Bat Specialist Ecologist

Overview

We are working on behalf of a leading multidisciplinary environmental consultancy to appoint experienced bat specialists to support a growing national ecology team. This opportunity is ideal for ecologists with strong bat survey, mitigation, and licensing experience who are looking to work on technically interesting projects while maintaining a healthy and sustainable work-life balance.

This role is open to BER Registered Consultants, ecologists eligible for BER accreditation, and bat-licensed ecologists operating across England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and ROI. The business operates a genuinely flexible working model, with projects allocated based on expertise rather than postcode.

Responsibilities

As a Bat Specialist Ecologist, you will be involved in bat-related work from early project input through to delivery and post-consent stages. Your responsibilities will include:

• Designing bat survey methodologies and contributing to fee proposals.
• Conducting bat surveys, including roost assessments, activity surveys, and advanced techniques.
• Analyzing survey data and producing high-quality reports and mitigation strategies.
• Preparing and supporting bat mitigation licence applications.
• Contributing to EIA ecology inputs and HRA work where required.
• Managing elements of projects or acting as Project Manager with appropriate support.
• Advising clients, planners, and internal teams on bat-related matters.
• Supporting and mentoring junior ecologists, including licence progression.
• Staying up to date with emerging research, guidance, and survey technologies.

Projects range from complex roost mitigation in buildings and trees to large-scale infrastructure, renewables, and flood defence schemes.

Qualifications

We are seeking candidates who enjoy technical bat work and are eager to develop their expertise within a supportive national team.

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

• A Natural England Class 2 bat licence or equivalent in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, or ROI.
• Recent experience delivering licensed bat mitigation projects.
• Strong field survey capability across a range of bat survey methods.
• Confidence in producing technical reports and mitigation strategies.
• A full UK driving licence.

Desirable Qualifications and Experience:

• BER Registered Consultant status or eligibility to apply.
• Experience contributing to EIA or HRA projects.
• Interest in advanced survey techniques, data analysis, or new technologies.

Day-to-Day

Your daily activities will include:

• Conducting bat surveys, including roost assessments and activity surveys.
• Designing and implementing survey methodologies.
• Preparing detailed reports and mitigation strategies.
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, including planners, engineers, and landscape architects.
• Mentoring junior ecologists and supporting their professional development.
• Managing projects and ensuring timely delivery of high-quality outputs.
• Engaging with clients and stakeholders to provide expert ecological advice.

Benefits

• Flexible and hybrid working across the UK.
• Clear and structured career progression pathways.
• TOIL system designed around seasonal survey demands.
• Investment in high-quality survey equipment and technology.
• Strong internal mentoring and training support.
• Exposure to a wide range of technically challenging projects.
• A collaborative multidisciplinary working environment.
• Car or car allowance available regardless of grade.

About the Team

You will join a large national ecology group with over 90 ecologists working as one connected team. Bat specialists collaborate with a broader multidisciplinary business, working closely with planners, engineers, landscape architects, and other technical disciplines. The culture is open, supportive, and knowledge-driven, with easy access to expertise across the business.

If you are passionate about bat ecology and want to work on exciting projects while enjoying a flexible and supportive work environment, we encourage you to apply. Join a team that values professional development, innovation, and a healthy work-life balance.