Principal Ecologist

Are you an experienced ecologist looking for the next step up in your career? Are you looking to increase your exposure to complex and rewarding projects? Do you want to join an established consultancy practice who pride themselves in offering a great place to work? Could you be one of the experienced, talented and energetic professionals helping to continue the development of FPCR, responding to our clients and keeping FPCR moving forwards whilst responding to new challenges in ecological practice?

If so, our Sheffield office is currently looking for an enthusiastic Principal Ecologist to join its growing team and would love to hear from you.

Responsibilities

• Managing projects throughout their life-cycle prior to and post-planning, providing advice on ecology and biodiversity to clients, stakeholders and project teams;
• Planning, leading on and on occasion, conducting ecological surveys;
• Undertaking environmental impact assessments, biodiversity net gain assessments and preparing a range of ecological reports and strategies;
• Designing and implementing appropriate mitigation measures to enhance biodiversity and protect ecological features;
• Supporting and mentoring junior staff, sharing your own knowledge and expertise to develop their skills and knowledge and professional judgement;
• Building and maintaining strong client relationships, as well as with contractors and regulatory bodies

Qualifications

• Degree level or higher in Ecology or related field;
• At least 7-8 years working in ecological consultancy, with proven experience in project management, including large scale and more complex sites, liaising with clients and wider project consultants to deliver outputs efficiently and on time;
• Experienced in advising clients on Biodiversity Net Gain; understanding and use of the DEFRA Statutory Biodiversity Metric and production of associated reports and plans;
• Demonstrable experience in complex report writing, inclusive but not limited to Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), including for Environmental Statements; Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) documents, Species and Habitat Management Plans;
• Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders;
• An advanced knowledge of ecology and wildlife protection in the context of the UK legislative and planning system;
• A level of competency in Microsoft Office software and preferably (although not essential) some knowledge of GIS packages;
• Membership or eligibility to membership of a relevant professional body (eg Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) or other similar);
• A full UK driving licence and access to vehicle;
• Right to work in the UK

Benefits

• Competitive salary with the opportunity for annual bonuses
• Enrolment on pension scheme
• 25 days holiday, compressed working week and a holiday purchase system
• Participation in BUPA health and wellbeing cashback scheme
• Opportunities for professional development and shared learning across the practice
• Volunteer and social activities encouraged

Equal Opportunity Statement

FPCR is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion within the workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their race or gender.