MKA Ecology is a well-established, thriving ecological consultancy with offices in Cambridge, Oxford, and London. We have a stable, growing client base, an excellent range of projects, and expertise across all ecological specialisms. As a CIEEM Registered Practice, we are committed to best practice and helping our clients deliver net gain in their developments. In February 2025, we became part of the Ecology Group—a partnership of ecological consultancies across the UK that supports our growth while respecting our autonomy, values, and team culture.
At MKA, our mission is to offer excellent ecological consultancy services to our clients and a safe, rewarding, and sustainable working environment for our staff.
We value teamwork and personal development within a supportive environment. You’ll have opportunities to diversify your interests, grow your skill set, and progress your career through the CIEEM levels, supported by extensive training and guidance from in-house specialists. We actively support team members in securing species licences and developing your own specialisms.
About the Role
We are looking for a Consultant/Senior Ecologist to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity to lead on a variety of projects while supporting and developing colleagues, building strong client relationships, and contributing to our growing reputation for high-quality ecological consultancy.
While this role is based in our London office, we welcome applications from candidates across the UK who are interested in working with MKA Ecology, and flexible working arrangements will be considered for the right candidate.
Essential Requirements
- Degree in ecology or a closely related subject
- At least 5 years’ experience in ecology, including project and line management
- Developing field skills in line with the CIEEM Competency Framework
- Strong knowledge of key environmental legislation and policy
- Excellent report writing and IT skills and experience of reviewing reports
- Full, clean driving licence
- CIEEM membership at the appropriate level
- GIS and database management skills
- Experience building client relationships
- Experience with Ecological Impact Assessments
Desirable
- Postgraduate qualification in ecology or related subject
- Protected species licences (bats, GCN, etc.)
- Specialism in ornithology, bats, or other protected species/groups
- Recent EPS licence holder
- Skills to contribute to our growing habitat creation portfolio
- Experience with Environmental Impact Assessment would be desirable.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary (£36,000–£45,000, dependent on experience)
- Company pension including salary sacrifice pension
- Flexible hours and TOIL
- Hybrid working
- Up to 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Generous training provision
- CIEEM membership fees covered
- Home office equipment
- Sabbatical scheme
- Company sick pay
- Dog-friendly office
- Cycle scheme
- Employee referral scheme
- On-site canteen and kitchen with free tea and coffee
- Use of on-site gym
- Shower facilities
- Attractive office location
- Branded clothing
- Social events throughout the year
- Business mileage at highest rates
How to Apply
Please send your CV and a covering letter to suzette@mkaecology.co.uk.
Successful candidates will be invited for interview. If you would like more information or an informal discussion before applying, please call Suzette on 07923 236771.
No agencies, please.
MKA Ecology is a well-established consultancy with offices in Litlington (Royston), Oxford and London. We are looking for a proactive and organised Project Coordinator Assistant to support our operations team. This is a varied role covering data management, kit coordination, scheduling and general administrative support.
You will be line managed by our Project Coordinator and receive full training on internal systems, including Scoro and SharePoint. Applicants should be confident IT users, strong communicators and able to work both independently and as part of a team. Occasional travel to other offices may be required, so a full UK driving licence is essential.
Key Responsibilities
● Uploading, managing and archiving data
● Supporting project systems and maintaining organised records
● Coordinating kit, ordering supplies and managing stock
● Assisting with scheduling and timetabling
● Providing general administrative support for the Litlington office
● Liaising with external IT support when required
● Completing vehicle checks and maintaining logs
What We Offer
● Competitive salary
● Company pension
● Access to pool car
● Up to 27 days’ annual leave (plus bank holidays)
● Supportive team environment with training and development opportunities
● Company sick pay
● Dog-friendly office
● Cycle scheme
● Employee referral scheme
● Canteen and shower facilities on site
Person Requirements
● Strong organisational and prioritisation skills
● Good IT skills with ability to learn new systems
● Excellent communication and teamwork
● High attention to detail
● Proactive and solution-focused
● Full UK driving licence
● Friendly and personable
● Interest in and a working knowledge of UK ecology and biodiversity
How to Apply
Please send your CV and a covering letter to suzette@mkaecology.co.uk.
