Consultant Ecologist | Preston

Ecology Services Ltd. are a highly experienced professional consultancy based in Preston and operating mainly throughout the Northwest. Formed in 2003 we are celebrating our 20th year in 2023, and our highly experienced team of Ecologists with over 60 years combined experience. Our services include ecological surveys, impact assessment, mitigation design, biodiversity net-gain assessments, ecological clerk-of-works, licensing and much more.

We work with all sizes of clients from private individuals, Local Authorities, utility companies to Property & Development and have a diverse and exciting range of projects. To meet a growing demand for our services, we are on the search for a highly motivated individual with ecological consultancy experience, identification skills for a range of species and capable of producing clear, concise survey reports.

The Role:

• Ecological input to a varied range of projects across different sectors;
• Leading, planning and coordinating field surveys, analysing and interpreting survey results;
• Working with other disciplines, planning and coordinating ecological mitigation works;
• Undertaking reporting of Preliminary Ecological Assessments and Ecological Impact Assessments;
• Preparing protected species licence applications;
• Managing work enquiries, preparing bids and building client relationships;
• Leading on projects and managing project budgets;
• Working closely within a friendly team of ecologists.

The role would suit a highly motivated individual with ecological consultancy experience, identification skills for a range of species and capable of producing clear, concise survey reports.

A higher end Consultant Ecologist would be undertaking more complex projects including; Ecological Impacts Assessments, Habitat Regulation Assessments and obtaining derogation licences, with greater project management responsibilities.

About You

Essential criteria:

• A degree qualification in a relevant subject;
• Membership of CIEEM (Eligible for) or other body;
• Proven track record of working within an ecological consultancy, ideally for a minimum of 2 years;
• Understanding of UK planning policy and wildlife legislation;
• Be capable of carrying out Preliminary Ecological Appraisals;
• Strong precise report writing skills;
• Specialist ecological knowledge; in a relevant area of ecology, such as botanical skills or protected species licences;
• Strong project management skills;
• Excellent communicative, team working and organisational skills, and
• A Full driving licence with valid business insurance.

Higher end Consultant Ecologist criteria:

• Expertise in at least one species/group –ornithology and bats are of particular interest;
• One or more Natural England species survey licences;
• Track record of completing and obtaining EPSM licences;
• Strong botanical identification skills;
• Highly proficient in QGIS;
• Excellent report writing skills and ability to edit colleagues reports and provide feedback.

The following skills are highly desirable:

• Bat class licence Level 1 or 2;
• Derogation licence holders (bats);
• Good botany skills;
• Working knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain;
• QGIS Mapping skills.

What we offer:

Ecology Services Ltd. strive to ensure that employees maintain a good work-life balance, which is supported by; working generally a maximum of 2 nights per week during survey season, flexible working arrangements and a TOIL system. Paid time off for doctors/dentist appointments, our staff health is paramount.

Working in a relaxed and friendly team environment, the door is always open if someone needs support, we want you to feel supported. Mix of office/home hybrid working, depending upon each team members preference, which is supported by mobile phones and laptop being provided.

Funded and encouraged CPD (no limits), including paid professional memberships such as CIEEM, we believe we are as good as our employees and we want you to be the best you can at you job.

28 days annual leave per year (including public holidays), which increases after 5 years to 33 days annual leave per year (including bank holidays).

Pensions scheme and use of company vehicle when on company business.

If you want to be supported by our friendly team of highly trained ecologists and provided with excellent training opportunities, both in-house and externally, receiving appraisals to aid career progression and work for a company that is committed to ensuring a good work-life balance, then come and join our team.

If you feel that you have the right experience and qualities to join our ecology team please e-mail your CV, salary expectations and a covering letter explaining why you feel you are a suitable candidate for this role to:

 Andrew Parkinson

Office Manager

Ecology Services Ltd

E-mail: andrew.parkinson@ecologyservices.co.uk

Agency enquiries will not be considered.

For more details about Ecology Services Ltd, please refer to our website: https://ecologyservices.co.uk

For an informal discussion regarding this opportunity please contact: Lyn Eccles-Sargeant, Managing Director on 01772 614932.