At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct ecological assessments and manage your own projects with support from a collaborative team.
- Company: Join BNG Group, a values-led ecological consultancy making a real impact in the South West.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, 28 days leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy autonomy with support and mentoring in a dynamic work environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a growing consultancy while working on meaningful ecological projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in ecological consultancy tasks and strong report-writing skills required.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 29000 £ per year.
Somerset / South West | Hybrid (Home-based with Taunton office days) £26,000–£33,000 depending on experience | Permanent | Full-time
About Us
BNG Group is a growing ecological consultancy delivering high-quality ecological and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) services across the South West. We are not corporate, but we are professional, values-led, and serious about doing good ecological work properly. This is an opportunity to join at an early stage and genuinely influence how the business operates and grows.
The Role
We are seeking a competent, delivery-focused Consultant Ecologist who can work confidently on their own projects while being fully supported as part of a small, collaborative team. You will have real responsibility and autonomy, alongside clear line management, mentoring and technical support where needed.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver PEAs, PRAs and baseline BNG assessments (including habitat and condition assessments).
- Undertake protected species surveys where competent, including bat surveys.
- Analyse bat survey data and contribute to bat-related reporting.
- Produce clear, well-reasoned ecological reports suitable for planning.
- Manage your own projects, including survey planning, delivery and deadlines.
- Provide pragmatic ecological advice to clients and contribute to ongoing project work.
- Demonstrable experience delivering ecological consultancy projects independently.
- Proven competence in PEAs, PRAs and ecological reporting.
- Confidence in BNG assessments, including habitat and condition assessment.
- Strong written communication and report-writing skills.
- Full UK driving licence.
Highly Desirable
- Bat Level 1 survey licence (strongly preferred).
- Strong botanical skills.
- Experience analysing bat data and supporting protected species work.
- Project management experience within consultancy.
Important – Please Read
This role is not suitable for graduates or entry-level ecologists. Applicants must already be competent in core consultancy tasks such as survey delivery, reporting and baseline assessments. However, you will not be expected to operate in isolation — the role includes clear line management, regular support and mentoring, particularly on complex projects and professional development.
Location & Working Pattern
Some in-office working in Taunton and regular site work across Somerset and the wider South West. Flexible working hours within agreed boundaries.
What We Offer
- Salary of £26,000–£33,000 depending on experience.
- 35-hour working week.
- 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with an additional paid Christmas shutdown.
- Flexible working and clear boundaries around out-of-hours work.
- Autonomy and trust, balanced with strong line management and support.
- Opportunity to help shape a growing consultancy and influence how we work.
- Professional development and support for licence progression.
How to Apply
Please apply with your CV to office@bng-group.co.uk with a short covering note outlining your experience and suitability for the role.
Consultant Ecologist in Taunton employer: BNG Group Ltd.
BNG Group is an exceptional employer for those passionate about ecology, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment in the beautiful South West. With a focus on professional development, flexible working arrangements, and the opportunity to influence a growing consultancy, employees can thrive while making a meaningful impact on biodiversity. The company values autonomy and trust, ensuring that you have the resources and mentorship needed to excel in your role as a Consultant Ecologist.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Consultant Ecologist in Taunton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow ecologists and industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio of your previous ecological projects and reports. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, we recommend sharing specific examples of your work to demonstrate your expertise and confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Before any interviews, do some mock interviews with friends or colleagues. We suggest focusing on common questions related to ecological consultancy and your experience with PEAs, PRAs, and BNG assessments.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at BNG Group.
We think you need these skills to ace Consultant Ecologist in Taunton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Consultant Ecologist role. Highlight your experience with PEAs, PRAs, and ecological reporting to show us you’re the right fit!
Craft a Compelling Covering Note:In your covering note, be concise but impactful. Share your relevant experience and why you’re passionate about ecological consultancy. This is your chance to stand out, so make it count!
Showcase Your Project Management Skills:Since we value autonomy and responsibility, don’t forget to mention any project management experience you have. Let us know how you’ve successfully managed projects in the past!
Apply Through Our Website:While you can send your application via email, we encourage you to check out our website for more details. It’s a great way to get a feel for our values and what we’re all about!
How to prepare for a job interview at BNG Group Ltd.
✨Know Your Ecological Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of PEAs, PRAs, and BNG assessments. Be ready to discuss your past experiences with these tasks and how you've successfully managed projects. This will show that you're not just familiar with the terms but can apply them in real-world scenarios.
✨Showcase Your Report-Writing Skills
Since strong written communication is key for this role, prepare a couple of examples of your ecological reports. Be ready to explain your thought process behind them and how they contributed to project success. This will demonstrate your ability to produce clear and well-reasoned documentation.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions related to bat surveys and data analysis. Brush up on your knowledge of protected species and be prepared to discuss any relevant experience you have. This will help you stand out as a competent candidate who can handle the responsibilities of the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Since the role involves working within a small, collaborative team, be prepared to talk about your teamwork experiences. Share examples of how you've supported colleagues or contributed to group projects. This will highlight your ability to work well with others while managing your own responsibilities.