Please confirm in your application:
● That you hold a full UK driving licence
● That you can commute to the Litlington (Royston) office
● Your availability for interview
Swansea Council is seeking to recruit a qualified and experienced ecologist to help fulfil the ecological planning function within the Council. The Post is full time and permanent.
Salary: £40,777 – £45,091 per year
Closing date: 11.45pm, 2 February 2026
Swansea is one of the most ecologically rich and diverse counties in the UK with over 50% of the county’s area being of significant biodiversity value. Its unique variety of habitats and species and wonderful range of parks, greenspaces, nature reserves, beaches and landscapes need to be maintained, enhanced and sustainably managed for the benefit of people and wildlife now and into the future.
Swansea Council is seeking a motivated, experienced Planning Ecologist to join our Nature Recovery Team within the Natural Environment Section. You will work with colleagues across the Council as well as external stakeholders to promote nature recovery and help deliver development that provides a net benefit for biodiversity.
You will be expected to provide clear, practical ecological advice on planning applications, development proposals, planning policy, appeals and at public inquiries.
Your role will also involve coordinating biodiversity surveys and datasets, contributing to relevant plans, policies and strategies, and championing best practice across the Council and with external stakeholders. You will also support the work of the wider Nature Recovery Team where appropriate.
Required experience and skills
A relevant degree (or equivalent) as well as CIEEM membership (or working towards). You will also have a postgraduate qualification and/or relevant experience.
Strong ecological survey skills (e.g. Phase 1/UKHab, NVC, protected species) and a sound knowledge of legislation and policy.
You will ideally have a Natural Resources Wales bat survey licence (or be working towards one). Additional protected species licences would be an advantage.
Excellent communication skills and the ability to produce high‑quality, succinct technical reports. You’ll be diligent, professional and enthusiastic, with excellent time management skills.
For further information contact:
Deb Hill: Deborah.Hill@swansea.gov.uk Tel: 07967 138016
Kathryn Mach: Kathryn.Mach@swansea.gov.uk Tel: 07814105535
Provisional interview dates: Week commencing 16 February 2026
Safeguarding
Within Swansea Council there is a “Safeguarding is Everybody’s Business” principle, and this applies to all Swansea Council employees, elected members, volunteers and contractors. Further details can be found at https://www.swansea.gov.uk/corporatesafeguarding
Ecologist
Location: Office / Hybrid / Remote (Ireland)
The Role
Entrust is a well-established planning and environmental consultancy founded in 2008, specialising in infrastructure projects across renewable energy, wireless telecommunications, and wider environmental services. We operate across Ireland and the UK, with offices in Galway and Liverpool.
We are seeking an Ecologist to join our team to support our environmental consultancy needs. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated and diligent individual to play a meaningful role in the building of an ecology department.
The ideal candidate will work closely with our Head of Ecology and wider team to ensure consistent, effective delivery of ecology services across all projects. Previous field experience in conducting surveys for protected species (e.g. bats, birds, mammals) and habitats in Ireland or the UK, and strong species identification skills are essential.
Working arrangements are flexible; the role is based in Ireland, with the opportunity to work on some UK-based projects. Full-time is preferable. Hybrid or remote work may be considered, depending on experience and personal circumstances.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support the delivery of ecology services, including survey work and data collection.
- Preparation of ecology assessment reports such as Appropriate Assessment screenings and Natura Impact Statements, Ecological Impact Assessments, and Biodiversity Management Plans.
- Delivery of project updates to clients and competent authorities.
- Assist with ecology department formation and database building.
Qualifications and Experience
The ideal candidate will have:
- A relevant qualification in Ecology or a related field.
- Membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM)
- 2+ years of professional consultancy experience
- Ability to conduct a range of ecology surveys such as habitat surveys, bat surveys, bird surveys, and multidisciplinary walkover surveys.
- Strong data collection and species identification skills (terrestrial).
- Good analytical skills and confidence with digital tools (e.g. Excel, qGIS, Field Maps).
- Excellent writing and communication skills.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work well independently and collaboratively within a team.
How to Apply:
If you’re interested in this role, please forward your up-to-date CV and cover letter to sorcha@entrust-services.com.
