Bennett and Game are currently looking for a Senior / Principal Ecologist on behalf of a leading Manchester based environmental consultancy delivering ecology, arboriculture, and green infrastructure services across residential, commercial, infrastructure, and education projects.

This role will suit an experienced consultant with strong technical knowledge, proven field expertise, and a confident approach to project and team leadership. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing the full ecology workstream across a varied portfolio, from protected species surveys through to licence applications, client delivery, and mentoring junior staff.

With a supportive, multi-disciplinary structure and a focus on sustainable, deliverable solutions, this is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to step into a leadership role while staying hands-on with ecology delivery.

Senior / Principal Ecologist Position Overview

Lead and manage multiple ecology projects from inception through to final delivery
Conduct site-based habitat and protected species surveys, with particular emphasis on bats, GCN, and Phase 1/UKHab
Take ownership of technical report writing, EcIA delivery, EPS licensing, and biodiversity net gain assessments
Mentor and support junior ecologists, offering guidance, technical checks, and development planning
Act as point of contact for clients, consultants, and planning authorities
Oversee health and safety compliance, fieldwork logistics, and seasonal team resourcing
Play a key role in team development and supporting the wider ecology business planSenior / Principal Ecologist Position Requirements

Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related subject
Minimum 3-5 years' consultancy experience
Full Member of CIEEM (essential)
Deep understanding of UK/EC wildlife legislation and planning policy
Demonstrable project management skills, including commercial oversight and delivery against deadlines
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Experience preparing EPSL documents, BNG assessments, and EcIAs
Licences for bats and/or great crested newts (desirable)
HRA, GIS capability, or FISC Level 3+ qualifications are advantageous
Full UK driving licenceSenior / Principal Ecologist Salary and Benefits

Salary range: £40,000 - £45,000, dependent on experience and licensing
24 days holiday (plus bank holidays), rising to 30 with long service
Hybrid working - flexible arrangements dependent on project demands
5% employer pension contribution
Paid professional subscription (1 per year)
Access to company fleet vehicles for site travel
Cycle to Work Scheme and Techscheme
Eyecare scheme
Season ticket cash advance available
1 volunteering day per year
Regular staff events and a collaborative, low-hierarchy team cultureBennett and Game Recruitment are a multi-disciplined technical recruitment agency based in Chichester, West Sussex operating across the UK with specialist teams covering a range of industries.

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