Ecologist

MorsonEdge are currently working with an established and respected consultancy with complementary expertise in ecology, landscape architecture and visualisation based in Bath. They take a collaborative approach to their work and enjoy working on projects ranging from local and small scale to large, multi-phased schemes.

Their highly regarded ecologists provide the full spectrum of ecological services whilst maintaining excellent professional standards together with a high degree of scientific integrity. They have a wide variety of exciting and challenging projects and an established client base.

They are seeking to appoint an Ecologist (Professional) to join their existing team in their Bath office. Competitive Salary (dependant on experience) + excellent training and benefits.  This is a Permanent position. Key Responsibilities include;

• Plan and conduct field surveys on straightforward sites including extended habitat surveys for Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA) and protected species surveys such as bat, badger, reptiles, great crested newt, hazel dormouse (skills/licence dependant)
• Draft / contribute to high-quality ecological reports, developing skills in ecological assessment with support of experienced colleagues
• Support mapping, Biodiversity Net Gain calculations and data analysis
• Assist in preparation of mitigation strategies and development license applications for Protected Species
• Assist in design of ecological enhancements, Biodiversity Net Gain proposals and production of habitat management plans
• Liaise effectively with colleagues, clients, regulators, and stakeholders

What they are looking for

• BSc or MSc in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field
• 3+ years of relevant experience
• Knowledge of wildlife legislation, best practise survey and mitigation guidance
• Experience of carrying out protected species surveys, including bat surveys. Protected species licences, especially bats, are desirable but not essential
• Able to carry out baseline/ extended habitat surveys. Ideally at least FISC Level 3, with solid habitat assessment knowledge
• Good report writing skills
• Understanding of PEA and BNG workflows. Ideally able to carry out assessments with limited guidance at standard sites.
• A good communicator, keen to develop, work flexibility and collaborate with colleagues of a variety of disciplines.
• Willingness to work flexible hours during survey season. Some evening/night working will be required and a flexible TOIL system is in place.
• Willingness to travel (occasionally) however we also benefit from having a good proportion of local work.
• CIEEM Associate (ACIEEM) membership or working toward it
• Full UK driving license and own vehicle
• Experience of ecological watching briefs and CSCS card is desirable but not essential
• GIS skills (QGIS) would be beneficial but training will be provided

Location

The position would be based in their Bath office. They have a blended working approach which allows home working flexibility but requires office presence each week. Initial training and introduction to the company and ways of working will be in the office and involve working alongside colleagues. Regular team meetings and site visits will be a requirement of the role. They keep a happy office environment in a beautiful rural location which is close to Bristol and Bath with free on-site car parking.

Employment package

Part-time/flexible working will be considered and can work well in this role.

They offer in-house training so you can build up experience and skills. They offer competitive rates of pay (reflective of experience/skills, pro-rata for part-time). They reimburse business-related expenses including travel and subsistence. They pay for travel time to site and where agreed and offer paid overtime and TOIL for rest and recovery. Laptop / IT support are provided and a work phone will be provided if required.

Benefits for permanent staff are generous and include an established Pension Scheme, Healthcare and Insurance package, paid CPD opportunities (up to 5 days per year), payment of professional membership fees and support through Professional Training, regular in-house training.  There is an initial 22 days paid annual leave (plus bank holidays), increasing with service. Packages for part-time roles would be pro-rata accordingly.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a supportive and collaborative environment with a competitive salary, benefits package and progression.