Senior/Principal Ecologist

Access Talent Group; Harrogate; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate Ecologist at the Senior to Associate Level to deliver high-quality ecological services across diverse projects. This role offers the opportunity to lead habitat surveys, manage protected species projects, and contribute to Biodiversity Net Gain assessments. With a supportive and collaborative work environment, flexible working arrangements, and a commitment to professional development, this position is perfect for those dedicated to environmental conservation. Join a team where your expertise will make a significant impact on ecological success and project outcomes, while enjoying a great work-life balance.

Benefits

Flexible working hours

Annual training opportunities

Generous TOIL scheme

25 days holiday per year

Annual professional membership subscription to CIEEM

Workplace pension scheme

Supportive office environment

Qualifications

• Degree in Ecology or Environmental Science with significant experience in protected species surveys.
• Strong report writing skills and familiarity with EIAs and BNG assessments.

Responsibilities

• Lead extended Phase 1 habitat surveys and protected species surveys for bats and great crested newts.
• Prepare technical reports for planning submissions and collaborate with the landscape team.

Skills

Protected species surveys

Ecological Impact Assessments

Biodiversity Net Gain assessments

Technical report writing

Mitigation proposals

Education

Degree in Ecology

Degree in Environmental Science

Tools

DEFRA metric v3.1

Job description

Job Description: Ecologist (Senior to Associate Level)

About the Company
This multidisciplinary environmental consultancy is dedicated to providing high-quality ecological services across a diverse range of projects. The company works with clients ranging from house builders to large-scale residential developments and commercial projects. With offices located across the country, the company fosters a supportive and friendly team environment. Flexible working arrangements allow employees to work from home for two days each week, ensuring a great work-life balance.

Role Overview
The Ecologist (Senior to Associate Level) will play a key role in delivering ecological services across various projects. The role involves undertaking extended Phase 1 habitat surveys, UK Habitat Classification System assessments, and protected species surveys, particularly for bats and great crested newts. The Ecologist will also collaborate with the landscape team to develop mitigation proposals and habitat creation schemes to support Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements. This position will contribute to technical reports, BREEAM assessments, BNG assessments, and Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs). The Ecologist will also manage projects under European Protected Species (EPS) licences, making a significant impact on the ecological success of the projects.

Key Responsibilities

1. Lead and undertake extended Phase 1 habitat surveys and protected species surveys, particularly for bats and great crested newts.
2. Contribute to the formulation of mitigation proposals and habitat creation schemes.
3. Supervise projects under EPS licences for bats and great crested newts.
4. Deliver technical reports for planning submission and provide input into BREEAM Assessments, BNG Assessments, and EIAs.
5. Undertake and manage Biodiversity Net Gain assessments using the DEFRA metric v3.1.
6. Prepare Ecological Impact Assessments/Ecology Chapters for use in EIAs.
7. Collaborate closely with the landscape team to integrate ecological considerations into broader project designs.
8. Support junior ecologists and assist with their professional development.

Qualifications and Experience

1. Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field.
2. Significant experience in protected species surveys, specifically for bats and great crested newts.
3. Demonstrated experience with mitigation and successful submission of development licences for protected species.
4. Experience undertaking Biodiversity Net Gain assessments using DEFRA metric v3.1.
5. Familiarity with the preparation of Ecological Impact Assessments and Ecology Chapters for EIAs.
6. Membership or working towards membership of CIEEM (Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management).
7. Strong technical report writing skills and experience with planning submissions.
8. A positive, proactive attitude with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
9. Full driving licence.

Benefits

1. Flexible and hybrid working hours with the option to work from home for two days each week.
2. Competitive salary based on experience.
3. Annual training opportunities to support professional development.
4. Generous TOIL scheme.
5. 25 days holiday per year (based on full-time working).
6. Annual professional membership subscription to CIEEM.
7. Workplace pension scheme.
8. A friendly, supportive, and collaborative office environment.

Candidates with the required experience and a passion for environmental conservation are encouraged to apply. Please submit an application, including a CV and cover letter outlining relevant experience and why this role is a good fit.