Are you an experienced Senior 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 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
How to apply
Send your CV and a covering letter (max 2 pages) detailing how you meet the role requirements to
ruth.testa@lakeway-ecological.co.uk
Questions? Call us on 01837 218016
We aim to acknowledge receipt of all applications within five working days.
