Overview

We’re looking for an Ecologist on a 24-month Fixed Term Contract to provide in‑house ecological expertise to support WWU’s Capital Delivery Team, ensuring capital projects are planned and delivered in compliance with ecological legislation, best practice, and environmental commitments.

The post‑holder will work closely with project managers, designers, and contractors to identify ecological constraints early, advise on risk and mitigation, and support efficient project delivery by reducing delays associated with ecological issues. The role will also contribute to biodiversity enhancement, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) delivery, and the embedding of consistent, proportionate ecological controls across the capital programme.

We’ll trust you to:

  • Promote a pragmatic, risk‑based approach to ecological compliance that supports efficient delivery while meeting legal and environmental obligations and aligns with the organisation’s Environmental Action Plan
  • Maintain accurate and auditable records of surveys undertaken, advice provided, and project support delivered
  • Provide ecological input to capital projects throughout design, planning, and delivery stages
  • Plan, undertake, and/or coordinate ecological surveys on straightforward sites in line with current best practice and guidance

You can read a full job description here.

You’ll need to have:

  • Sound knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and current best‑practice survey, mitigation, and enhancement guidance
  • BSc or MSc (or equivalent) in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline
  • Membership of CIEEM or actively working towards professional membership
  • Full UK driving licence with access to a vehicle

We would also love to hear about anything else you feel you could add or bring to the role!

What’s in it for you?

  • A competitive salary starting at £52,107 rising to £59,558
  • Hybrid working
  • Flexible working opportunities
  • 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays which can be tailored to celebrations that reflect your beliefs
  • Retirement Savings Plan (pension) with Aviva: 5% employee contribution, with WWU doubling your contribution at 10% – totalling 15%
  • 14 x salary Life Insurance linked to membership of the Retirement Savings Plan
  • “Choices” flexible benefit scheme options including corporate gym memberships, dental insurance, and health cash-plans
  • Access to our Financial Wellbeing Programme – allowing you to manage your benefits flexibly to suit your financial needs
  • Enhanced pay for parental leave
  • Retail discounts and cashback scheme
  • Friends & Family Discount for Three Mobile and Broadband
  • Colleague recognition including Annual Celebrating Excellence Awards
  • Living Wage Accredited Employer
  • Award winning employer for ‘Outstanding Contribution to Workplace Health and Wellbeing’ and leading the industry in championing equality, diversity and inclusion
  • Annual salary review
  • Discretionary annual bonus
  • Company Sick Pay
  • In-house Occupational Health Team
  • Employee Assistance Programme
  • Comprehensive training