Ecologist

Anderselite; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A respected ecological consultancy is seeking an Ecologist for a permanent position based in Bath. The role involves planning field surveys, drafting ecological reports, and assisting with biodiversity enhancement strategies. Ideal candidates will hold a BSc or MSc in Ecology, possess 3+ years of experience, and have knowledge of wildlife legislation. The company offers a competitive salary, flexible working arrangements, and a comprehensive benefits package, including training and development opportunities.

Benefits

In-house training

Flexible working options

Paid CPD opportunities

Pension Scheme

Healthcare and Insurance package

Qualifications

• 3+ years of relevant experience required.
• Ability to conduct various protected species surveys.
• CIEEM Associate membership or working towards it is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct ecological field surveys.
• Draft and contribute to high-quality ecological reports.
• Assist in design of ecological enhancements and mitigation strategies.

Skills

Knowledge of wildlife legislation

Good national report writing skills

Good communication skills

GIS skills (QGIS)

Flexibility

Education

BSc or MSc in Ecology or Environmental Science

Job description

About MorsonEdge

MorsonEdge are currently working with an established and respected consultancy with complementary expertise in ecology, landscape architecture and visualisation based in Bath. They take a collaborative approach to their work and enjoy working on projects ranging from local and small scale to large, multi‑phased schemes. Their highly regarded ecologists provide the full spectrum of ecological services whilst maintaining excellent professional standards together with a high degree of scientific integrity. They have a wide variety of exciting and challenging projects and an established client base.

Position

Ecologist (Professional) – Permanent position based in the Bath office. Competitive salary dependent on experience, plus excellent training and benefits.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct field surveys on straightforward sites, including extended habitat surveys for Preliminary Ec Additional Appraisals (PEA) and protected species surveys such as bat, badger, reptiles, great crested newt, hazel dormouse (skills/licence dependent).
• Draft and contribute to high‑quality ecological reports, developing skills in ecological assessment with support from experienced colleagues.
• Support mapping, Biodiversity Net Gain calculations and data analysis.
• Assist in preparation of mitigation strategies and development licence applications for Protected Species.
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• Assist in design of ecological enhancements, Biodiversity Net Gain proposals and production of habitat management plans.
• Liaise effectively with colleagues, clients, regulators and stakeholders.

Qualifications & Experience

• BSc or MSc in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related field.
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• 3+ years of relevant experience.
• Knowledge of wildlife legislation, best‑practice survey and mitigation guidance.
• Experience of carrying out protected species surveys, including bat surveys. Protected species licences, especially bats, are desirable but not essential.
• Able to carry out baseline/extended habitat surveys – ideally at least FISC Level 3, with solid habitat assessment knowledge.
• Good national report writing skills.
• Understanding of PEA and BNG workflows; ideally able to carry out assessments with limited guidance at standard sites.
• Good communication skills, keenness to develop, flexibility and ability to collaborate with colleagues of a variety of disciplines.
• Willingness to work flexible hours during survey season, including some evening/night work; a flexible TOIL system is in place.
• Willingness to travel occasionally; a good portion of work is local.
• CIEEM Associate (ACIEEM) membership or working toward it.
• Full UK driving licence and own vehicle.
• Experience of ecological watching briefs and CSCS card is desirable but not essential.
• GIS skills (QGIS) would be beneficial – training will be provided.

Location & Working Pattern

The position would be based in their Bath office. They have a blended working approach which allows home‑ouched flexibility but requires office presence each week. Initial training and introduction to the company and ways of working will be in the office and involve working alongside colleagues. Regular team meetings and site visits are a requirement of the role. They keep a happy office environment in a beautiful rural location close to Bristol and Bath with free on‑site car parking.

Employment Package

Part‑time/flexible working will be considered and can work well in this role. They offer in‑house training so you can build up experience and skills. Competitive rates of pay (reflective of experience/skills, pro‑rata for part‑time). They reimburse business‑related expenses including travel and subsistence. They pay for travel time to site and where agreed and offer paid overtime and TOIL for rest and recovery. Laptop/IT support are provided and a work phone will be provided if required.

Benefits for permanent staff are generous and include an established Pension Scheme, Healthcare and Insurance package, paid CPD opportunities (up to 5 days per year), payment of professional membership fees and support through Professional Training, regular in‑house training. There is an initial 22 days paid annual leave (plus bank holidays), increasing with service. Packages for part‑time roles would be pro‑rata accordingly.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a supportive and collaborative environment with a competitive salary, benefits package and progression.