Open Spaces, based just outside of the ancient town of Maldon, Essex, is an expanding, multi-disciplinary consultancy practice (landscape architects, tree and ecology consultants), offering an exciting opportunity for the right person. Our work encompasses a wide range of project types from single residential developments to multi-phase housing, commercial and educational projects.

In order to grow the ecology side of the business we are looking to bring ecology in-house by seeking an experienced, self-motivated, enthusiastic person to undertake a range of both field surveying and desk-based analysis and report writing. Ideally, you will have some 5 years’ experience in undertaking preliminary ecological appraisals, protected species surveys (particularly reptiles, GCN, badgers and bats), and be competent to prepare the associated reports. Essential attributes will be a sound knowledge of UK ecology and associated legislation, good plant identification skills, ability to be flexible, demonstrate initiative and attention to detail. A clean driving licence and own vehicle will be required. This could be the ideal opportunity to take the next step forward, broaden your skills and help develop a department from the ground up – we can offer you an opportunity to progress your career and develop your own skills and experience in a friendly and supportive environment.

Desirable attributes will be a degree in ecology or related discipline, membership of CIEEM, experience in making NE licence applications and calculating BNG (DEFRA Metric).

In return we will offer a competitive salary (£28,000 – £35,000) dependent on experience, flexible working to ensure work-life balance due to some unsociable hours/TOIL policy due to seasonal survey requirements, training and equipment budget, contributory pension, annual leave increasing with service.

Experience/character required:

• Established ecologist with at least 4 years consultancy experience
• Proficient in PEAs with good botanical and field skills
• Proficient in follow on surveys for bats, reptiles, CGNs etc.
• Experienced and proficient in all aspects of analysis and report writing, DLL, BNG calculations
• CIEEM Membership (Full or Associate)
• Confident self-starter, able to prioritise own workload with excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Full driving licence with use of own vehicle
• Part-time considered

To apply, email km@open-spaces.co.uk. Include your CV/experience, start date availability and salary expectations.

Please note that Open Spaces does not accept unsolicited CVs from recruiters or employment agencies.  In the absence of a signed Recruitment Fee Agreement, Open Spaces will not consider or agree to payment of any referral compensation or recruiter fee.  In the event that a recruiter or agency submits a CV or other details of a candidate without a previously signed agreement, Open Spaces reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidates without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency.  Any unsolicited CVs are deemed to be the property of Open Spaces.