Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead ecological management strategies and provide expert support to the team.
- Company: Join COOMBES, a top Arboricultural and Forestry Contractor with 20+ years in the industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, bonuses, training opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental management while developing your skills in a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Experience in ecological project management and knowledge of UK legislation is preferred.
- Other info: Remote work flexibility and regular social events to foster team spirit.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
As our Principal Ecologist, you will lead on and provide expert support, training and guidance to develop COOMBES ecological management strategies, plans and budget costs alongside our Environmental Manager.
You will be responsible for:
- Establishing and managing Ecology resources within the company
- Advising on environmental legislation, keeping key stakeholders informed of any changes, updating company policies and procedures as required
- Leading on/undertaking ecological surveying and logistics planning across our sites
- Leading on/providing training and support for protected species surveys/reports, ecological data collation, analysis, monitoring and reporting
- Playing an active role in maintaining and developing the Environmental Management System to include internal updates and support with external audits
- Mentoring/supporting the professional development of junior members of the team
To be successful as our Principal Ecologist, we would ideally like you to have the following skills/experience:
- Experience managing ecological projects from conception to completion, including Phase 2 surveys
- Detailed, working knowledge of UK legislation and policy
- PTS Class 2 Survey licence(s) for protected species
- Experience of working within rail/on infrastructure projects would be advantageous but is not essential.
We offer a competitive basic salary (reviewed annually), company vehicle and fuel card, annual bonus (based on company performance), company pension scheme, training opportunities and support with personal/professional development, Employee Assistance Programme – to support mental/physical health and provide legal/financial advice if required, access to online GP service for you/your family 24/7, rewards & discounts for retail/leisure & more, regular social events like our Summer Family Day & The COOMBESmas (Christmas) party, length of service awards to celebrate significant milestones, and opportunities to support COOMBES Social Value objectives (community volunteering/fundraising, etc.).
COOMBES UK are a leading Arboricultural and Forestry Contractor, with over 20 years’ experience and expertise in the Forestry sector. COOMBES play a key role within the Rail industry, providing a whole manner of off-track solutions, and minor civils works, in partnership with Network Rail and other major contractors. Following recent, significant growth, we currently have some exciting projects underway in woodland management, timber harvesting, rail and civils works across the UK. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is paramount.
Contact Detail:
Coombes Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Ecologist | Home-based
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the ecology field, especially those who have experience with rail and infrastructure projects. Attend relevant conferences or workshops to meet potential colleagues and learn about industry trends.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest UK environmental legislation and policies. Being well-versed in these areas will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in your field.
✨Tip Number 3
Consider volunteering for ecological projects or initiatives that align with COOMBES' values. This hands-on experience can enhance your skills and show your dedication to ecological management and community involvement.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your previous project management experiences in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led ecological projects from start to finish, as this will be crucial in showcasing your suitability for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Ecologist | Home-based
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in ecological project management, particularly any Phase 2 surveys you've conducted. Emphasise your knowledge of UK legislation and any specific licences you hold, such as PTS Class 2 Survey licences.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for ecology and how your skills align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Mention your experience in mentoring junior team members and your ability to lead ecological surveys and logistics planning.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on projects that demonstrate your ability to manage ecological resources and advise on environmental legislation. If you have experience in rail or infrastructure projects, be sure to highlight this as it could set you apart from other candidates.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in the field of ecology.
How to prepare for a job interview at Coombes Group
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
As a Principal Ecologist, you'll be managing ecological projects from start to finish. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of projects you've led, highlighting your role in planning, execution, and outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of UK Legislation
Familiarise yourself with current UK environmental legislation and policies. During the interview, be ready to explain how you have applied this knowledge in previous roles and how it can benefit the company.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to ecological surveying and protected species. Brush up on your technical knowledge and be ready to discuss methodologies you've used in past surveys or reports.
✨Emphasise Mentoring Experience
Since mentoring junior team members is part of the role, think of examples where you've supported others in their professional development. Share how you approach training and guidance to foster a collaborative team environment.
