Senior/Principal Ecologist | Manchester

The role

The successful candidate will be responsible for leading, managing and delivering ecology projects across a range of challenging and exciting schemes to the highest quality, drawing upon field experience and knowledge of the planning system. A technical focus is required, with excellent delivery experience and strong project management and communication skills. An inspiring approach and the ability to lead and manage staff is required. You will be a key contributor in developing and supporting the growth of the team to achieve business plan targets.

Key responsibilities

The successful candidate will be responsible for (but not limited to):

• Leading a portfolio of interesting and complex ecological projects from initial client liaison through to completion
• Managing and organising subconsultants and seasonal workforce as required
• Undertaking field work including surveying habitats and protected species
• Ecological Clerk of Works activities
• Writing, overseeing and completing qualty checks of technical reports
• Mentoring and managing enthusiastic Ecologists by adopting a creative and an inspiring approach
• Contributing to business development activities including client relationships
• Maintaining quality and Health and Safety standards
• Demonstrating efficient and profitable delivery

Essential requirements

• A minimum of 3-5 years’ experience as a consultant Ecologist
• A relevant degree
• Full member of CIEEM
• Excellent knowledge of UK and EC wildlife legislation and policy including experience of practical application of mitigation requirements for protected species.
• Working knowledge of EIA and the planning process
• Protected species licences advantageous, particularly for bats and GCN
• Developed core field and technical report writing skills, alongside delivery of EPSL licence documents and EcIA
• Experience and working knowledge of BNG assessments
• Excellent project management skills including financial control, strong client liaison and coordinating a team effort
• Enthusiastic and flexible approach to work
• Strong organisational skills/ability to work under pressure to deadlines
• Strong interpersonal skills/an ability to work at all levels with colleagues and clients
• A full UK driving licence
• Flexibility to work outside office hours and away from home as required

Desirable requirements

• Named ecologist on EPSL / Mitigation licence for bats and/or GCN
• FISC level 3 or above
• Habitat Regulations Assessment experience
• GIS proficiency / capability
• Staff mentoring experience