Overview

Location: Warboys, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire
Hybrid working available, with a focus on projects in the East of England
Salary: £41,100 – £55,000 (depending on experience)
Contract: Full-time, permanent (part-time considered)

Are you passionate about leading ecological projects that make a real impact?
Join the friendly and dynamic team at Greenwillows Associates Ltd and take a key role in shaping ecological and biodiversity strategies across the region.

About Us

Founded in 2001, Greenwillows Associates Ltd is an independent, multidisciplinary ecological consultancy dedicated to balancing nature conservation with client goals.

Our work includes a broad range of ecological surveys across Central and Eastern England, as well as arboricultural consultancy and practical habitat creation and management. We focus on projects that reflect our strong conservation ethos — from nightingale habitat restoration and rewilding to small- and large-scale infrastructure schemes.

Why Join Us?

  • Flexible and supportive work culture – family-friendly and inclusive, with a strong focus on staff wellbeing.

  • Competitive salary with regular reviews and clear promotional pathways.

  • Collaborative team environment that values your ideas and fosters professional growth.

  • Annual training budget & CPD opportunities, including:

    • Paid CIEEM membership

    • Survey licences

    • Ongoing botany training (in-house & external)

    • Career development support into senior leadership

  • Diverse local project portfolio to minimise travel and maximise work variety.

  • Forward-thinking ethos – we’re always evolving and keen to support staff in expanding their skills and services.

Your Role

As a Principal Ecologist, you will lead and manage projects, provide expert guidance, and shape ecological strategies within a growing and ambitious consultancy.

Key responsibilities:

  • Lead and manage ecological projects from inception to completion.

  • Provide expert ecological advice to clients, regulators, and stakeholders.

  • Design and deliver ecological surveys (PEAs, PRAs, protected species, habitat surveys).

  • Mentor and support junior and senior colleagues.

  • Engage with planning authorities, regulatory bodies, and statutory agencies.

  • Contribute to business development and client relationship management.

  • Design and implement biodiversity mitigation and enhancement strategies (including BNG assessments).

  • Oversee regulatory compliance and deliver ECoW services where needed.

  • Act as lead ecologist on complex, multidisciplinary projects.

Essential Skills & Experience

  • Minimum of 8 years’ experience in ecological consultancy.

  • Degree (BSc/MSc) in ecology, environmental science, or related field.

  • Hold at least one personal protected species survey licence and be competent in survey and mitigation for a minimum of two protected species.

  • Proficient in UKHab surveys and Biodiversity Metric assessments.

  • Demonstrated experience in managing projects and staff.

  • Excellent reporting skills (PEARs, EcIAs, EPSL applications, ecological management plans).

  • In-depth knowledge of UK and European environmental legislation.

  • Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills.

  • Quality assurance experience on technical outputs.

  • Proven botanical skills (FISC Level 4+ or willing to achieve with support).

  • Experience delivering ECoW services.

  • Full membership of CIEEM.

  • Full UK driving licence and access to transport.

Desirable Skills & Experience

  • GIS mapping and ecological data analysis.

  • A strong professional network within the ecology and conservation sectors.

How to Apply

To apply, please send your CV to Wendy Marsh at:
wendy@greenwillowsassociates.co.uk

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis – apply early to avoid missing out!

We look forward to hearing from you!
Greenwillows Associates Ltd – working for wildlife and people.

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