Consultant Ecologist

Description:

Pegasus Group, a leading development consultancy offering planning, design, environmental, economics, and heritage services across the UK, is seeking a Consultant Ecologist to join its expanding Nature and Biodiversity team. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the design and implementation of ecological strategies across diverse projects, with a particular focus on Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) services.

The ideal candidate will have a strong ecological background, experience in ecological surveys, and the ability to manage and deliver projects across infrastructure, energy, residential, and commercial sectors. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and play a key role in ensuring high-quality ecological outcomes on development projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Support and manage ecological projects across multiple sectors including infrastructure, residential, commercial, and renewable energy.

• Plan and conduct ecological surveys and contribute to reports and assessments (PEA, UKHab, protected species, EcIA, BNG Metrics, HMMPs, LEMPs).

• Provide ecological input for Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) and planning applications.

• Prepare Biodiversity Net Gain assessments using the Statutory Defra metric.

• Develop and implement bespoke BNG strategies, including onsite green infrastructure and offsite solutions.

• Ensure compliance with wildlife legislation and planning policies.

• Develop and maintain client relationships to secure repeat and referral work.

• Contribute to fee proposals, tenders, project planning, risk assessments, and method statements (RAMS).

Requirements

• Degree in ecology or a related environmental discipline.

• At least 2 years of relevant professional experience in ecology.

• Qualifying membership of CIEEM (or eligibility), working towards Associate membership.

• Knowledge of UK ecology, legislation, and planning system.

• Experience with Biodiversity Net Gain and the Statutory Biodiversity Metric.

• Proven track record in supporting and delivering ecological projects.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Working towards protected species licences (e.g., Bats, Great Crested Newt, Hazel Dormouse).

Benefits

• Competitive remuneration and benefits package.

• Comprehensive training and career development through the company’s stepping stones programme.

• Opportunity to work on diverse, high-profile projects within a growing team.

• Supportive and inclusive workplace culture that encourages career growth and authentic participation.

About Pegasus Group

Founded in 2003, Pegasus Group has established a reputation for delivering innovative and sustainable solutions across various sectors, including residential, health, education, retail, energy, leisure, and employment. With 14 offices and a dedicated team of professionals, Pegasus Group is committed to creating spaces that positively impact communities while fostering a culture of inclusion, belonging, and care.