Senior/Principal Ecologist

Job Description: Ecologist (Senior to Associate Level)

About the Company
This multidisciplinary environmental consultancy is dedicated to providing high-quality ecological services across a diverse range of projects. The company works with clients ranging from house builders to large-scale residential developments and commercial projects. With offices located across the country, the company fosters a supportive and friendly team environment. Flexible working arrangements allow employees to work from home for two days each week, ensuring a great work-life balance.

Role Overview

The Ecologist (Senior to Associate Level) will play a key role in delivering ecological services across various projects. The role involves undertaking extended Phase 1 habitat surveys, UK Habitat Classification System assessments, and protected species surveys, particularly for bats and great crested newts. The Ecologist will also collaborate with the landscape team to develop mitigation proposals and habitat creation schemes to support Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements. This position will contribute to technical reports, BREEAM assessments, BNG assessments, and Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs). The Ecologist will also manage projects under European Protected Species (EPS) licences, making a significant impact on the ecological success of the projects.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and undertake extended Phase 1 habitat surveys and protected species surveys, particularly for bats and great crested newtsContribute to the formulation of mitigation proposals and habitat creation schemesSupervise projects under EPS licences for bats and great crested newtsDeliver technical reports for planning submission and provide input into BREEAM Assessments, BNG Assessments, and EIAsUndertake and manage Biodiversity Net Gain assessments using the DEFRA metric v3.1Prepare Ecological Impact Assessments/Ecology Chapters for use in EIAsCollaborate closely with the landscape team to integrate ecological considerations into broader project designsSupport junior ecologists and assist with their professional development

Qualifications and Experience

Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field, Significant experience in protected species surveys, specifically for bats and great crested newts.  Demonstrated experience with mitigation and successful submission of development licences for protected species.  Experience undertaking Biodiversity Net Gain assessments using DEFRA metric v3.1.  Familiarity with the preparation of Ecological Impact Assessments and Ecology Chapters for EIAsMembership or working towards membership of CIEEM (Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management)Strong technical report writing skills and experience with planning submissions.  A positive, proactive attitude with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.  Full driving licence

Benefits

Flexible and hybrid working hours with the option to work from home for two days each week.  Competitive salary based on experience.  Annual training opportunities to support professional development.  Generous TOIL scheme.  25 days holiday per year (based on full-time working)Annual professional membership subscription to CIEEM.  Workplace pension scheme.  A friendly, supportive, and collaborative office environment

Candidates with the required experience and a passion for environmental conservation are encouraged to apply. Please submit an application, including a CV and cover letter outlining relevant experience and why this role is a good fit.