Lead Ecologist - Bat Licence | National Surveys

Kate on Conservation; Norwich; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

SOCOTEC is seeking an experienced Ecologist to lead technically challenging projects across the UK. The role requires autonomous project ownership, mentorship to junior staff, and extensive ecological consultancy experience across infrastructure, utilities, development and conservation sectors.

You will lead diverse surveys (bats, birds, reptiles, great crested newts, dormice, badgers and more) and contribute to business growth, tendering, and client liaison while maintaining high safety and

Qualifications

• Hold a Natural England Level 2 Class Licence with demonstrable experience of independently leading bat survey programmes and contributing to mitigation licensing.
• Hold full membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM).
• Proven experience in leading ecological surveys and assessments.
• Ability to manage projects independently with minimal supervision, delivering on time and to a high standard of quality and safety.
• Strong technical report writing and communication skills.
• Capable of contributing to proposals, tenders and other business operations.
• Ability to manage workload to meet operational and financial targets.
• Commitment to CPD for business growth.
• Excellent planning and organisational skills.
• Understanding of quality and financial systems and compliance.
• Ability to maintain safety and survey equipment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct a wide range of ecological surveys across multiple species.
• Independently undertake bat surveys using Level 2 licence and apply for mitigation licences.
• Prepare and deliver Preliminary Ecological Appraisals and Biodiversity Net Gain Assessments.
• Produce comprehensive ecological survey reports and technical assessments to professional standards.
• Lead fieldwork operations with accurate data collection and detailed notes.
• Undertake out-of-hours surveys and protected species survey work.
• Manage complex ecological projects from inception to completion.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior team members.
• Maintain data records in line with industry standards.
• Take full responsibility for project deadlines and quality.
• Contribute to tender preparation and client liaison.
• Support related environmental works such as soil and groundwater monitoring.

Skills

Bat licence Level 2

Project management

Technical report writing

Mentorship

Independent fieldwork

Client liaison

Education

CIEEM membership

Job description

SOCOTEC is seeking an experienced Ecologist to lead technically challenging projects across the UK. The role requires autonomous project ownership, mentorship to junior staff, and extensive ecological consultancy experience across infrastructure, utilities, development and conservation sectors.

You will lead diverse surveys (bats, birds, reptiles, great crested newts, dormice, badgers and more) and contribute to business growth, tendering, and client liaison while maintaining high safety and