Ecologist or Senior Ecologist (Nicholas Pearson Associates)

Nicholas Pearson Associates is an established and respected consultancy with complementary expertise in ecology, landscape architecture and visualisation. We take a collaborative approach to our work and we enjoy working on projects ranging from local and small scale to large, multi-phased schemes. We are part of the Global Ecology and Environment Group of companies, helping to grow a 'best-in-class' environmental consultancy with an increasingly broad remit.

Our highly regarded ecologists provide the full spectrum of ecological services whilst maintaining excellent professional standards together with a high degree of scientific integrity. We have a wide variety of exciting and challenging projects and an established client base.

We are seeking an ambitious Ecologist or an Ecologist ready to step into a Senior level role to join our existing team in our Bath office. They will want, with guidance, to take on a range of projects of their own. They will also want to learn more about the profession and our multi-disciplinary consultancy whilst supporting more senior staff and working alongside our graduates. There will be opportunities for training and career development. The ideal candidate will have a passion for the environment and a curiosity about multi-disciplinary working and particularly collaborating closely with our in-house team of Landscape Architects.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct field surveys including extended habitat surveys for Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA) and protected species surveys such as bat, badger, reptiles, great crested newt, hazel dormouse (skills/licence dependant)
• Draft / contribute to high-quality ecological reports, developing skills in ecological assessment
• Support habitat surveys & mapping, Biodiversity Net Gain calculations and data analysis
• Assist in preparation of mitigation strategies and development license applications for Protected Species
• Assist in design of ecological enhancements, Biodiversity Net Gain proposals and production of habitat management plans
• Liaise effectively with colleagues across our Landscape Architecture and Visualisation teams
• Liaise effectively with clients, regulators, and stakeholders.

We are looking for someone with

• BSc or MSc in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field
• 3+ years of relevant experience
• Knowledge of wildlife legislation, best practise survey and mitigation guidance
• Experience of carrying out protected species surveys, including bat surveys.
• Experience of working on protected species licences.
• Able to carry out baseline/ extended habitat surveys. Ideally at least FISC Level 3 or above, with solid habitat assessment knowledge
• Understanding of PEA and BNG workflows. Ideally able to carry out assessments with limited guidance at standard sites.
• A good communicator, keen to develop, work flexibility and collaborate with colleagues of a variety of disciplines.
• Good report writing skills
• Willingness to work flexible hours during survey season. Some evening/night working will be required, and a flexible TOIL system is in place.
• Willingness to travel (from time to time) however we also benefit from having a good proportion of local work.
• CIEEM Associate (ACIEEM) or Full (MCIEEM) membership or working toward it
• Full UK driving license and own vehicle
• Experience of ecological watching briefs / Ecological Clerk of Works beneficial
• CSCS card is desirable
• GIS skills beneficial, but training will be provided

For a senior level position that person would also have experience in

• Carrying out a range of ecological survey and assessment independently, including Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA)
• Project management and client relationship management
• Experience of Habitats Regulations Assessment and/or Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) projects beneficial

We have a blended working approach which allows some home working flexibility but requires office presence each week. Parttime/flexible working will be considered. We keep a happy office environment in a beautiful rural location close to Bristol and Bath with free on-site car parking. Employment includes a generous benefits package, details can be provided on request.