Overview

The Assistant Ecologist will be responsible for assisting the Climate Change and Environmental Team with implementing the requirements of Welsh Government (WG) policy and environmental legislation such as Wildlife and Countryside Act 1980 and Section 6 of Environment Wales Act. The post holder will provide professional ecological advice and support to NMWTRA and our partners regarding the assessment, impact and mitigation of our operations on ecology and biodiversity, ensuring NMWTRA is both compliant with legislation and maximising biodiversity opportunities.

They will provide direct ecological support and technical advice to NMWTRA Capital delivery and maintenance teams including review of internal and external documents, surveys and reporting, technical advice, attendance of meetings and site supervision. Work within the Environment Team to manage the soft estate inventory including the identification of the location and condition of ecological assets.

The Assistant Ecologist will also propose, design and manage a programme of ecological enhancement projects developed from routine and reactive maintenance activities associated with the soft estate and environmental management, assist the Ecologist and Environment Team and other NMWTRA staff with obtaining NRW licences where required and discharging any conditions and requirements such as surveys, monitoring and reporting to ensure compliance, and work with the Environment Team to manage projects related to ecological enhancement and mitigation works.

Person Specification

  • Ability to work in a team environment
  • Self-motivated, committed and with personal initiative
  • Degree or MSc in Zoology, Botany, Ecology or a relevant ecological subject. HNC/HND/NVQ (Level 4) in an ecology related subject and at least 5 years’ relevant experience
  • Well-developed interpersonal communication skills with ability to inspire and motivate others
  • Ability to work safely under pressure and to deal with tight deadlines
  • Able to work with limited supervision, to prioritise own workload Good organisational skills, innovative and forward thinking
  • Ability to communicate in a courteous, tactful and diplomatic way when dealing with contentious issues, understanding policies and constraints of others
  • Ability to provide guidance, manage, supervise and lead on ecological matters within NMWTRA teams and projects
  • Ability to persevere with achieving ecological best practice and legislative compliance when this is not always a popular decision with others
  • Ability to work in consultation and partnership with external organisations and consultants
  • Dedicated to accuracy and delivery of tasks to achieve best outcome for environment
  • Evidence of commitment to continuing personal and professional development
  • Frequently work hours which are outside normal hours as required
  • Ability to use Geographical Information Systems (GiS), capture data in the field, analyse and manipulate data, produce maps and reports
  • IT literate – use of Word, Excel spread sheets and databases
  • Skills in concise report writing, data management and interpretation
  • Ability to scrutinise reports and documents produced by others to ensure that content is satisfactory
  • Well-developed oral and written communication skills to a wide range of audience. Ability to motivate and educate others
  • Practical skills in identifying main species groups and knowing where to find further information
  • Problem solving skills and finding ways to resolve conflict and achieve quality results
  • Knowledge of UK nature conservation legislation, wider environmental legislation, standards and Industry Good Practice guidance
  • Health and Safety awareness
  • Current valid Driving Licence
  • The ability to communicate in Welsh is desirable and English is essential.
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