Overview

At Atkins we offer more than just a job. We offer an opportunity to make a difference and shape the world to benefit future generations and the natural environment.
As CIEEM’s Large Consultancy of the Year 2018, the Atkins ecology team are one of the most respected in the UK. We have a reputation for technical excellence, innovation, award winning and actively shaping the future of the ecology industry. We are now seeking to expand our team with an experienced hire of an Ecologist to join our well-established and growing team of over 30 ecologists in the Midlands in our Birmingham, Bristol or Derby offices.
We have a team of over 70 ecologists based in offices around the UK that are committed to providing specialist ecological advice in connection with infrastructure, development and other projects. You can expect to manage and lead protected species surveys, licensing and mitigation, habitat assessment, creation, restoration, management and monitoring, biodiversity offsetting, green infrastructure and Environmental Impact Assessments.
Our close-knit team of ecologists works closely together nationally with technical networks for specialisms and opportunities to develop areas of strength with like-minded experts. We encourage the production of papers/articles and support our staff in presenting their work at conferences. Our competency framework and professionals programme are designed to help people progress in their career to chartership and beyond. The dynamic and influential relationship between our ecology team and our engineering, planning and design colleagues, combined with the support of our unique in-house professionals programme, provide exceptional opportunities for ecologists to develop both their technical and commercial skills.
We value flexible working within our team and would encourage working from different offices across the region, flexible working hours and working from home as part of regular working.
As one of the world’s leading engineering, environmental and design consultancies, Atkins offers opportunities for talented ecologists to work on a wide variety of projects. Our award-winning ecology experts combine technical excellence with a pragmatic approach to ensure that both biodiversity and our clients benefit from our innovations.
Still unsure? See what our ecologists have to say about working at Atkins:
https://careers.atkinsglobal.com/ecology-careers.
 
Responsibilities
For this position, the majority of the work is likely to be regionally based, but there will be opportunities for technical collaboration with our ecologists throughout the UK.
You will be supported in developing your career through formal training and through working alongside national experts. You will:
The successful candidate will be expected to:
• Provide technical and project support to the Midlands ecology team and beyond;
• Work with ecologists and other professionals (environmental scientists, engineers, planners) throughout Atkins and across the UK to provide a consistent and integrated service to clients;
• Undertake field surveys for a range of habitats and species;
• Plan and co-ordinate ecological mitigation works;
• Undertake nature conservation / ecological assessments;
• Continue to develop your technical skills paying attention to CPD requirements;
• Manage your own time and workload in collaboration with other team members;
• Prepare bids and management of project budgets;
• Work within deadlines and budgets; and
• Work effectively as part of a team delivering a first-class service to our clients.
Requirements 
Qualifications 
• A degree in a relevant discipline and preferably an MSc;
• Membership (ideally full) of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM);
Essential Criteria 
• Experience working within ecological consultancy;
• Botanical skills and/or a survey licence for one or more protected species;
• An understanding of relevant UK & EU legislation, planning policies and licensing regulations;
• Up-to-date knowledge of survey guidance and assessment for UK protected species;
• Experience of Phase 1 habitat survey and protected species survey;
• Project management skills;
• Experience of report writing (ideally including EcIA and EIA biodiversity chapters);
• Flexibility over travel and hours (It is a requirement to be available to work in the evenings and early mornings and it may be necessary to be away from home for one or more nights per week, regularly during the survey season);
• Proficiency in standard IT applications, including Word, Excel and email;
• An understanding of the importance of health and safety risk management; and
• A full UK driver’s licence.
Training 
Atkins develops individuals through a range of internal and external training and development activities designed to help make the best of your abilities and talents. Our Academy offers a structured development and training programme to further enhance your career in both ecological and project management skills to industry recognised standards.
We actively support staff in achieving corporate membership of relevant institutions.
Rewards and Benefits 
Please refer to our website for details of our full benefits package. https://www.yourrewardatkins.com/#welcome
 
This role may require security clearance and offers of employment will be dependent on obtaining the relevant level of clearance. If this is necessary it will be discussed with you at interview. 
 
If applying to this role please do not make reference to (in conversation) or include in your application or CV, details of any current or previously held security clearance.