Senior Ecologist- South West | Remote, Worcester

Duties

• Lead and manage Habitat Bank projects from initiation to creation and beyond, ensuring adherence to project timelines, budgets, and objectives.
• Undertake ecological survey work including site walkovers, UK Habitat Classification, habitat condition assessment and more specialised botanical survey work as necessary.
• Analyse ecological data, interpret findings, and prepare Biodiversity Net Gain assessments and calculations utilising the Biodiversity Metric 4.0.
• Lead on habitat design and creation of Habitat Management Plans and associated strategies with technical support from the wider team as needed. Digital mapping and presentation of habitat baselines and habitat creation proposals using GIS.
• Liaison and relationship building with landowners and other stake holders throughout the Habitat Bank process.
• Support the Capital Works Team in the delivery of habitat creation, lead in the implementation of the HMP and support with sub-contractor management, procurement and HSSE management.
• Organising and undertaking monitoring surveys for existing offset sites and habitat banks and liaising with landowners and land managers to discuss and adapt management plans.
• Report writing including Biodiversity Appraisals, in-house research projects and literature reviews of documentation and external guidance.
• Stay abreast of current research, developments, and emerging issues in the field of ecology, particularly within the UK Biodiversity Net Gain and Natural Capital context and apply this knowledge to inform decision-making processes.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior ecologists, overseeing their work and fostering their professional development.
• Foster positive relationships with key external stakeholders, including local communities, conservation groups, and academic institutions, to promote collaboration and knowledge exchange.
• Contribute to business development efforts by identifying new project opportunities, preparing proposals, and participating in meetings and presentations.

Skills & Experience

• Bachelor’s and Master’s in ecology, environmental science, biology, or a related field.
• CIEEM Full Membership
• FISC Level 4 – or equivalent botanical skills as per the Botanical Field Skill Pyramid
• Some experience in practical habitat restoration, creation and management.
• A good track record of proven experience as an ecologist, with relevant work experience, including project management responsibilities.
• Strong knowledge of ecological principles, biodiversity conservation, and environmental impact assessment methodologies.
• Proficiency in conducting ecological fieldwork, including habitat surveys, species identification, and ecological monitoring.
• Experience in BNG and other ecological data analysis using the Biodiversity Metric 4.0, statistical software, GIS, and other relevant tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex ecological concepts to diverse audiences.
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to effectively manage teams, prioritize tasks, and meet project deadlines.
• Familiarity with environmental regulations, permits, and compliance requirements.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel to project sites as required across the UK