join our team.

Why Join Us?

• Career Growth: A fantastic opportunity to develop your consultancy career with the support of experienced ecologists and conservationists.
• Diverse Projects: Work on everything from small-scale developments to large, and conservation and monitoring projects.
• Flexible Working: Office-based in Okehampton, with hybrid or remote working options considered.
• Work-Life Balance: TOIL policy in place to support a healthy work schedule.

About the Role

As a Senior Ecologist, you will:

• Manage and lead projects, including ecological surveys (PEA, dormouse, reptile, bat surveys), mitigation strategies, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Assessments, HRA and Phosphate Assessments.
• Work closely with clients, local authorities, and stakeholders to achieve the best outcomes for wildlife and development.
• Provide mentorship to junior team members and peer review reports as part of our Quality Assurance process.
• Conduct and oversee protected species surveys and mitigation, with a focus on bat licensing (EPSL).

Who We Are Looking For

Essential:

• A degree in Ecology or related subject.
• Minimum 4 years’ experience in consultancy/nature conservation.
• Experience with UKHab, BNG Assessments, protected species surveys & mitigation.
• Strong communication skills, including liaising with Natural England, County Ecologists & Local Authorities.
• Level 2 bat licence, with experience in EPSL mitigation licensing (licence holder or accredited agent).
• A full UK driving licence (or alternative means to travel to remote survey sites).

Desirable:

• FISC Level 4 or equivalent botanical skills.
• Experience mentoring or managing staff.
• Experience conducting HRA assessments.

What We Offer

• Salary: £33,000 – £40,000 (depending on experience)
• Full-time (37.5 hrs) or Part-time (min. 3 days/week)
• Holidays: 20 days + bank holidays + birthday off + Christmas shutdown (minimum 33 days total)
• Training & Development: Access to external and in-house training
• Professional Membership Fees Covered (CIEEM, licences, vaccinations)
• Attendance at a UK conference of your choice each year
• Pension Contribution: 5% employer contribution
• Regular check-ins with Directors to support staff well-being

We aim to acknowledge receipt of all applications within five working days.