Ecologist/Senior Ecologist

Overview

Ecologist/Senior Ecologist, Midlands, remote working, £30-45k DoE 

Croft Ecology are a small but fast-growing Ecology Consultancy based in South Leicestershire, and operating across the Midlands and occasionally further afield.   Specialising in small developments, we offer a broad range of ecological services, from PEAs and BNG reports to Protected Species Surveys, PRAs, EcIAs, mitigation licences and similar.

We are seeking an Ecologist and/or Senior Ecologist to join our small but highly experienced team, to help us in delivering a friendly, professional ecology service to our growing customer base.  You will be ideally located within easy access of Staffordshire and neighbouring counties.

Role Overview
As an Ecologist or Senior Ecologist, you will play a key role in assisting with or leading ecological surveys, assessments, and habitat management plans, supporting our Director of Ecology in the preparation and delivery of a range of interesting projects.

Core responsibilities include:

• Conducting field surveys, including UK Hab Surveys/Phase 1 habitat surveys, protected species surveys, and BNG condition assessments.
• Producing ecology reports such as Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, BNG Reports, Preliminary Roost Assessments, Protected Species reports, Ecological Impact Assessments, Protected Species Licence Applications and Habitat Management and Monitoring Plans.
• Using QGIS and Coreo to produce habitat maps and BNG calculations
• Advising clients on ecological constraints and opportunities within their projects.
• Contributing to biodiversity enhancement plans and habitat restoration schemes.
• Liaising with clients, regulatory bodies, and stakeholders to ensure compliance with environmental legislation.
• Staying up to date with best practice in the ecology sector and contributing to the company’s growth and development.

Applicants will ideally have the following:

• A degree in a relevant science or a closely related field, or equivalent experience.
• Eligible for CIEEM Membership.
• Relevant professional ecological experience.
• Knowledge and experience of assisting with and potentially leading UK Habitat Classification Surveys and protected species surveys.
• Botanical & Habitat Skills: ability to correctly identify habitats with good botanical identification skills.
• Experience in producing BNG Assessments and Habitat Management and Monitoring Plans.
• Experience in the use of GIS mapping software, preferably QGIS
• Experience of using Coreo to collect habitat data in the field
• Ability to write clear and concise reports.
• A broad skillset, ideally holding at least one protected species licence.
• A thorough understanding of UK and EU legislation, planning policy and best practice.
• Experience in supporting or leading projects and being client-facing; able to provide clear advice at the concept/design stage and supporting clients through planning and implementation.
• A full driving licence and your own car.

We offer a range of benefits, including:

• £30-45k pa Depending on Experience
• Flexible remote working with regular in-person catch ups
• Training budget
• 25 days Annual Leave (rising over time) plus Bank Holidays
• Bonus Birthday off!
• Flexible TOIL arrangements for those busy Summer months
• Pension
• Discretionary bonus

Croft Ecology are committed to ongoing professional development and are happy to consider applicants keen to step up to or from ecologist roles, or those with significant relevant experience looking to potentially progress beyond the Senior Ecologist role over time.

As a family business, we understand that life happens (frequently!), and so we are happy to consider flexible working arrangements as required such as reduced hours, working around school hours or similar.

If you would like to apply, please forward your CV and a covering email to tony@croftecology.co.uk