Senior / Lead Ecologist

Lead Ecologist

About The Role

Our Civil Engineering client who have an expanding team of environmental specialists, have a unique role for somebody to head up their Ecology function and get more Ecologists to join their team - you will be developing the team how you see fit, and you will be given the support to do that.

You will get stuck into both fieldwork and the report writing - anything from bat surveys on old bridges to Great Crested Newt licensed mitigation, water vole displacements or just some good old nesting bird checks - we do it all, so come and join us! And if you're still not convinced, why not apply and come have a chat with our existing Lead Ecologist before she retires following several exciting years with the business?

This role sits within the Environmental Technical Team, which acts as an in-house consultancy through delivery of specialist environmental and sustainability services both internally and externally. You will work closely with the design & construction teams to deliver a full range of ecological services such as habitat and species surveys, ECoW support, impact assessment, licensing & mitigation, and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments. Biodiversity Net Gain is a massive growth area for the business.

Key Responsibilities

Co-ordinating and delivering a range of office and site-based ecological services, including habitat/species surveys, ECoW support, impact assessment, licensing & mitigation, and BNG assessments.

  • Producing accurate reports in a range of formats with an appropriate level of technical content for the intended audience and application.
  • Providing specialist ecological advice and training to contract/project teams and clients to assist them in effectively managing ecological risks and opportunities.
  • Reviewing and approving a range of reports and other project deliverables to provide quality assurance.
  • Compiling and implementing licence applications and other ecological consents, including mitigation and monitoring strategies.
  • Liaising with statutory authorities and establishing positive, trusted relationships.
  • Engaging and co-ordinating support from external consultants as required.
  • Managing other Ecologists, providing appropriate direction to support their development and high performance.
  • Formulating fee proposals covering environmental support as well as managing time allocation of self and others in accordance with agreed Task Orders and utilisation targets.
  • Supporting the growth and performance of the Environmental Technical Team through delivery and business development, whilst overseeing and leading the strategic direction of the ecology function and undertaking recruitment to meet resource needs.

Skills & Knowledge Required

  • Degree level qualification in an environmental or related subject (desirable).
  • At least 3 years experience in construction / infrastructure sectors or related industries (desirable).
  • Proficient in field surveys including UK Habitat Classification assessment, BNG condition assessment, and protected species surveys.
  • Proven track record of co-ordinating and delivering a range of office and site-based ecological services to achieve positive project outcomes.
  • Attention to detail and the ability to manage projects, resources, programmes, and budgets effectively.
  • Personable with excellent written and verbal communication skills and the capability to engage a range of stakeholders on ecology/biodiversity matters.
  • Practical and pragmatic approach in delivering ecological solutions.
  • Experience of training, mentoring, developing, and/or managing direct reports/other colleagues (desirable).

Benefits Include:

  • 28 days Holiday + 8 Bank holidays + holiday purchase scheme
  • Company car or car allowance
  • Generous pension scheme & life assurance
  • Employee discount platform
  • Ongoing Career Development & Training Including Recognised Industry Qualifications

Vacancy Details

Location:
Cambridgeshire
Type:
Permanent
Salary:
£50,000 - £55,000 per annum
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