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- Tasks: Lead ecological projects, mentor teams, and collaborate across disciplines for impactful environmental solutions.
- Company: Join Nicholsons, a forward-thinking company dedicated to positive environmental change and sustainable practices.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days of annual leave, flexible working hours, and a vibrant team culture.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of transformative projects that shape environmental policies and make a real difference.
- Qualifications: Degree in ecology or related field, protected species licence, and experience in project management required.
- Other info: This role is based in either Oxfordshire or Northamptonshire, offering a dynamic work environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This position can be situated at either our Oxfordshire or Northamptonshire office. We are seeking a forward-thinking Principal or Associate level Ecological Consultant to join and guide our dynamic Ecology team. Be at the forefront of transformative environmental projects, drive impactful changes and contribute to sustainable practices across various sectors.
The role will involve:
- Leading with Vision: As the lead Ecological Consultant, you will be the technical and professional cornerstone of clients' projects, guiding the team toward innovative ecological solutions.
- Mentorship and Growth: Inspire and cultivate the next wave of environmental experts by promoting a culture of learning, inclusion, and development.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work closely with sister disciplines in Arboriculture, Forestry and Landscape Design; embracing a holistic approach to project challenges.
- Diverse and Meaningful Projects: From pioneering land management strategies to contributing to development projects, your work will seek to help clients achieve the best results.
- High-Level Influence: With our extensive network and ties to industry leaders, we have the chance to shape environmental policies and initiatives on a broader scale.
The ideal candidate will:
- Have a passion for the protection and enhancement of our planet.
- Hold a degree in ecology, environmental science or a similarly related subject.
- Hold at least one protected species licence (bats or dormice preferred).
- Be a full member of CIEEM or working towards full membership.
- Sound understanding of current environmental legislation and the planning system.
- Experience in working with the DEFRA Biodiversity Metric.
- Experience in site appraisal, with demonstrable botanical ID skills (FISC Level 3 or above).
- Proven experience in project management, including larger and more complex sites.
- Experience in managing survey teams and/or subcontractors and the use of technical survey equipment.
- Experience being a named ecologist, alternative contact or accredited agent within species mitigation licences (bats preferred).
- Experience in designing and implementing mitigation for development projects.
Desirable:
- Advanced skills in at least one specialist area of ecology, for example, botany.
- Registered under the Natural England Bat Class Licence / Earned Recognition schemes.
- Experience in leading more complex reporting work such as BREEAM, Habitat Regulations Assessments, or EIA chapters.
- Chartered membership of CIEEM or demonstrably approaching this level.
- Experience in driving technological improvements in ecology consultancy, e.g. electronic data collection or GIS mapping, bioacoustics, or advanced NVA set-ups.
Role-specific benefits: 26 days annual leave (plus bank holidays). This is a full-time role, Monday to Friday, 40 hours per week. At Nicholsons, our commitment to delivering positive environmental change is woven into every aspect of our work, embodying our values of dedication, creativity, and passion for the planet.
Principal/Associate Ecological Consultant employer: Nicholsons
Contact Detail:
Nicholsons Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal/Associate Ecological Consultant
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the ecology field, especially those who are already working at StudySmarter or similar organisations. Attend industry events, workshops, and seminars to make connections and learn about the latest trends and challenges in ecological consultancy.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills by engaging in community projects or initiatives related to ecology. This not only demonstrates your commitment to environmental issues but also highlights your ability to mentor and inspire others, which is crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with the DEFRA Biodiversity Metric and current environmental legislation. Being well-versed in these areas will allow you to speak confidently about how you can contribute to projects and help clients navigate complex regulations.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider developing advanced skills in technology relevant to ecology consultancy, such as GIS mapping or bioacoustics. Highlighting your proficiency in these areas can set you apart from other candidates and show your commitment to innovative solutions.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal/Associate Ecological Consultant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in ecology and environmental science. Emphasise your project management skills, any protected species licences you hold, and your understanding of current environmental legislation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for environmental protection and how your background aligns with the role. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your leadership and mentorship abilities.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Clearly outline your technical skills, such as botanical identification and experience with the DEFRA Biodiversity Metric. Highlight any advanced skills in areas like GIS mapping or bioacoustics that could set you apart.
Demonstrate Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with other disciplines, such as Arboriculture or Landscape Design, to tackle complex ecological challenges. This will show your ability to work within a team and contribute to holistic project solutions.
How to prepare for a job interview at Nicholsons
✨Show Your Passion for Ecology
Make sure to express your genuine passion for environmental protection and enhancement during the interview. Share personal experiences or projects that highlight your commitment to sustainability, as this will resonate well with the company's values.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Principal or Associate Ecological Consultant, you'll be expected to lead and mentor others. Prepare examples of how you've successfully guided teams in the past, focusing on your ability to inspire and cultivate talent within the field.
✨Highlight Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Discuss your experience working with other disciplines such as Arboriculture, Forestry, and Landscape Design. Emphasise your ability to embrace a holistic approach to project challenges, showcasing how collaboration has led to successful outcomes in your previous roles.
✨Be Prepared to Discuss Technical Expertise
Given the technical nature of the role, be ready to talk about your experience with protected species licences, biodiversity metrics, and site appraisals. Highlight any advanced skills you possess, especially in areas like botany or technological improvements in ecology consultancy.
