Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Assistant / Ecologist

TN United Kingdom; Dorking; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in biodiversity is seeking a BNG Assistant/Ecologist in Dorking. The role involves supporting ecologists, advising clients on biodiversity projects, and collaborating with various stakeholders. Candidates should have a degree in Ecology and proficiency in GIS. Opportunities for professional development and flexible working hours are offered.

Benefits

Flexible working hours

Pension scheme

25 days' holiday

BUPA health scheme

Social events

Qualifications

• Degree level or equivalent qualification in Environment/Ecology required.
• Experience with DEFRA BNG metrics and GIS programmes is essential.

Responsibilities

• Produce BNG assessments and undertake biodiversity metric calculations.
• Assist in developing biodiversity strategies for landowners and developers.
• Report writing and GIS mapping using QGIS.

Skills

Critical thinking

Ecological knowledge

Solution-focused

Knowledge of DEFRA BNG metrics

GIS proficiency

Microsoft Office

Education

Degree in Environment/Ecology

Tools

QGIS

Job description

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Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Assistant / Ecologist, Dorking

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Client:

FPCR

Location:

Dorking, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Reference:

616b1180cc8a

Job Views:

3

Posted:

17.05.2025

Expiry Date:

01.07.2025

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Job Description:

Are you passionate about biodiversity and ready to take your career to the next level? We’re looking for a driven BNG Specialist to join our growing team! In this role, you'll support our Dorking-based ecologists while also advising a diverse range of clients, including developers, landowners, and farmers, helping them successfully deliver BNG projects that contribute to both development and nature’s recovery. While your primary focus will be the South East, you’ll also have opportunities to collaborate with our wider ecological teams across the UK.

At FPCR, we’ve been pioneers in Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) since 2012. Our team has played a key role in shaping the industry, from developing BNG metrics (2.0, 3.0, and 4.0) to leading the creation of the Small Sites Metric and designing Natural England’s BNG GIS templates.

What will you be doing?

• Helping to produce BNG assessments by supporting UKHab surveys and undertaking biodiversity metric calculations to successfully support developers in delivering BNG and landowners wishing to create BNG habitat banks.
• Assisting in developing biodiversity strategies for landowners and developers including input into BNG on-site and off-site habitat designs.
• Report writing, including BNG feasibility assessments, BNG reports, input into Preliminary Ecological Appraisals and habitat sections of EcIAs.
• GIS mapping using QGIS.
• Helping to draft Habitat Management and Monitoring Plans (HMMPs) for a range of project types and sizes.
• Preparation of Biodiversity Gain Plans and other associated documents.
• Liaison with various stakeholders including developers, local authorities, landowners, environmental NGO’s.
• Providing support for Dorking ecologists, landscapers and QGIS technicians.
• Land management advice, habitat restoration advice, overseeing habitat creation projects.
• Development and input into projects as opportunities arise.

What are we looking for?

Required skills and experiences include:

• Degree level or equivalent academic qualification in Environment/Ecology or related field.
• Critical thinking and the ability to apply ecological knowledge to achieve positive outcomes for both nature and people.
• Ability to work autonomously and be solution-focused.
• Knowledge, understanding and experience of using DEFRA BNG metrics, particularly the Statutory metric.
• Proficient in the use of GIS programmes (preferably QGIS or aptitude to learn).
• The degree of experience will determine the position level.
• Competency in Microsoft Office software.
• A full, clean UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.

Desirable skills of interest include:

• Botanical survey experience – FISC 3+ equivalent botanical expertise across a range of habitat types.
• Membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM), eligibility for membership or other similar.
• Knowledge of the planning system with regards to BNG – including NPPF and PPG.

Why FPCR?

FPCR Environment and Design Ltd is one of the UK’s leading integrated design practices working extensively throughout the UK. Over the last 60 years, the practice has developed a valuable mix of multi-disciplinary expertise in master planning, environmental assessment, urban design, landscape, ecology, architecture, arboriculture and green infrastructure.

Working together, we have implemented many award-winning schemes in environmentally sensitive locations. At the start of 2021, FPCR became an Employee-Owned business, sharing in the future growth and success of the business. Our Dorking office has been operating for over 12 years, expanding from three ecologists to a team of twenty ecologists, four landscape architects, and a QGIS team. The office’s location offers unique opportunities to explore local flora and fauna.

What you can expect in return:

• Salary: £24.5k to £32k+ depending on experience.
• Opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement.
• Flexible working hours with a 35-hour week, time off in lieu, and a holiday purchase system.
• Benefits include pension scheme, 25 days' holiday, holiday purchase system, BUPA health scheme, and social events.

If you believe you are the right candidate or can offer relevant experience and skills, please submit your CV, cover letter, and supporting documents. Candidates must have the right to work in the UK.