At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead ecological surveys and manage your own projects while mentoring junior ecologists.
- Company: Join a dynamic team in a leading ecological consultancy with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, private medical insurance, and continuous professional development.
- Other info: Hybrid role with a mix of fieldwork and office-based tasks, plus excellent career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the environment while advancing your career in ecology.
- Qualifications: Degree in ecology, experience in project management, and strong botanical ID skills.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
About The Role
Are you an Ecologist and looking for an opportunity to step up and take on more responsibility? Do you enjoy leading surveys and mentoring junior colleagues? Are you looking for variety with a balance of field and office-based work, and ready to progress your career by managing your own projects?
We’re looking for a Senior Ecologist to join our Terrestrial Ecology team based in/around the South East. This is a hybrid role, with around 50% of your time spent in the field, leading protected species and habitat surveys across the South & South East, with the rest of your time desk‑based either working from home or a local office. You’ll also contribute to tenders, reporting and client liaison.
In this role, you’ll combine technical expertise with consultancy delivery. You’ll manage your own small and medium‑scale projects, support complex ecological assessments (PEA, EcIA, ES chapters), and play a key role in maintaining strong client and stakeholder relationships. You’ll also mentor junior staff, helping to develop the next generation of ecologists. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced ecologist who enjoys both technical delivery and leadership, with a clear pathway to Principal Ecologist.
Qualifications
- Full or Associate membership of CIEEM (or eligibility if not currently held).
- Degree or postgraduate degree in a relevant subject, with a strong academic record.
- Botanical ID skills including experience of UK Hab and condition assessments and/or Phase 1 Habitat surveys.
- Experience of writing Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Ecological Impact Assessments and protected species survey reports.
- Experience of leading protected species surveys (e.g. dormice, bats, GCN, otter, water vole, birds etc.).
- Proven work‑winning track record, experience of preparing bids and tenders.
- Experience in project management including client liaison.
- Up‑to‑date overview of EU and UK legislation pertaining to ecology and environmental issues and planning policy.
- At least one protected species survey licence in England and/or Wales (alternatively an experienced botanist FISC level 4 or above).
- A full UK driving licence and ability to travel with some requirement for over‑night stays.
Benefits
You will be offered the chance to work on a variety of projects, many of our employees have worked on projects that have been of personal interest to them. We match this with a commitment to continuous development and learning to support your career. We also offer benefits to look after you, from private medical insurance for all employees, access to mental health first aiders and comprehensive income protection if you cannot work. We also offer superb flexible working options, balancing work with your life.
Senior Ecologist in Crawley employer: APEM
APEM is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With flexible working options and comprehensive benefits like private medical insurance, APEM fosters a supportive environment where you can thrive while leading impactful offshore projects and mentoring the next generation of environmental consultants.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Ecologist in Crawley
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with fellow ecologists and industry professionals. Attend local ecology events, workshops, or even online webinars. Building relationships can lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised!
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, don’t hold back! Share your experiences leading surveys and managing projects. Highlight your botanical ID skills and any successful bids you've prepared. We want to see your passion and expertise shine through!
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every conversation is a chance to tailor your pitch. Research the company and its projects beforehand, so you can discuss how your experience aligns with their needs. This shows you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly. Let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Ecologist in Crawley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Senior Ecologist role. Highlight your project management experience, technical expertise, and any leadership roles you've had. We want to see how you can bring value to our Terrestrial Ecology team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about ecology and how your background makes you the perfect fit for this role. Don’t forget to mention your experience with protected species surveys and mentoring junior staff.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In your application, be sure to highlight your botanical ID skills and experience with ecological assessments. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know about your relevant qualifications and any protected species survey licences you hold.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at APEM
✨Know Your Ecology Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your ecological knowledge, especially regarding UK legislation and protected species. Be ready to discuss your experience with habitat surveys and assessments, as well as any specific projects you've managed.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves mentoring junior colleagues, be prepared to share examples of how you've led teams or projects in the past. Highlight your ability to support others and foster a collaborative environment.
✨Prepare for Client Liaison Questions
Expect questions about your experience with client relationships and project management. Think of specific instances where you've successfully communicated with clients or stakeholders, and be ready to discuss how you handle challenges.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Ecology
Let your enthusiasm for ecology shine through during the interview. Share what excites you about the field and how you stay updated on current trends and issues. This will show that you're not just qualified, but genuinely passionate about the work.
