Principal Ecologist

Description:

Pegasus Group, a leading UK development consultancy, is expanding its in-house Nature and Biodiversity team and seeks a Principal Ecologist to lead ecological strategy and delivery across a range of projects, with a focus on Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) services. The role involves acting as the key technical lead on high-profile projects across infrastructure, energy, residential, and commercial sectors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as technical lead and/or project manager on diverse ecological projects.

• Design, manage, and oversee ecological surveys and assessments (e.g., UKHab, protected species, EcIA, HRA, BNG).

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

• Advise clients on ecological constraints, mitigation, and enhancement opportunities.

• Lead production and review of BNG assessments using the Defra metric.

• Develop bespoke BNG strategies, including on-site green infrastructure and off-site BNG solutions.

• Collaborate with planners, landscape architects, and design teams to integrate biodiversity into projects.

• Liaise with statutory bodies such as Natural England and local planning authorities.

• Ensure compliance with wildlife legislation and planning policy.

• Mentor junior team members and manage multidisciplinary teams.

• Contribute to fee proposals, multidisciplinary tenders, and maintain quality assurance and health & safety standards.

Requirements & Skills:

• Degree in ecology or related environmental discipline.

• At least 8+ years of professional experience in the ecological sector.

• Full CIEEM membership (or eligibility) and working towards chartership.

• Expertise in UK ecology, legislation, planning system, and Biodiversity Net Gain.

• Proven record managing complex ecological projects.

• Strong leadership, project management, and communication skills.

• Relevant protected species licenses (e.g., Bats, Great Crested Newt, Hazel Dormouse).

Desirable:

• Line management experience.

• Experience developing off-site BNG solutions or sourcing Biodiversity Units.

• Designing and implementing habitat creation or enhancement schemes.

• Additional protected species survey licenses.

Benefits & Highlights:

• Competitive remuneration and benefits package.

• Career development through training initiatives and the stepping stones programme.

• Opportunity to work on high-impact ecological projects.

• Collaborative, inclusive, and innovative work environment.

Company Overview:
Pegasus Group is a dynamic UK consultancy delivering planning, design, environmental, economics, and heritage services across multiple sectors. They emphasize sustainable, innovative solutions, staff empowerment, and inclusive workplace culture.