Forestry Ecologist

The Royal Forestry Society; England; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading forestry and timber company in the UK is seeking an experienced Forestry Ecologist to lead ecological projects across Hampshire or Cumbria. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in ecology and environmental legislation and be skilled in client relationship management. This role offers opportunities for professional development and the chance to work on diverse projects while maintaining high environmental standards.

Qualifications

• Proven track record as an Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW).
• Experience with ecological surveys across various habitats.
• Strong understanding of UK environmental legislation.

Responsibilities

• Represent and promote environmental standards across projects.
• Prepare and deliver tailored ecological services.
• Undertake Ecological Clerk of Works duties and manage ecological licenses.
• Analyze ecological data, prepare technical reports, and provide expert advice.
• Support business development and mentor colleagues.

Skills

Ecological expertise

Strong communication skills

Organisational skills

Client relationship management

Fieldwork capability

Education

Qualification in ecology, environmental science, or related field

Tools

GIS tools (e.g., QGIS)

Microsoft 365

Job description

The Opportunity

Join a team where your ecological expertise directly shapes sustainable forestry practices and creates lasting environmental impact across Hampshire or Cumbria.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Forestry Ecologist to join a forward-thinking team and take a key role in leading ecological projects across Hampshire or Cumbria, whilst delivering expert advice to both internal and external stakeholders on all ecological matters. This role offers the chance to represent and promote high environmental standards, deliver ecological services aligned with customer needs, and contribute to business development within an established organisation. The position requires proven expertise in ecology, environmental legislation, and practical field experience, as well as strong communication, organisational, and client relationship management skills. This role offers excellent professional development opportunities and the flexibility to work across various project types, enabling you to balance fieldwork with technical report preparation and stakeholder engagement.

The Company

Cultura Connect Forestry is a well-established forestry and timber business in the UK that provides an unparalleled standard of service and expertise to a variety of clients. A wealth of expertise and experience within the organisation enables the company to deliver the highest level of service and financial return to clients across the UK.

The Role

• To represent and promote the company's environmental standards across projects, while ensuring compliance with legislation, policies, and best practices
• To prepare and deliver ecological services tailored to client needs and company objectives, including surveys, assessments (PEAs, EcIAs, HRAs), and management plans
• To undertake Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) duties and manage applications for ecological and protected species licences, ensuring high-quality and timely outcomes
• To analyse and interpret ecological survey data, prepare technical reports, and provide expert advice to stakeholders, colleagues, and clients
• To support business development by identifying opportunities, while mentoring colleagues, and contributing to the growth of the ecology team

Essential Skills

• A qualification in ecology, environmental science, land use, or other related field
• A proven track record as an Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW), with experience in coordinating and delivering ecological surveys across habitats, protected species, birds, and reptiles
• Membership of CIEEM (or working towards) or equivalent professional body
• A holder of a CSCS card and a current protected species licence
• A strong understanding of UK environmental legislation and policy
• Proficient in producing high-quality reports, such as PEAs and EIAs
• Highly organised with strong communication and interpersonal skills
• A skilled relationship builder with a proven ability to cultivate and maintain strong client relations
• Diligent and self-motivated
• Commercial acumen and strong business development skills
• Confident using GIS tools (e.g., QGIS), mobile data apps, and Microsoft 365
• UK driving license and open to travel

To Apply

Please email Isabel with your CV and Cover letter on [e-mail]