Location
Cambridge
Industry sector
Environment
Job type
Permanent | Full Time
Job start date
ASAP
Posted date
18/06/2026
Closing date
09/07/2026
Principal Ecologist
£40,000 - £55,000
Cambridge
A fantastic opportunity has arisen for an experienced Principal Ecologist to join a respected, award-winning environmental consultancy based in Cambridge. This multidisciplinary practice has a long-standing reputation for delivering innovative and sustainable solutions across ecology, environmental planning, landscape architecture and natural resource management throughout the UK.
As a Principal Ecologist, you will play a key role in leading ecological projects from initial surveys through to assessment, mitigation design and planning support. The Principal Ecologist will work closely with clients, planning authorities and multidisciplinary teams on a diverse range of development, infrastructure, conservation and renewable energy projects. This Principal Ecologist position offers excellent opportunities to mentor junior staff, contribute to business growth and help shape the future of the ecology team. The successful Principal Ecologist will be based in Cambridge and enjoy a varied workload across the South East and the wider UK.
What's on offer:
* Competitive salary dependent on experience
* Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
* Private medical insurance
* Life assurance
* Company pension scheme
* Payment of professional memberships
* Tailored training and CPD opportunities
* Additional holiday purchase scheme
* Cycle to Work scheme
* Friendly and collaborative working environment
Requirements:
* Significant ecological consultancy experience
* Strong project management and report writing skills
* Protected species survey and mitigation experience
* Excellent communication and client-facing abilities
* Membership of CIEEM (Chartered status desirable)
* Full UK driving licence
* Full right to work in the UK
* Ability to regularly attend the Cambridge office
* Living in or near the office location
* Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
We have many more vacancies available on our website. Please refer to www.penguinrecruitment.co.uk. This is a permanent role. Penguin Recruitment is operating as a Recruitment Agency in respect to this position.