Ecologist

Defence iQ; Salisbury; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in conservation is seeking an experienced Ecologist for an initial 3-month contract in Wiltshire. The role involves managing significant ecological sites, ensuring compliance with environmental legislation, and contributing to conservation projects. Ideal candidates will have a degree in Ecology and practical experience in land management. This position offers a competitive day rate and the chance to make a meaningful impact on biodiversity and habitat preservation.

Qualifications

• Practical experience managing SSSI, SPA, and SAC sites.
• In-depth knowledge of Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and related legislation.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of the Rural Estates Ecology Plan.
• Manage the Stone Curlew Conservation Project.
• Produce ecological reports to support operations.

Skills

Ecological Land Management

Interpersonal Skills

Customer-Focused Approach

Education

Degree in Ecology

Tools

Microsoft Office

Ecological Data Systems

Job description

Location: Wiltshire

Type: Initial 3 Month Contract

Competitive day rate inside IR35

Are you passionate about conservation and land management? We are seeking an experienced Ecologist to take a leading role in the management and protection of a nationally significant ecological site within a rural estate in Wiltshire. This is a unique opportunity to contribute directly to the preservation of protected species and habitats, ensuring legal compliance while supporting vital land use operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of the Rural Estates Ecology Plan.
• Manage and deliver the objectives of the Stone Curlew Conservation Project, ensuring protection of this Schedule 1 species and maintaining mandated breeding numbers.
• Oversee conservation compliance across designated SSSI, SPA, and SAC sites, ensuring favourable conditions are maintained in accordance with national legislation.
• Liaise with statutory bodies, including Natural England and the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), ensuring clear communication and compliance.
• Produce ecological reports and provide expert advice to support operations and infrastructure development across the estate.
• Maintain ecological datasets and systems, including management of Recorder 2006 and periodic review of Business and Ecological Plans (BEPs).
• Act as Site Manager for the Environmental Change Network Project, coordinating associated tasks and reporting.
• Support Habitat Regulation Assessments, Sustainability Appraisals, and conservation risk assessments for both internal teams and external contractors.
• Contribute to internal and external communications in line with policy regarding ecological matters.
• Monitor and maintain the integrity of archaeological areas within the estate.
  
  

Essential Requirements

• Degree (or equivalent) in Ecology or a related environmental discipline.
• Practical experience of managing SSSI, SPA, and SAC sites to maintain favourable status.
• In-depth knowledge of relevant legislation, including:
• Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
• Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017
• Environment Act 2021
• Proven experience in ecological land management and rural conservation best practice.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build collaborative relationships with a range of stakeholders.
• A customer-focused approach with the ability to coordinate activities across multi-disciplinary teams.
• Understanding of MOD land use protocols is highly beneficial.
  

Desirable

• City & Guilds (or equivalent) in Agricultural, Forestry or Land Management.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ecological data systems