Overview

A small independent ecological consultancy based in Cheshire providing comprehensive ecology services from baseline surveys to impact assessments, habitat creation and management, and expert witness advice.

Our services include but are not limited to: PEA /UKHab surveys, specialist botanical & NVC surveys.  Protected species mitigation and licence applications.  Biodiversity net gain assessments (BNG), ecological impact assessment (EcIA) and ecology management plans.

Development and career growth through in-house training with our expert consultants along with a large range of industry accredited training courses.

Position

We are looking for a senior ecological consultant to join, lead and manage our ecology team.  Delivering a responsive and practical ecological consultancy to our existing clients to further develop our long-established relationships.

You will have worked on large national infra-structure schemes and may have been Lead Ecologist in this capacity. You will have extensive knowledge of existing and emerging planning policy including Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG).   You will possess as a minimum, a level 2 Bat licence and ideally be the named ecologist on numerous European Protected Species Licence (EPSL) mitigation projects. You will possess the necessary botanical competency to confidently survey habitats to NVC level.

You will have the capacity to inspire and mentor colleagues and will always seek to maximise their professional fulfilment and job satisfaction; you are a leader providing high level technical support for existing members of staff.

Key tasks & responsibilities 

• Managing the delivery of large complex project work for key clients
• Protected species surveys, mitigation and compensation design and preparation of EPSLs including the design and implementation of mitigation schemes.
• Managing and mentoring a team of ecological specialists to develop technical, commercial and business development skills.
• Responsible for consultation, field survey work, reporting, Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) and writing ecology chapters for Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA).
• Reports, habitat and species management planning, and conducting Habitat Regulations Assessments (HRA’s).
• Mentor and support the development of junior ecologists.
• Be contactable during all survey periods including anti-social hours. Retain good communication with other members of the team.

 As an organisation operating throughout the UK you will need to enjoy exploring the country as travelling and staying away from home are a regular requirement particularly during peak season.

Essential skills and attributes

Experience in PEA, NVC, specialist botanical surveys and protected species surveys

Holder of a level 2 bat licence and proven track record of obtaining Natural England mitigation licences

Knowledge of planning policy and process in relation to ecology and biodiversity including BS 42020, UKBAP species & habitats

Knowledge of the CIEEM ecological survey guidance and protected species licencing

Full clean driving licence and your own car although company pool vehicles are available for staff for survey work where required.

Minimum of 5 years relevant experience

Experience using GIS software for ecological purposes

Experience of bat sound analysis software such as Bat Explorer

Experience of BREEAM Land Use & Ecology Assessment

Full or Associate membership of The Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management

FISC level 4

Benefits/Package

Salary of £42,500 to £47,500 depending on experience

Funded professional body membership

25 days holiday plus the day off for your birthday

Cycle to work scheme

Childcare voucher scheme paid in addition to salary

Training budget and progression plan

Opportunity to develop your career with a growing business

Discretionary service bonus

TOIL (time off in lieu) policy and flexible approach to working hours

Auto-enrolment pension scheme (after 3 months service)

This is a permanent position offered on a full or part-time basis with a working split between our Knutsford office and on-site work.

Please send your application to Jenny Gibbs with a CV and covering letter to jenny@ues.org.uk.