Location
Kenilworth, United Kingdom

Hours
Full-time, hybrid working with a mix of office, home, and site work as needed

Salary
Competitive salary package (details available upon application)

About the Role
Join Thomson Environmental Consultants and help shape a future where nature and business thrive together. As a Principal Ecologist based in our Birmingham Ecology Team, you will lead and deliver large, complex ecological projects from commission through to report delivery. You will combine technical expertise and project management skills to provide best-practice advice, ensure compliance with legislation and policy, and support the delivery of high-quality environmental outcomes.

Your role will include handling technically challenging tasks such as European Protected Species Licence (EPSL) applications, Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs), and Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRA). You will work closely with clients and colleagues, building strong relationships and ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to a high standard. Additionally, you will advise, coach, mentor, and potentially line manage junior team members, helping them develop their skills and expertise.

Thomson is a fast-growing, innovative environmental consultancy with multidisciplinary expertise across terrestrial and freshwater ecology, hydrology, marine science, GIS, habitat management, arboriculture, and environmental impact assessment. We are proud of our supportive, collaborative culture and commitment to career development, offering access to industry-accredited training, specialist internal training, and opportunities to work on high-profile projects.

We actively promote a healthy work-life balance and provide a competitive benefits package including 25 days annual leave, healthcare cash plan, enhanced pension scheme, life insurance, discounted gym membership, paid professional memberships, clothing allowance, performance rewards, free parking, and regular social events. We are also committed to diversity, inclusion, and giving back through charity and community initiatives.

If you are a skilled and motivated ecologist looking to lead and influence meaningful environmental impact, we encourage you to apply and join Thomson’s journey.

Experience
- Proven experience in environmental consultancy
- Strong background in ecology supported by an ecological degree or equivalent
- Track record of winning work and building client relationships
- Advanced field skills in one or more specialist areas
- Experience delivering high-quality ecological reports and assessments
- Experience with European Protected Species Licence (EPSL) applications, Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs), and Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRA)

About you
- Excellent communication and organisational skills
- Proactive, collaborative, and solutions-focused approach
- Ability to lead complex projects and mentor junior team members
- Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle with business insurance
- Based in the UK with the Right to Work

Qualifications
- Degree or equivalent qualification in ecology or related discipline
- Hold a protected species licence or equivalent specialist accreditation