Graduate Ecologist x2

ABR Ecology have two fixed-term contract positions open to join our team between now -30th October 2024. We are currently seeking 2 Graduate Ecologists £23,000+ pa pro rata (negotiable dependent upon experience).

The positions are office-based, with our office located in Verwood, Dorset. Flexible home working is also required with laptops provided and working from home expenses subsidised. A Workplace Pension Scheme is also provided through Nest. 

There is potential to extend into permanent positions at the end of the 2024 season for successful candidates. The roles would ideally suit candidates who have graduated within the last three years and are looking to gain experience in Ecological Consultancy. 

About ABR Ecology

ABR Ecology are a small, friendly consultancy based in Verwood, Dorset working throughout the South West. Our work includes a wide variety of exciting projects ranging from small-scale homeowner developments to more
complex and challenging projects. We have a specialist expertise in bats although conduct a range of surveys and reports for small through to large scale housing developments. We are a close-knit team currently consisting of six full-time members and one part-time member of staff, with seasonal support sought throughout our busy summer season. We are now looking for seasonal support as the company continues to grow. 

Graduate Ecologist Level (x 2 positions available) 

Full-time 37.5 hrs per week with Time Off In Lieu (TOIL) scheme for any overtime hours
worked. Fixed-term seasonal contract with potential to extend to permanent roles for the right candidates and working hours during the summer months (particularly May and August) are expected to be long. 

The Graduate Ecologist role involves assisting our more senior members of staff with surveys including Phase 1 Habitat surveys, Preliminary Roost Appraisals (PRA) surveys, bat emergence surveys and reptile surveys and translocation. Other fieldwork may include assistance on dormouse, water vole and otter surveys. As a Graduate Ecologist, you will be expected to help prepare biological data searches and basic reports including bat reports, Ecological Appraisals and typing up field notes as part of a team.
You will be expected to prepare for surveys such as preparing relevant maps, survey forms etc.
The fieldwork is mainly based in and around the southwest, but may be further afield on
occasion. 

Essential Skills – Graduate Ecologist Level

• Excellent time management.
• A general understanding of current relevant UK Wildlife law.
• Confident working with computers (using Microsoft Office) and other technology e.g. using tablets for bat emergence surveys.
• Good communication skills – ability to liaise with other team members and clients by phone/email and in person.
• Experience of report writing with attention to detail.
• Well-organised, self-motivated and able to work both independently and as part of a team.

Desirable Skills – Graduate Ecologist Level (not mandatory – training will be provided where required)

• Degree in Ecology or related field.
• Experience of ecological surveys (in particular carrying out bat emergence/re-entry surveys and using bat detectors).
• Experience of Preliminary Ecological Appraisals / Phase 1 Habitat surveys.
• Experience in writing up ecological reports.
• Experience in using QGIS.
• Qualifying member of CIEEM or working towards membership.
• In the process of working towards personal Class licences for protected species (e.g. bats, great crested newts and dormice).

Essential Practical Requirements

• Full, clean UK driving licence & access to car insured for business use.
• Dorset/Hampshire based (ideally Bournemouth area but will consider all areas – the candidate will need to relocate if from further afield).
• Ability to carry out fieldwork and work during unsociable hours including dusk/dawn times (where possible we try to prevent any weekend working). Working over some Bank Holidays will also be required.

ABR Ecology are committed to providing a supportive working environment with a competitive
salary, in addition to ongoing opportunities for CPD and training offered for permanent members
of staff. If extending into a permanent position, support and training will be offered towards
obtaining Class licences for protected species for the right candidates.

ABR Ecology Ltd is an equal opportunities employer and will consider all candidates with the right experience from all backgrounds.

To apply, please send your CV and cover letter to Phil at [email protected]

If you have any questions about the roles, please get in touch with Phil at [email protected]