We are looking for an experienced Senior Ecologist with particular interest and experience in Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) and Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA). The post is required to support a growing ecological consultancy practice, with projects throughout the UK and occasionally beyond, and has scope to develop a wide range of future opportunities.
This role will suit a self-starter, who enjoys a fast-paced and challenging environment, and is looking for a career opportunity to make their mark. You will work in a small, very busy, team supported by the wider business and knowledgeable leadership. You should enjoy a mix of team working and autonomy, bring a naturally strong communication style, sound understanding of ecological impact assessment, and a close attention to detail. Whilst fieldwork skills are needed for this role, there will be a large component of office-based coordination, data analysis, client contact and report writing.
The role will involve:
- Project management and implementation of ecological assessments, plus the coordination of associated surveys, consultation, mitigation in support of clients’ proposals and operations;
- The production of high quality reports, including EcIAs, HRAs, Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Species Reports and ecological input to Environmental Statements;
- Apply for and oversee protected species licences for your areas of expertise;
- Liaise with clients and prepare fee proposals;
- Managing the technical work of more junior staff and sub-consultants and (depending on experience) may involve project management or direction.
Your experience must include:
- A first degree in a relevant subject, such as ecology or other biological sciences, and ideally a relevant postgraduate qualification.
- Full membership of CIEEM.
- Relevant experience in EcIA, preferably in support of EIA.
- Relevant experience of HRA
- Experience of planning and conducting ecological surveys, including Phase 1 habitat survey and protected species surveys and providing mitigation recommendations.
- At least one protected species survey licence.
- Experience of applying for and holding licenses for protected species mitigation/conservation would be an advantage.
- Excellent report writing skills, including survey reports and Environmental Statement chapters
- A good understanding of wildlife legislation, the planning process, EIA and Habitats Regulations Assessment.
- A track-record of successful project management.
- Experience in the preparation of ecology proposals and tenders.
- Experience of ecological assessment for the water sector would be an advantage.
- Eligibility to work in UK.
A full UK driver’s license would also be an advantage.
