Overview

A fantastic opportunity for an experienced aquatic ecologist to join a successful environmental consultancy as a Senior or Principal level consultant in Sheffield.

Ecus Ltd is an established environmental consultancy and has gained a reputation for technical excellence, staff development and a great working environment. The aquatic ecology team delivers projects for a wide range of clients including water companies, private clients and, statutory authorities and are on the Environment Agency’s Ecological Services Framework. We have an in-house laboratory based at the Sheffield office that provides our clients ecological analytical services.

The Role
We are looking for candidates with a proven track record of delivering high quality consultancy services with excellent project management, reporting and communication skills and experience of providing robust and pragmatic commercial advice. In return we offer a highly competitive salary and the opportunity to be involved in providing technical support on a variety of water management and ecology projects across a wide range of clients and sectors.

Role and Responsibilities
Provide high level advice and technical input into aquatic ecology surveys and assessments.
Lead the delivery of analytical services from our in-house aquatic laboratory, quality control and health and safety.
Build and maintain relationships with clients through project and bidding activities. Develop solutions to customer problems.
Undertake, produce and technically review aquatic assessments.
Lead a range of tenders, including large and complex proposals.
Lead, project manage and coordinate a wide range of aquatic studies and feed into water environment projects.
Build up follow-on work as it arises from existing work and develop opportunities with new clients.
Work with the Regional Head and Technical Lead on relevant aspects of the business regionally and across the UK.
Skills & Experience
A degree in a relevant subject, such as, Ecology or Biology and ideally a postgraduate degree.
Comprehensive understanding of aquatic ecology systems with particular focus on the freshwater environment, in particular standing waters, lakes, ponds and wetlands.
Experience of taking the technical lead on aquatic ecology assessments to inform EIAs.
Experience of designing, planning and undertaking field surveys, including fisheries, macrophytes, macroinvertebrates and River Habitat Survey.
Experience of laboratory biotic analysis for macroinvertebrates.
Experience of biotic indices, statistical analysis and associated tools (e.g. RICT, Rivpacs, Leafpacs).
Working knowledge of current legislation including the Water Framework Directive, Habitats Regulation Assessment and Freshwater Fisheries Directive.
Experience of identifying appropriate pre and post project appraisal for habitat restoration plans, wetland and river schemes and aquatic management plans.
Experience of stakeholder engagement, communication and management.
Full membership of CIEEM or CIWEM or similar professional body,
Excellent team working skills together with strong communication skills and a close attention to detail.
Excellent report writing skills, including survey reports, Environmental Statement/Assessment chapters, tender writing skills and ability to give presentations at all levels, including conferences and workshops.
Full driving licence.
Desirable Skills
Assessment of riparian habitats and river corridor assessments.
Specialist expertise in diatom and phytoplankton analysis and identification.
RHS accreditation and/or electrofishing training.
RYA Level 2 Powerboat Licence.
Experience in survey and assessments of the marine environment.
Experience in drought permit applications, Appropriate Assessment, high/low flow and hands-off flow monitoring and assessment.
Salary & Benefits
As well as our generous benefits package we are committed to assisting the professional and personal development of our team and have been awarded Investors in People status. We offer a competitive salary, contributory pension scheme, healthcare benefit package, development and training opportunities, a flexible approach to work and a friendly and supportive working environment.

Applications should be made via email including CV and covering letter.

If you would like further information regarding this opportunity or have any questions feel free to contact us using the details below.

Closing date for applications 29th July 2016, although early applications are encouraged and advert may close early. Interviews will be held w/c 1st August.

Email: recruitment@ecusltd.co.uk