Kent has a rich and diverse biodiversity. The wide range of species, and the habitats they rely on, contributes considerably to the county’s economy and the quality of life of those living, working and visiting Kent. Over the coming years, the conservation and enhancement of this valuable natural heritage faces significant challenges from growth, changes to land management and use, and the impacts of climate change.
Our Biodiversity Officers help the County Council, and Kent’s districts planning authorities, address these challenges by providing specialist ecological advice across a range of functions, particularly development management and forward planning. It is the Officer’s role to ensure that Kent’s biodiversity is effectively protected, managed and enhanced through the county’s planning systems.
As our Ecological Advice Service develops we have an opportunity to join our dedicated team. We are looking for a professional that has a relevant qualification to degree level; and a detailed working knowledge of wildlife and the relevant legislation and policy in place to protect and enhance it. Individuals should have experience of providing high quality, clear and coherent ecological advice, particularly within planning, with strong collaborative working and influencing skills.
Please use the reasons for applying section within the job application to demonstrate your skills and experience relevant to the person specification for the post; applications will be assessed against this.
Closing date for applications is 10 February with interviews expected to be held on 23 and 24 February 2026.
Contact Details
For more information about all positions, telephone Helen Forster 03000413374 or email helen.forster@kent.gov.uk.
About the Company
Work that works for you and us – let’s talk flexibility!
KCC is committed to building a workforce which reflects the diversity of the county’s working residents, encouraging applications from people of all ages, abilities, genders, sexual orientations, ethnic backgrounds, faiths and those with caring responsibilities, and aspires to create an inclusive workplace where everyone can be themselves at work.
Please note – if you are interested, please apply soon as possible as the closing date for this advert may be earlier than stated should a number of suitably qualified candidates apply.
We have a post for an Ecologist to join our expanding team, starting April 2026. The role will include:
- Full-time based in our garden office in Little Bookham, near Leatherhead.
- You will need a full driver’s licence and your own car.
- Project management (small to medium sized projects), helping to provide our clients with careful, considered advice.
- Leading dusk emergence surveys (maximum 2 per week).
- Leading Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Preliminary Roost Assessments, and protected species surveys.
- Preparing ecology reports, bat sound analysis and reviewing night-vision camera footage.
- Biodiversity Net Gain Assessments, including Habitat Condition Assessments and high-level use of QGIS.
We have quite a few dogs that join us in our newly renovated garden, summerhouse office, as well as a very cuddly cat, so love of animals is important!
As a Registered Practice, we pride ourselves on our ethos of support, education, and kindness. We are looking for someone who can help support our Assistant and Seasonal Ecologists and who can work closely with our small team.
It’s best if you live fairly near to us (ideally within 45 minutes’ drive), otherwise you will have long drives to and from site and the office, as well as long late-night drives after dusk emergence surveys.
We have three company vehicles for everyone’s use.
Most of our projects are local, but some are based further afield, so some flexibility with longer journeys and overnight stays would be required.
Our normal day is from 9am to 5pm, although we offer flexible working hours, particularly in relation to dusk emergence surveys.
We offer TOIL for all hours worked over 7.5 hours per day.
We offer 25 days leave per annum (excluding bank holidays). We also offer mental health days.
There is flexibility with days working from home.
We offer unlimited training budgets, an additional day’s leave for birthdays and other benefits.
Salary is £35-£38k per annum, depending on experience. We are looking for someone with at least 3 or 4 years’ experience of working in a consultancy. Applicants will need to be a member of CIEEM and have a relevant degree.
Applicants will be invited for an informal chat at our office.
To apply, please get in touch with Sarah at sarahlyne@alyneecology.co.uk. Please send your CV and a few paragraphs about why you think you would be a good match for us.
We have a post for a Seasonal Ecologist to join our expanding team, starting April 2026. The role will include:
- Full-time based in our garden office in Little Bookham, near Leatherhead.
- You will need a full driver’s licence and your own car.
- Assisting with dusk emergence surveys (maximum 3 per week).
- Assisting with Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Preliminary Roost Assessments, and protected species surveys.
