Ecologist

Ocean to Earth Recruitment is proud to partner with our client, a well-established and award-winning multidisciplinary consultancy, to find a Consultant Ecologist to join their expanding team. Our client is a Platinum Investor in People, recognized for their commitment to employee development and excellence. They are known for delivering high-quality ecological and environmental consultancy services across various sectors and have built a strong reputation for handling complex and challenging projects that benefit clients, the environment, and local communities.

We are seeking an enthusiastic Consultant Ecologist to support the team in delivering a variety of ecological projects. This is a full-time, permanent position based in Bradford on Avon (near Bath), with hybrid working options available (three days in the office/on-site and two days working from home).

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct protected species and botanical/habitat surveys and condition assessments.

• Produce robust Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) reports, species survey reports, and technical notes.

• Assist with Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs), BREEAM assessments, and Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRAs).

• Act as an Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) for a range of projects.

• Undertake Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments using the statutory metric and work with clients to ensure habitat design proposals meet BNG legislation and planning policy requirements.

• Prepare Biodiversity Gain Plans and Habitat Management & Monitoring Plans (HMMPs).

• Assist with European Protected Species (EPS) licence applications and supervision.

• Manage small-scale projects and contribute to larger multidisciplinary projects.

What We’re Looking For

• A graduate or postgraduate degree in a relevant subject and CIEEM membership.

• 2-3 years of relevant experience, preferably within an ecological consultancy, with at least one year at Ecologist level.

• Experience conducting field surveys and producing robust ecological reports.

• Familiarity with Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments and using the statutory metric (training available if required).

• Protected species survey licences (especially for bats, Level 1 or 2) would be an advantage.

• Strong botanical identification skills (FISC Level 3 or 4 preferred).

• A solid understanding of the UK planning system, ecological legislation, and protected species survey methodologies.

• A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle insured for business use.

• Experience in project management, site supervision, and collaboration with clients, junior staff, subcontractors, and seasonal survey assistants.

• Excellent attention to detail and strong written and verbal communication skills.

What’s on Offer

Our client provides an exciting and supportive working environment, with opportunities for career growth and professional development. Benefits include:

• Competitive salary (£27K - £31K, depending on experience).

• Annual performance-based bonus.

• Flexible working arrangements (three days in the office/on-site, two days from home).

• A balanced approach to the survey season, ensuring appropriate recovery time.

• Collaborative team environment, working with a friendly and experienced group of ecologists.

• Contributory pension scheme (after three months).

• Private healthcare plan and employee health cash plan (post-probation).

• 28 days annual leave, plus Bank Holidays.

• Up to five days external CPD allowance per year, alongside internal training and work-shadowing opportunities.

• Company sick pay scheme (post-probation).

• Cycle to work scheme.

• CIEEM membership fees covered, plus support for membership upgrades.

• Payment of renewal fees for NE survey licences.

• Access to company and/or hire vehicles, with business mileage reimbursement.

• Company laptop and iPhone.

• Full PPE provided.

How to Apply

If you are a passionate Consultant Ecologist looking to grow your career within a dynamic and supportive consultancy, we’d love to hear from you! Apply today to be part of an organisation committed to delivering innovative, sustainable, and high-quality ecological solutions.