Ecologist - Canal and River Trust

Canal and River Trust; East Midlands; Remote; GBP 33,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading charity focused on waterways is seeking an Ecologist to join their North West Environment team. This role involves providing ecological expertise, conducting habitat surveys, and promoting conservation efforts across the region. The successful candidate will work collaboratively to enhance the natural environment and engage with local communities, making a significant impact on nature recovery.

Benefits

Ongoing development opportunities

Employee benefits

Qualifications

• Proven experience in applying ecological knowledge professionally.
• Knowledge of UK & European environmental policies.
• Experience with habitat and protected species surveys desirable.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical expertise in ecology for the North West region.
• Conduct habitat surveys and create improvement plans.
• Lead volunteer groups and promote engagement with stakeholders.

Skills

Ecological knowledge

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Education

Degree in ecology or related field

Tools

GIS

Job description

Job ID: 2025-8030
Closing Date: 08/06/2025
Position Type: Permanent FT
Advertised Salary: £33,977 + £390 per month Car Cash Allowance.
Base Location: Home-based with North West Hub.

We're the charity who look after and bring to life 2,000 miles of waterways across England and Wales, because we believe that life is better by water. Every role across the Trust plays its part in transforming our canals and rivers into spaces where local people want to spend time and feel better, bringing wellbeing benefits to millions.

We currently have an opportunity for an experienced Ecologist to join our North West Environment team within the Operations Directorate. The Ecologist will predominantly cover the North West region.

Are you passionate about ecology and conservation and looking to make a real difference to nature recovery?

The successful candidate will provide the Trust with technical expertise in Ecology, with particular responsibility for a defined geographical area. Working as directed, they will support and deliver the Trust’s protection, improvement and promotion of the natural environment of the waterways and provide professional environmental services within their area of expertise to help achieve a wide range of corporate objectives.

Location

The role will be based working from home, with the allocation of a nearby Hub in the North West for collaborative working. You will attend site visits across the North West region with a focus on the Manchester area.

Knowledge, Skills/Qualifications & Experience

Key ecological accountabilities:

1. Working collaboratively and providing expert technical advice as required to both internal Trust teams and external stakeholders.
2. Contribute to the implementation of relevant Asset Management Strategies (vegetation, dredging, environmental assets) to protect, maintain, and where appropriate, enhance condition of Trust assets and their performance for the customer.
3. Carry out habitat surveys to inform works to Trust assets.
4. Deliver awareness training, toolbox talks and facilitate practical training for Trust colleagues, contractors, volunteers and stakeholder groups.
5. Create habitat improvement plans, method statements and risk assessments to inform how works will be delivered.
6. Implement relevant inspection/monitoring and maintenance programmes for environmental/soft estate assets within their geographical remit.
7. Lead volunteer groups and/or work with Trust volunteer leaders in delivery of objectives. Ensure an engaging experience for participants.
8. Contribute to national and local programmes of engagement with customers, volunteers, stakeholders and the public to promote waterways and the Trust’s work, increasing reputation and securing resources, focusing on environmental priorities.
9. Support citizen science surveys on our canal network, e.g., for otters and water voles.
10. Adhere to UK statutory environmental policies and Trust procedures.

Other accountabilities:

• Work safely, ensuring the safety of others and contributing to safe working practices.
• Display Trust values and behaviours at all times.
• Promote diversity and inclusion within all aspects of Trust life.
• Follow Health & Safety policies, report incidents, and ensure appropriate use of PPE and equipment.
• Be aware of safeguarding responsibilities and support safe environments for vulnerable groups.

About you

Technical:

• Hold a degree in ecology or related field.
• Proven experience in applying specialist ecological knowledge in a professional setting.
• Ability to influence and negotiate effectively.
• Knowledge of UK & European environmental policies and regulations.
• Experience with habitat surveys and protected species surveys (desirable).
• Membership of CIEEM (desirable).
• Knowledge of GIS (desirable).
• Qualifications in Arboriculture or a bat licence (desirable).

General:

• Passionate about nature recovery.
• Proven commitment to professional development.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills.
• Reliable, flexible, and self-motivated.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.
• Good problem-solving skills.
• Full UK driving license and access to a personal vehicle.

If you have questions about the role, contact [e-mail].

We value diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds. We support part-time and job share applications. We also offer ongoing development opportunities and a range of employee benefits.