Ecologist

Our client is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Ecologist to join their successful Ecology team as an Ecology Consultant. They have openings in Leeds, Manchester, or Gateshead, with flexible hybrid working arrangements. If you have strong experience in Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), they are particularly eager to hear from you.

Role Responsibilities:

• Conduct extended phase 1 habitat surveys/UK Habitat Classification surveys to accurately describe and map habitats, assessing their potential to support notable/protected species.
• Undertake surveys for legally protected species.
• Produce a range of high-quality ecological reports, including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals and Ecological Impact Assessments.
• Liaise with clients, professional advisors, contractors, and the general public.
• Build and maintain effective working relationships at all levels within the business, with clients, subcontractors, and other third parties, including regulators and statutory consultees.
• Embody the client's values of integrity, commitment, empowerment, sustainability, wellbeing, and innovation.

Ideal Candidate:

• 2+ years of experience as a professional ecological consultant.
• Strong ecological field skills covering a range of protected species and habitats.
• Solid understanding of the legislative and planning policy framework related to ecology and nature conservation.
• Strong experience with Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG).
• Ability to write concise, high-quality technical reports in line with CIEEM guidelines.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject.
• Qualifying membership of CIEEM (or higher).
• Full UK manual driving licence.
• Knowledge of the Defra Biodiversity Metric and UK Habitat Classification.
• Any Natural England survey licence (Level 1 or above).
• Commitment to work towards BSBI FISC (Level 3 or above).

Benefits:

Our client believes in fostering a positive work environment where employees can thrive and grow. Their benefits include:

• 24 days of annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Employer-matched pension contribution scheme.
• Life assurance.
• Employee Assistance Programme – 24/7 support.
• Wellbeing centre – access to healthy eating ideas, workouts, and meditation guides.
• Discounts & cashback platform – deals from over 800 retailers.
• Referral bonus for bringing in talented individuals.
• Healthcare cashback scheme – claim back on everyday healthcare bills and access GP services 24/7.
• Enhanced parental leave.
• Electric car salary sacrifice scheme.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Participation in environmental initiatives like World Environment Day.
• Regular social events and charity sports events.
• Opportunities for long-term career development across 12 specialist sectors.

About the Company:

Our client is a purpose-driven company dedicated to protecting people and the planet. With a nationwide presence and over 500 employees, they facilitate sustainable development for clients across 12 key sectors worldwide, offering risk mitigation services through inspection, assessment, and advisory services. Their commitment to quality is reflected in ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 accreditations.

Joining them means becoming part of a like-minded community with a shared vision of protecting people and the environment. They are committed to treating all individuals fairly and equally, fostering an inclusive and open environment.

If you’re passionate about making a positive difference to the environment and are ready to contribute to their mission, they’d love to hear from you!