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- Tasks: Lead innovative ecological solutions and manage diverse projects for biodiversity enhancement.
- Company: Leading consultancy with a strong focus on environmental impact and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and continuous professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on nature-positive projects while advancing your career in ecology.
- Qualifications: Passion for ecology, strong BNG knowledge, and excellent botanical skills required.
- Other info: Join a diverse team and influence ecological policy at a national level.
Salary: £50,000 - 60,000 (dependent on experience)
Location: UK (flexible)
Type: Permanent Hybrid working available
About the Role: Our client is seeking a motivated Senior or Principal Ecologist with strong expertise in Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) to lead and deliver innovative ecological solutions. You will work on a variety of development and nature recovery projects, from baseline and feasibility assessments to post-works evaluations. This position offers the opportunity to influence design at all stages, ensuring that ecological considerations are embedded from the outset. You will also mentor colleagues, manage projects, and contribute to work winning and client engagement.
About the Client: Our client is a leading consultancy known for delivering major infrastructure and environmental projects that make a real impact. Their 130-strong ecology team works collaboratively across disciplines to deliver nature-positive outcomes. They offer an inclusive, flexible and supportive environment where wellbeing, diversity and professional growth are prioritised.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and undertake BNG assessments, including feasibility, baseline and post-works analyses.
- Prepare and review Habitat Management and Monitoring Plans (HMMPs).
- Develop pragmatic ecological mitigation and compensation strategies.
- Undertake and assure ecological deliverables in line with current best practice.
- Provide technical leadership and mentorship to team members.
- Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and maintain strong client relationships.
- Manage ecological deliverables from bidding to project completion.
- Oversee project budgets, timelines and quality assurance.
What Our Client is Looking For:
- Passion for ecology and biodiversity enhancement.
- Strong knowledge of BNG policy, legislation and application.
- Excellent botanical identification skills (preferably FISC Level 4 or equivalent).
- Competence with GIS and other geospatial tools.
- Experience of ecological assessment, mitigation and licensing.
- Skilled in ecological report writing and delivery of HMMPs.
- Chartered (CEnv or CEcol) or able to achieve chartership.
- Full UK driving licence.
What Our Client Offers:
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Flexible and hybrid working options.
- Inclusive, people-centred culture.
- Continuous professional development and training support.
- Opportunities to work on high-profile, nature-positive projects.
- Recognition of diverse educational and career backgrounds.
Eligibility:
Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. Some roles may require eligibility for UK security clearance (minimum 5 years' UK residency).
Opportunity for Growth:
This is a fantastic opportunity to step into a senior or principal role with a clear progression route into leadership. You will influence policy, guide national-scale projects and contribute to the evolution of BNG practice across the UK. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Senior / Principal Ecologist (BNG Specialist) in Southampton employer: Advance Training & Recruitment Services
Contact Detail:
Advance Training & Recruitment Services Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior / Principal Ecologist (BNG Specialist) in Southampton
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with fellow ecologists and industry professionals. Attend conferences, workshops, or local meet-ups to build relationships that could lead to job opportunities. Remember, it’s not just about what you know, but who you know!
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Create a portfolio that highlights your best work in biodiversity net gain and ecological assessments. Use this as a conversation starter during interviews or networking events. It’s a great way to demonstrate your skills and passion for the field!
✨Prepare for Interviews
Research the company and its projects thoroughly before your interview. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in BNG. Practise common interview questions and prepare some thoughtful questions of your own to show your interest.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out our website for the latest job openings! Applying directly through us can give you an edge, as we often have exclusive listings and insights into the hiring process. Let’s get you that dream job together!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior / Principal Ecologist (BNG Specialist) in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience with Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects and achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for ecology and how you can contribute to our client's mission. We love seeing enthusiasm and a personal touch, so let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to mention your technical skills, especially in GIS and ecological report writing. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so make sure we know what you bring to the table!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Advance Training & Recruitment Services
✨Know Your BNG Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain policies and legislation. Be prepared to discuss how you've applied these in past projects, as well as any innovative solutions you've developed. This will show your passion and expertise in the field.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Since this role involves managing ecological deliverables from bidding to completion, be ready to share specific examples of projects you've led. Highlight your experience with budgets, timelines, and quality assurance to demonstrate your capability in overseeing complex projects.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face technical questions related to ecological assessments and mitigation strategies. Brush up on your botanical identification skills and be ready to discuss your experience with GIS and geospatial tools. This will help you stand out as a knowledgeable candidate.
✨Emphasise Your Mentorship Experience
As mentoring is a key part of this role, think of examples where you've guided or supported colleagues. Discuss how you've contributed to their professional growth and how you plan to foster a collaborative environment within the team.
