Assistant Ecologist

Assistant Ecologist - Winchester

An established, multi-disciplinary environmental and planning consultancy is seeking an Assistant Ecologist to join its growing ecology team based in Winchester, Hampshire. This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career ecologist to develop technical skills while working alongside experienced professionals on a diverse portfolio of projects across the UK.

The successful candidate will support the delivery of ecological services across a wide range of sectors including residential, commercial, infrastructure, and land development. Working as part of a collaborative team, the Assistant Ecologist will gain hands-on experience in field surveys, report writing, and project support while building knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and planning policy.

Benefits;

Competitive salary depending on experience.

Generous annual leave allowance plus bank holidays.

Pension contribution.

Paid professional membership fees (e.g. CIEEM).

Ongoing training and mentoring from experienced ecologists.

Support towards protected species survey licences.

Opportunities for career progression within a growing consultancy.

Flexible working arrangements where possible.

Fieldwork expenses covered.

Key responsibilities will include;

Assisting with ecological field surveys such as Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), habitat surveys, and protected species surveys.

Supporting senior ecologists with data collection, analysis, and ecological reporting.

Contributing to Ecological Impact Assessments and other technical reports.

Assisting with biodiversity net gain assessments and habitat mapping.

Supporting project management tasks including data management and coordination of survey programmes.

Maintaining awareness of relevant wildlife legislation, planning policy, and best practice guidance.

Applicants should ideally have;

A degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline.

Some experience of ecological survey work (through employment, placements, or volunteering).

Basic knowledge of UK habitats, protected species, and relevant legislation.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

A proactive attitude and willingness to learn from experienced colleagues.

A full UK driving licence (or working towards obtaining one).

The successful candidate will join a supportive consultancy environment where professional development is encouraged. Opportunities will include mentoring from experienced ecologists, exposure to a wide variety of projects, and support towards professional membership and protected species survey licences. The role offers a competitive salary, benefits package, and the chance to develop a rewarding career within a respected environmental consultancy.

Interested in hearing more about the role? Please contact Ashleigh Garner from Penguin Recruitment for more information