Principal Ecologist

Overview

We are seeking a Principal Ecologist to join our Ecology Offers Team. You will provide close support to the Head of Offers, leading on the identification, assessment and development of early-stage Habitat Bank opportunities across England, with a particular focus in your defined geographical region. You will oversee a broad set of responsibilities, mentoring and supporting other ecologists, and ensuring early-stage projects are ecologically robust and commercially viable. This role focuses on feasibility and concept design, working closely with internal teams to deliver commercially viable designs that prioritise delivery of the right habitats in the right places.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Lead on the identification, appraisal and progression of multiple Habitat Bank projects, including complex sites, from initial enquiry through to commercial offer, ensuring alignment with organisational strategy and objectives.
• Undertake ecological surveys, including site walkovers, UK Habitat Classification, and habitat condition assessments (ranging from simple to complex habitats), alongside early-stage feasibility assessments, evaluating ecological potential, constraints, BNG suitability and deliverability, and recommending whether sites should progress to offer.
• Manage and prioritise a pipeline of opportunities, assessing ecological value, strategic fit and commercial viability.
• Analyse ecological data and complete Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments using the Statutory Biodiversity Metric, determining baseline units and uplift potential.
• Develop concept Habitat Bank designs, setting out habitat creation and enhancement opportunities for a range of sites, including complex projects.
• Produce high-quality written outputs, GIS mapping and commercial offer materials, clearly communicating site potential and supporting landowner engagement. Lead on the development of internal documents, alongside the Head of Offers.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with landowners and stakeholders, acting as a key technical contact and supporting client visits alongside the internal sales team.
• Mentor and support colleagues, contribute to team development, and stay current with ecological research and BNG/Natural Capital best practice to improve delivery and decision‑making.

Requirements

You are passionate about ecology and motivated by delivering meaningful biodiversity outcomes through practical, evidence-based work. To be successful in this role, you will bring the following skills and experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in ecology, environmental science, biology or a related discipline (minimum requirement), with a postgraduate qualification desirable.
• Full or Associate CIEEM membership.
• FISC Level 3 (ideally Level 4) or equivalent botanical competency.
• Proven experience leading ecological surveys and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments, including complex sites, with strong technical expertise in UK habitat classification, species identification, conservation priorities, and use of the Statutory Biodiversity Metric and GIS software.
• Strong analytical and project leadership experience, delivering feasibility assessments, site approvals and habitat planning across multiple projects.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, including producing high‑quality landowner-facing documents, presenting technical information clearly, and building effective working relationships.
• Valid UK driving licence and willingness to travel to project sites across the country.

At Environment Bank we believe that fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace makes us more innovative, dynamic, and competitive. We welcome individuals from all backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures, and experiences. We are committed to creating an environment where everyone is valued and respected, free from discrimination based on race, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or expression, or any other legally protected status.