Overview
Our client is looking for an experienced, qualified and ambitious Senior Ecologist who can help offer unparalleled ecological expertise and services to their existing high profile clients within the commercial, public, private and charity sectors to assist in growing and developing the company. They value professional integrity, a dedicated yet flexible work ethic, and impeccable standards of quality.

The role can be based from either the Hertford or Windsor Office and with the option for remote and home working. As Senior Ecologist. you will be required to deliver a range of ecological consultancy services to an exceptional standard, taking projects through from inception to completion. You will be operating as part of a larger consultancy offering Nature Recovery, Arboricultural and Forestry services, and alongside operational landscape and forestry teams delivering practical services.

The job role will include:

Liaising with clients, attending site meetings and producing quotations and costed proposals

Designing and specifying surveys and projects

Supervising and undertaking field survey work

Report writing and supervision for a range of ecological consultancy work including UK Habitat Surveys, protected species surveys, Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Ecological Impact Assessments, HRAs and SSSI consents

Completing Biodiversity Net Gain baseline assessments, metric calculations and strategies for a range of projects, and contributing to the production of Habitat Management & Monitoring Plans (HMMPs)

Working closely with other consultants on joint projects such as Landscape Management Plans and Woodland Creation Design Plans, and supporting our operational teams in the practical delivery of projects

Line manager to a small team of Ecologists and Assistants with the responsibility of managing their work programme, providing day-to-day support, and supporting training needs.

Appointment and management of seasonal Field Ecologists. Core skills and requirements:

A degree in ecology or a related subject

Minimum 4 Years relevant professional ecological experience with a consultancy background

Thorough working knowledge and understanding of UK and European legislation related to protected species and habitats

Experience of preparing Preliminary Ecological Appraisals and Ecological Impact Assessments

Experience producing HRAs and SSSI consents

Experience of completing BNG baseline assessments and metric calculations

Excellent understanding of the UK planning system and experience contributing to planning applications

Strong field surveyor skills including extended Phase 1 Habitat Surveys, UKHabs, botanical and protected species surveys

Protected species survey licences to include at least Level 2 bat licence and Level 1 great crested newt licence

Ability to put together appropriately designed survey strategies, develop viable mitigation approaches, and to manage EPS mitigation licence applications from start to finish

Proven experience of line managing staff and overseeing teams of field surveyors; Full member of CIEEM

Technical proficiency using Microsoft Office and GIS Excellent project management skills and the ability to manage project finances

Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel