Ecologist

About us:

We are a small but expanding ecological consultancy based in Shrewsbury. We have been operating
for 35 years in a wide range of disciplines, including ecological assessments, agricultural and
rural environmental management, and woodland/forestry.

Our rapidly expanding workload means that we require a qualified Ecologist to join the team.
Projects take us throughout Shropshire, the Welsh borders, Wales, the West Midlands and
occasionally farther afield.

Much of our work is based in rural and agricultural settings and the successful applicant
should ideally have a background and preferably some relevant experience in these settings.

Whilst operating as part of a small team, we hope you will be comfortable in developing and
managing your own projects where self-reliance and initiative will be needed. We anticipate
that you will be passionate about wildlife and be able to share this with a wide range of
clients through your excellent communication skills.

About you:

Essential:

• Minimum 3 years’ experience working as an ecologist.
• Hold a good degree in ecology or a closely related subject.
• Level 1 bat survey licence in England and Wales (both desired but one acceptable).
• Experience of undertaking protected species surveys, such as those for bats, great crested
  newts or reptiles.
• Experience of undertaking Preliminary Ecological Appraisal, Preliminary Bat Roost
  Assessment, and Ecological Impact Assessment.
• A clear understanding of current issues, opportunities and trends in farming and land
  management.
• Awareness of Agri-Environment schemes, relevant policies and legislation.
• Possess good botanical ID skills.
• Experience of Biodiversity Net Gain Metric survey and assessment, using UKHab.
• Be self-reliant and comfortable with lone-working.
• Be reliable, flexible, and willing to work unsociable hours (unsociable hours between May
  and September for bat surveys).
• Have excellent organisational and timekeeping skills.
• Full UK driving licence and access to own vehicle, insured for business use.
• An understanding of wildlife legislation, planning policy, and processes.
• Excellent written skills and the ability to produce high quality reports.
• Happy to work within a small, friendly team and assist with various projects as they arise.

Desirable:

• Experience using QGIS or ArcGIS for habitat mapping purposes.
• Hold Level 1 GCN survey licence in England and Wales.
• Project management experience.
• Specialism in a particular protected species group.
• Experience of preparing Natural England mitigation licences.
• Member of a professional body such as CIEEM.

What we can offer:

• A budget for paid training courses towards Continuing Professional Development.
• Professional membership paid for.
• 28 paid holiday days (including bank holidays).
• Pension contributions.
• Mileage paid at 45ppm up to 10,000 miles.
• Salary: £28,000-£32,000 depending on experience.

How to apply:

Please reply to [email protected] with a
CV and a covering letter. Please provide details of two referees (these will only be contacted
if you are chosen for interview).

Closing date: 17th May 2024