At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead ecological projects and mentor a team of ecologists in a collaborative environment.
- Company: Respected ecological consultancy based in beautiful rural Derbyshire.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, flexible working, and unlimited training budget.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on diverse ecological projects while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Minimum four years' experience in ecological consultancy and strong project management skills.
- Other info: Friendly culture with extensive social events and genuine progression opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 45000 Β£ per year.
Bennett & Game are pleased to be representing a highly respected ecological consultancy seeking to appoint a Senior Ecologist to join their Derbyshire office. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and mature ecologist to lead and deliver high-quality ecological services, managing a team of five ecologists while working closely with Principals and Associates on a diverse portfolio of projects. The role offers genuine progression within a company that values its people, reflected through a highly impressive and well-structured benefits package.
Salary & Benefits
- Salary: Β£40,000 - Β£45,000
- 28 days per year of holiday plus an additional week of annual leave over Christmas.
- Christmas bonus.
- A supportive and flexible working environment, including TOIL, extended holidays, and company bank holidays.
- A traditional consultancy culture - no HS2 work - with an engaging, collaborative team based in a beautiful rural Derbyshire office.
- Competitive remuneration package with paid overtime and a well-structured TOIL system to ensure work-life balance.
- Company laptop, iPhone, full PPE and survey kit, plus access to a fleet of company vehicles.
- Unlimited training budget with both internal and external CPD opportunities, supported by an experienced management structure and dedicated HR and Health & Safety teams.
- Opportunity to contribute to diverse, high-profile ecological projects across the UK.
- Length of Service rewards, including private healthcare, additional annual leave up to 5 days, and personalised gifts.
- Extensive social calendar.
- A genuinely friendly and supportive working culture, where collaboration and personal development are actively encouraged.
Job Overview
- Lead and deliver a range of complex ecological reports, including Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments.
- Oversee the preparation and submission of European Protected Species Mitigation (EPSM) licences and other relevant environmental permits.
- Manage the strategic ecological input across a variety of projects, collaborating closely with in-house Landscape, Arboricultural, Drainage, and Heritage consultants.
- Undertake and supervise ecological surveys, ensuring accurate data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
- Mentor, support, and develop junior team members while managing a small team within the wider Ecology department.
- Contribute to the preparation of fee proposals, tenders, and project quotations.
- Maintain an up-to-date understanding of UK and European wildlife legislation, planning policy, and best practice guidance.
- Liaise confidently with clients, statutory authorities, and key stakeholders to ensure professional delivery and compliance on all projects.
Job Requirements
- A minimum of four years' professional experience within ecological consultancy or a closely related field.
- Proven capability in producing high-quality technical reports, including Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments and mitigation licence applications.
- Demonstrable experience in project management, with strong client communication and coordination skills.
- Experience in staff management or mentoring, with the ability to support and develop junior team members.
- Possession of at least one protected species survey licence (e.g., bats, great crested newt, or dormouse).
- Associate or Full membership of CIEEM, or actively working towards this level of professional accreditation.
- Proficiency in GIS or other mapping software.
- Comprehensive knowledge of UK ecology, wildlife legislation, and planning policy.
- Full UK (manual) driving licence and willingness to travel for fieldwork as required.
Senior Ecologist employer: Bennett and Game Recruitment LTD
Contact Detail:
Bennett and Game Recruitment LTD Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Senior Ecologist
β¨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with other ecologists and professionals in the field. Attend industry events, join online forums, or even hit up local meetups. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Senior Ecologist role.
β¨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your best work, including reports and projects you've led. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let them see what you're capable of β itβs a great way to stand out from the crowd.
β¨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Before any interviews, do some mock interviews with friends or colleagues. Focus on common questions for ecologists and be ready to discuss your experience with BNG assessments and project management. Confidence is key!
β¨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! Weβve got loads of resources to help you prepare and make your application shine. Plus, applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over others. Donβt miss out on this opportunity to join a fantastic team in Derbyshire!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Ecologist
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Ecologist role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in producing high-quality technical reports and managing projects. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about ecology and how your background makes you a great fit for our team. Don't forget to mention any specific projects or experiences that relate to the job description.
Showcase Your Team Spirit: Since you'll be leading a team of ecologists, it's important to demonstrate your leadership and mentoring skills. Share examples of how you've supported junior team members or collaborated with others in past roles. We love a good team player!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. Itβs the best way for us to receive your application and ensures youβre considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our company culture and values!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bennett and Game Recruitment LTD
β¨Know Your Ecology Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK ecology, wildlife legislation, and planning policy. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, especially those involving Biodiversity Net Gain assessments or Environmental Impact Assessments. This will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
β¨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves managing a team, be prepared to talk about your experience in mentoring and supporting junior ecologists. Share examples of how you've led projects or improved team dynamics. Highlighting your ability to manage and develop others will set you apart from other candidates.
β¨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions related to ecological surveys and report writing. Review your past reports and be ready to explain your methodologies and findings. If you have experience with GIS or mapping software, make sure to mention it and discuss how you've used these tools in your work.
β¨Engage with the Interviewers
Don't forget that interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's projects, culture, and opportunities for professional development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.