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An opportunity is available for an experienced ecologist to join a growing team in the East of England. The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering ecological services for major development projects, from fieldwork through to planning support and mitigation. The company values work-life balance and offers flexible working arrangements, including Time Off In Lieu (TOIL) for fieldwork.
Benefits:
24-25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
Option to buy up to 5 extra holiday days
Company pension scheme
Share Incentive Scheme
Life assurance
Group disability cover
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
Health screening and dental care options
Cycle to Work scheme
Access to discounts via BenefitHub
Car allowance (for applicable roles)
Key Responsibilities
Lead and design a variety of protected species surveys for major infrastructure and development schemes in the East of England
Produce technical reports including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs), Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRAs), Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) reports, Landscape and Ecological Management Plans (LEMPs), and Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMPs)
Conduct Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments, including baseline habitat surveys, habitat condition assessments, Biodiversity Metric calculations, and reporting for planning applications
Develop and implement mitigation strategies, including obtaining protected species licences (e.g. for bats, great crested newts, dormice, badgers, and water voles)
Assist in the preparation of tenders and fee proposals
Provide mentoring and support to junior team members, encouraging professional development and hands-on learning
The ideal candidate will have:
Proficiency in UK Habitat Classification and habitat condition assessments
Proven experience in designing and delivering a wide range of ecological surveys and interpreting findings for planning and mitigation
Experience in protected species licensing and Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) responsibilities
A collaborative approach, with the ability to work independently when required
Strong communication and time management skills
A full UK driving licence with business insurance and a willingness to travel throughout the region (occasional overnight stays may be necessary)
Ideal Qualifications & Certifications
Degree (BSc or MSc) in Ecology or a related field
Eligibility for, or current membership of, the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM)
A protected species survey licence (e.g. for great crested newts or bats is highly desirable)
Field Identification Skills Certificate (FISC) Level 4 is desirable but not essential
Interested in this role? Apply today or feel free to ring Ashleigh Garner at Penguin Recruitment for a confidential chat.
