Assistant Ecologist

Salary: £27k - £31k (negotiable)
Contract: Permanent, full time
Location: Kent / Willing to travel

About the role

We're looking for an enthusiastic Assistant Ecologist to join our growing Ecology team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone early in their career who is keen to build strong field and reporting skills while working on a wide range of projects across the South East (and beyond). You'll be supported by experienced ecologists and given the opportunity to develop your technical skills, work towards professional membership and gain exposure to a variety of habitats, species and development projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Assisting with a range of ecological surveys, including (but not limited to):
• Reptiles.
• Birds (breeding and wintering).
• Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA).
• Bats (both emergence surveys and activity surveys).
• Supporting senior staff with data collection, field notes and survey logistics.
• Assisting with report preparation and desk-based research.
• Working safely and professionally on construction and development sites.
• Occasional early mornings, evenings and overnight stays as required by survey work.

Essential Requirements

• A degree (or equivalent) in ecology, conservation, environmental science or a related discipline.
• Voluntary or work-based experience assisting with ecological surveys (e.g. reptiles, birds, habitat surveys).
• A genuine interest in ecology and biodiversity conservation.
• Willingness to travel for survey work, sometimes at short notice.
• Full UK driving licence and access to your own vehicle.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Desirable (but not essential)

• Experience assisting with bat surveys.
• Familiarity with UK wildlife legislation and planning process.
• Membership of CIEEM, or a willingness to work towards membership.

What we offer

• Supportive training and mentoring from experienced ecologists.
• A clear pathway for career development and progression.
• Support towards CIEEM membership and ongoing CPD.
• A friendly, inclusive team environment.
• Flexible working arrangements where possible (outside of survey requirements).

Location

While this role is preferably based in Kent (Canterbury area), candidates must be willing to travel regularly for site work across the region and occasionally further afield.