- Assisting with the preparation of ecology reports, bat sound analysis and reviewing night-vision camera footage.
- Proficient use of QGIS.
We will provide full training, although some experience would be ideal.
We have quite a few dogs that join us in our newly renovated garden, summerhouse office, as well as a very cuddly cat, so love of animals is important!
As a Registered Practice, we pride ourselves on our ethos of support, education, and kindness. We are looking for someone who can work closely with our small team.
It’s best if you live fairly near to us (ideally within 45 minutes’ drive), otherwise you will have long drives to and from site and the office, as well as long late-night drives after dusk emergence surveys.
We have three company vehicles for everyone’s use.
Most of our projects are local, but some are based further afield, so some flexibility with longer journeys and overnight stays would be required.
Our normal day is from 9am to 5pm, although we offer flexible working hours, particularly in relation to dusk emergence surveys.
We offer TOIL for all hours worked over 7.5 hours per day.
We offer 25 days leave per annum (excluding bank holidays). We also offer mental health days.
There is flexibility with days working from home.
We offer unlimited training budgets, an additional day’s leave for birthdays and other benefits.
Salary is £27K per annum (pro rata). We are looking for someone with at least 3 or 4 years’ experience of working in a consultancy. Applicants will need to be at least Student or Qualifying member of CIEEM and have a relevant degree.
Applicants will be invited for an informal chat at our office.
If you would like us to help you get your foot on the ladder, please get in touch with Sarah at sarahlyne@alyneecology.co.uk. Please send your CV and a few paragraphs about why you think you would be a good match for us.
Rural Biodiversity and Conservation Adviser
Ready to make a real impact on the environment?
At The Crown Estate, we’re on a mission to restore habitats, enhance biodiversity and deliver nature recovery projects across 120,000 acres of farmland in England. This is your chance to be part of something bigger—helping shape landscapes for generations to come.
Why join us?
Purpose-driven work: Every project you lead will contribute to nature recovery and to more resilient agricultural landscapes.
Collaborative culture: Work with our tenant farmers, conservation professionals, communities and passionate colleagues.
Professional growth: Access training, industry qualifications and opportunities to lead innovative projects.
Flexibility and wellbeing: We value balance and offer a supportive, inclusive environment.
Impact at scale: Position The Crown Estate as a leader in sustainable land management.
What you’ll do
Develop and deliver a programme of ambitious, practical nature recovery projects in agricultural landscapes.
Work closely with our tenant farmers and managing agents to support their role in nature recovery and facilitate transitions to more sustainable and regenerative food production systems.
Ensure The Crown Estate fulfils its statutory duties as a public body, particularly with regard to Protected Sites and contributes towards national commitments such as Environment Act Habitat Targets and ’30 by 30’.
Measure progress and showcase impactful outcomes.
Could this be you?
Are you experienced in farmland conservation with a deep knowledge of farmland ecology? Can you successfully manage multiple and sometimes complex projects within a high performance environment? If you’re ready to bring your expertise and enthusiasm to a role where you can make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply today and help us lead the way in biodiversity and conservation.
We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities. The Crown Estate is committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. If you’re passionate about conservation and want to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.
Our Offering / benefits:
As well as a competitive salary, pension and performance related bonus offering, we have a wealth of benefits available ranging from market leading family policies and shopping discounts in the West End, to private healthcare; life and critical illness cover and 28 days holiday with the option to buy more. We value work life balance and your wellbeing highly, enabling you to be your best self to work.
Disability Disclaimer:
We are a proud disability confident employer and operate the offer of interview scheme Disability Confident employer scheme – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
We are happy to offer alternative application methods or formats and can be flexible on our process to enable you to have the best opportunity.
We are seeking an experienced Senior Field Ecologist for a 1-year contract to lead ground verification of our AI and satellite-powered Biodiversity Net Gain assessments.
This role is perfect for ecologists who are passionate about fieldwork but frustrated by endless desk-based tasks. Your field insights will directly shape how our technology evolves, giving you genuine influence over the future of BNG assessments.
What Makes This Different
Technology Meets Nature: Master BNGAI software and automated reporting while spending most of your time outdoors conducting surveys across the UK’s diverse landscapes.
