Freelance Ecologist

Irwin & Colton Limited; England; Remote; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consultancy is seeking a Freelance Ecologist for a 3-6 month contract, primarily remote with occasional site visits. The role involves leading ecological surveys, contributing to impact assessments, and collaborating with clients on ecological considerations in various sectors. Candidates should have a relevant degree and experience in ecological assessments.

Qualifications

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field required.
• Experience in ecological surveys and impact assessments is essential.
• Knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and ecological best practices preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support ecological surveys and related reporting.
• Contribute to Ecological Impact Assessments and BNG strategies.
• Collaborate with clients to integrate ecological considerations into projects.

Skills

Ecological surveys

Impact assessments

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) planning

GIS tools

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or Conservation Biology

Relevant qualifications such as CIEEM membership

Job description

Freelance Ecologist
Contract Duration: 3-6 months, with potential for extension
Location: UK-based, remote working with occasional site visits
Rate: ~ £400 per day (dependent on experience), Outside IR35

Are you a Biodiversity or Ecology specialist with experience delivering fieldwork, impact assessments, and project advice across infrastructure or industrial sectors?

We're supporting a leading consultancy in their search for a Freelance Ecologist to assist with upcoming survey and advisory work during a peak period. The organisation works across a broad client base within infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing sectors, with a reputation for delivering complex, large-scale environmental projects.

This is primarily a remote role with occasional travel for site surveys and meetings.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leading and supporting ecological surveys (e.g., Phase 1, protected species, habitat assessments) and related reporting
2. Contributing to Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA) and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) strategies for UK projects
3. Collaborating with clients and project teams to incorporate ecological considerations into planning and construction
4. Liaising with stakeholders, local authorities, and regulators regarding project impacts and mitigation
5. Utilizing GIS tools and survey data to produce accurate ecological maps and records

Candidate Requirements:

1. A degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Conservation Biology, or a related field
2. Experience in ecological surveys, impact assessments, or BNG planning
3. Knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and ecological best practices
4. A pragmatic, solution-oriented approach balancing conservation and development
5. Preferred: Relevant qualifications such as CIEEM membership or protected species licenses

For more details or to discuss this opportunity, contact Tom Hewat at 01923 432 637 referencing Job ID: TH3761.

Irwin and Colton are a specialist Environment, Health, and Safety recruitment firm based in South East England, recruiting across the UK. We cover roles from Environment, Health and Safety Managers to Advisors.

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