At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team maintaining solar farms while enhancing biodiversity and managing civils responsibilities.
- Company: Astute’s Renewables team, a leader in renewable energy operations across the UK and Europe.
- Benefits: Salary up to £38,000, company vehicle, 25 days holiday, private healthcare, and training provided.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on renewable energy projects while developing your ecology skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in Ecology or related field; practical experience is a plus.
- Other info: Flexible outdoor work with opportunities for career growth and wellbeing programmes.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Astute’s Renewables team is partnering with an Operations and Maintenance specialist supporting utility-scale ground-mounted solar farms across the UK and Europe. We are seeking an Ecology and Civils Operative to join the team, helping maintain, manage, and enhance solar farm sites while delivering key biodiversity and civils responsibilities.
This role offers a salary of up to £38,000 depending on experience, along with a company vehicle and fuel card. If you are new to the ecology field or a CIEEM-accredited professional seeking hands-on experience and exposure to renewable energy projects, this role offers the opportunity to develop your skills within a supportive and experienced team.
Responsibilities and Duties- Ecology and Biodiversity
- Provide expert advice on site biodiversity in collaboration with the Line Manager.
- Conduct biodiversity surveys across sites, including Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments and reporting.
- Implement and advise on biodiversity improvements and enhancements.
- Support delivery of Landscape and Ecological Management Plans (LEMPs) and Biodiversity Management Plans (BMPs) for solar farm sites.
- Contribute to the Integrated Management System to uphold quality, safety, and environmental objectives.
- Prepare proposals and reports on biodiversity initiatives for internal and client review.
- Civils Operative Support
- Assist with ongoing maintenance of solar farm sites in line with PPM schedules.
- Take responsibility for planting, establishment and care of new plants, grass cutting and strimming on site grounds.
- Carry out targeted weed management and spraying as required.
- Assist with routine maintenance and operation of site machinery.
- Manage, store and safely use all substances in line with COSHH Compliance.
- Support with other installation tasks including cable trenching.
- Repair and replace perimeter fencing, posts and wires as needed.
- Work in accordance with company policies, procedures, and site-specific Health & Safety requirements.
- Full, clean UK driving licence.
- A professional degree (or equivalent qualification) in Ecology, Environmental Science, Agriculture, Land Management, or a related discipline.
- Membership of CIEEM (Student, Qualifying, or Associate level preferred).
- Practical land-based or ecological field experience, supported by LANTRA or equivalent qualifications (e.g. tractor driving, brush cutting, City & Guilds / PA weed spraying), would be advantageous.
- Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- A strong team player with excellent communication skills.
- Flexible to travel to sites, including occasional overnight stays.
- A practical, proactive, and “can-do” mindset.
- Salary up to £38,000 depending on experience.
- Access to company van and tools.
- 25 days Holiday (Plus Bank Holidays).
- Additional holiday with long service.
- Private healthcare, pension, and discretionary bonus.
- Wellbeing programmes.
- Life insurance.
- Critical Illness insurance.
- Death in service.
- Training Provided.
Ecologist and Civils Operative employer: ASTUTE Technical Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
ASTUTE Technical Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Ecologist and Civils Operative
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the ecology and renewable energy sectors. Attend local events or join online forums where you can connect with industry professionals. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Get your hands dirty! Volunteer for projects related to ecology or civils work. This not only boosts your CV but also shows potential employers that you're passionate and proactive about gaining experience in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Tailor your approach! When you find a role that excites you, research the company and its values. Use this info to craft a personal pitch when you reach out directly. Show them why you’re the perfect fit for their team!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you. Plus, applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other candidates. So, what are you waiting for? Get applying!
We think you need these skills to ace Ecologist and Civils Operative
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Ecologist and Civils Operative role. Highlight any relevant qualifications, especially in Ecology or Environmental Science, and don’t forget to mention your practical experience!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about ecology and renewable energy. Share specific examples of your past work that relate to biodiversity management or civils responsibilities.
Show Off Your Team Spirit: We love team players! In your application, mention experiences where you’ve worked collaboratively. Whether it’s in a professional setting or during your studies, showing that you can communicate and work well with others is key.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at ASTUTE Technical Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your Ecology Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of biodiversity and ecology principles. Be ready to discuss specific examples of biodiversity surveys or projects you've been involved in, as well as any relevant qualifications like CIEEM membership.
✨Show Your Practical Skills
Since this role involves hands-on work, be prepared to talk about your practical experience with land management and ecological fieldwork. Highlight any relevant certifications, like LANTRA qualifications, and share stories that showcase your 'can-do' attitude.
✨Understand the Company’s Values
Research Astute and their commitment to renewable energy and biodiversity. Be ready to explain how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their mission of enhancing solar farm sites.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the team. Inquire about the types of biodiversity initiatives they’re currently working on or how they measure success in their ecological projects. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.