Future-Proof Your Career: Build expertise in AI-powered ecological assessment—a skillset becoming increasingly valuable as the industry evolves.
Senior Influence: Work with our solutions ecology team to improve methodologies, validate AI outputs, and contribute to product development.
Maximum Autonomy: Manage your own survey schedule and travel with complete expenses coverage and trust in your professional judgment.
How You’ll Make an Impact
Lead field verification surveys using our BNGAI Ground Survey app to validate AI-powered assessments. Provide senior-level QA on automated BNG Baseline reports and work directly with customers. Collaborate with our team to refine validation protocols based on field observations. Mentor other field ecologists and autonomously manage complex survey schedules. Act as the bridge between field reality and technology development, ensuring AI outputs meet professional standards.
Essential Requirements
- Chartered or full CIEEM membership
- Degree in ecology or environmental science
- Valid UK driving license
- 5+ years ecological fieldwork experience, ideally with developers/corporates
- Extensive BNG assessment and ground verification experience
- Expert knowledge of UK habitat classification (Phase 1, UKHab, NVC)
- Deep understanding of BNG metrics and statutory requirements
- Proven track record producing high-quality ecological reports
- Comfortable adopting field-based technology
- Independent survey delivery with excellent time management
- Strong health and safety awareness
The Right Mindset
Genuine enthusiasm for technology and innovation in ecological practice. Intellectual curiosity about how AI can enhance field ecology. Collaborative with technical teams. Adaptable to new tools and processes. Passionate about outdoor work while embracing modern solutions to administrative challenges.
Desirable: Field ID Skills Certificate Level 4, GIS experience, first aid training, mentoring experience.
This is a contractor position requiring self-employed/limited company status. You’ll be responsible for your own tax and NI contributions. Expenses paid for all field surveys.
The Role
We are seeking a motivated Field Ecologist for a 1-year contract to conduct ground verification of our AI and satellite-powered Biodiversity Net Gain assessments.
If you love being an ecologist but dislike the endless admin, this role offers the perfect combination. Our AI and satellite technology handles habitat mapping, metric calculations, and report generation automatically, freeing you to focus on what you’re passionate about: fieldwork, species identification, and habitat assessment.
You’ll also work closely with our Solutions Ecology team, contributing field insights that directly improve our processes and product. This exposure to how technology is built gives you a competitive advantage as the ecology profession increasingly adopts AI-powered solutions.
How you’ll make an impact:
- Conduct field-based verification surveys across UK using our BNGAI Ground Survey app to validate AI and satellite-powered biodiversity assessments
- Support finalisation of BNG Baseline reports based on ground survey data collected through our automated systems
- Work autonomously to manage your survey schedule and travel arrangements
- Collaborate with our Solutions Ecology team to improve our technology based on your field observations
- During periods of reduced survey requirements, support customer inquiries and ecology-related tasks remotely
- Contribute practical field insights that enhance our product capabilities and assessment methodologies
- Apply your ecological knowledge to help validate and refine AI-generated habitat classifications
What we’re looking for:
Professional Credentials
- Degree in ecology, environmental science, or related field
- Associate or full member status with CIEEM (Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management)
- Valid UK driving license
Technical Skills
- Demonstrated experience conducting Biodiversity Net Gain assessments or ground verification work
- Ability to work with end customers
- Solid knowledge of UK habitat classification systems
- Understanding of BNG metrics and calculations
Field Experience
- Proven ability to conduct ecological surveys independently
- Strong time management and self-organisation skills
- Health and safety awareness in field environments
- Comfortable working outdoors in variable British weather conditions
Mindset & Approach
- Enthusiasm for technology and innovation in ecological practice
- Willingness to learn new tools and adapt to modern assessment approaches
- Any experience with GIS or digital mapping tools
Desirable Qualifications
- Field Identification Skills Certificate level 4 or equivalent
- Experience providing habitat surveys specifically for BNG purposes
- Knowledge of NVC (National Vegetation Classification)
- Current first aid training
Practical Requirements
- Willingness to travel for field surveys (expenses paid)
This is a contractor position. Successful candidate must operate as self-employed/limited company and will be responsible for their own tax and National Insurance contributions.