Senior Ecologist

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Ecologist to join our Ecology Offers Team. In this key role you will lead on the identification, assessment and development of early stage Habitat Bank opportunities across England, with a particular focus on your defined geographical region. You will focus on feasibility and concept design of Habitat Banks, supporting the delivery of ecologically robust and commercially viable proposals. This role suits a strategic minded ecologist who is an excellent communicator.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the appraisal and progression of Habitat Bank opportunities from initial enquiry through to commercial offer stage, ensuring delivery against agreed timelines and objectives, with support where required.
• Undertake ecological surveys, including site walkovers, UK Habitat Classification, habitat condition assessments.
• Complete early stage feasibility assessments, considering ecological potential, risks, constraints, suitability for Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), and likely deliverability.
• Manage and prioritise a pipeline of opportunities based on ecological value, strategic fit, commercial viability, and readiness to progress.
• Analyse ecological data and complete Biodiversity Net Gain assessments using the Statutory Biodiversity Metric to determine baseline units and uplift potential.
• Develop concept Habitat Bank designs, setting out habitat creation and enhancement opportunities.
• Produce high quality written outputs, GIS mapping, and clear recommendations to support commercial offers and communicate ecological opportunities to landowners.
• Build effective relationships with landowners, stakeholders, and internal commercial teams, supporting negotiations, site visits, and promotion of Habitat Bank opportunities.

EDI & Belonging

At the heart of Environment Bank are the people, who make it all possible. We employ individuals, who share the same passion to live our mission and values. We welcome individuals from all backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures, and experiences. We are committed to creating an environment where everyone is valued and respected, free from discrimination based on race, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or expression, or any other legally protected status.

Skills and Experience

You are passionate about ecology and motivated by delivering meaningful biodiversity outcomes through practical, evidence based work. To be successful in this role, you will bring the following skills and experience:

• Bachelor's degree in ecology, environmental science, biology or a related discipline.
• Full or Associate CIEEM membership.
• FISC Level 3 (ideally Level 4) or equivalent botanical competency.
• Demonstrable experience conducting ecological surveys and Biodiversity Net Gain assessments, including use of the Statutory Biodiversity Metric and GIS software.
• Strong understanding of UK ecology, including species identification, habitat classification and conservation priorities.
• Experience in early stage project feasibility, site appraisal and habitat planning, with strong analytical and problem solving skills to interpret ecological data and provide evidence based recommendations.
• Valid UK driving licence and willingness to travel to project sites across the country.

Benefits

• Performance based annual bonus up to 10% of salary.
• Pension scheme with employer matched contributions at 6% of salary.
• 30 days of annual leave, plus paid bank holidays, birthday, and wellbeing day; option to purchase 5 additional days after probation.
• Hybrid flexible working options; regional and departmental team co working days.
• Expenses paid whole company meet twice a year.
• Team fundraising and charity events.
• Ongoing career development with training and mentoring.
• Medical cash back scheme to cover everyday healthcare costs.
• Employee assistance mental wellbeing support.
• Enhanced sickness pay allowance.