Consultant Ecologist

Location: Derbyshire Salary: £28,000 - £37,500

Embankment Group is recruiting on behalf of an environmental land management consultancy seeking to appoint a Consultant Ecologist in Derby. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced ecologist to join a dynamic and collaborative team, working alongside senior technical experts to deliver impactful ecological and environmental projects across diverse frameworks.

Overview

As a Consultant Ecologist, you will play a pivotal role in delivering high-quality ecological, land management, and environmental services. You will be involved in a variety of projects, including ecological surveys, biodiversity net gain assessments, habitat management, and ecological monitoring. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful environmental initiatives while advancing your career in a supportive and professional environment.

Responsibilities

As a Consultant Ecologist, your key responsibilities will include:

• Producing, reviewing, and contributing to high-quality ecological reports, such as Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA) and Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA).
• Conducting and overseeing ecological surveys, including Extended Phase 1, UKHab, and protected species surveys.
• Supporting the preparation and review of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments.
• Developing habitat management plans and ecological monitoring reports.
• Planning and executing field survey logistics, including preparing and implementing survey methodologies.
• Compiling project-specific desk studies and literature reviews.
• Interpreting ecological data and contributing to survey, monitoring, and management reports.
• Acting as or overseeing Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) duties, providing on-site ecological supervision and auditing.
• Managing and mapping ecological data using GIS tools, such as QGIS.
• Writing and reviewing risk assessments and method statements to ensure safe site work.
• Managing projects and supporting office management and administrative tasks.
• Contributing to bids, tenders, budgets, and project finance management.

Qualifications

To be successful in this role, you will need:

• A degree in Ecology, Biodiversity, Conservation Management, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• At least four years of demonstrable consultancy experience or equivalent experience in the ecology sector.
• Strong knowledge of ecology, survey techniques, and ecological assessment.
• Confidence in conducting Phase 1 habitat surveys and UKHab surveys, with strong botanical skills.
• Experience in field surveys covering a range of British wildlife, including bats, badgers, birds, otters, water voles, and great crested newts.
• A solid understanding of protected species, priority habitats, and their roles within ecosystems.
• Associate or Full membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM).
• A good understanding of current wildlife and environmental legislation, policies, standards, and ecological guidance.
• A full UK driving licence.
• A positive, pragmatic, and ambitious approach to ecological consultancy.

Desirable Qualifications:

• A protected species class licence, with a bat licence preferred.
• Experience acting as a Named Ecologist or Accredited Agent on European Protected Species Licences or badger mitigation licences.

Day-to-Day Activities

Your typical day as a Consultant Ecologist may include:

• Conducting ecological surveys and assessments in the field.
• Preparing detailed ecological reports and management plans.
• Collaborating with colleagues and stakeholders to deliver high-quality project outcomes.
• Using GIS tools to analyse and map ecological data.
• Supervising on-site ecological activities as an Ecological Clerk of Works.
• Managing project timelines, budgets, and deliverables.
• Contributing to the development of bids and tenders for new projects.

Benefits

• Competitive salary ranging from £28,000 to £37,500.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment.
• The chance to work on diverse and meaningful ecological and environmental projects.
• Flexible working arrangements, including the option to work from home.
• Access to training and resources to enhance your skills and expertise.