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- Tasks: Lead ecological management strategies and mentor junior team members.
- Company: Join COOMBES UK, a top Arboricultural and Forestry Contractor with 20+ years of experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, annual bonuses, training opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in ecology while working on exciting projects across the UK.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing ecological projects and knowledge of UK legislation is preferred.
- Other info: Participate in community volunteering and enjoy regular social events.
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 Ecologists
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the ecology field, especially those who have experience with COOMBES or similar companies. Attend industry events, webinars, and workshops to meet potential colleagues and learn more about the company culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest UK environmental legislation and policies. Being well-versed in current regulations will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific ecological projects you've managed, particularly those involving Phase 2 surveys. Highlight your leadership skills and how you've successfully guided teams through complex ecological assessments.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your mentoring experience by preparing examples of how you've supported junior team members in their professional development. This will align with COOMBES' focus on team growth and collaboration.
We think you need these skills to ace Ecologists
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Principal Ecologist position. Familiarise yourself with COOMBES' ecological management strategies and their approach to environmental legislation.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your relevant experience in managing ecological projects, particularly any Phase 2 surveys you've conducted. Make sure to include your knowledge of UK legislation and any specific licences you hold, such as PTS Class 2 Survey licences for protected species.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for ecology and how your skills align with COOMBES' mission. Mention your experience in mentoring junior team members and your ability to lead ecological surveying and logistics planning.
Showcase Your Professional Development: Mention any training or professional development opportunities you've pursued that relate to the role. This could include courses on ecological data analysis, environmental management systems, or any relevant certifications.
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 projects you've led, highlighting your role in planning, execution, and outcomes. Use examples that demonstrate your ability to handle challenges and deliver results.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of UK Legislation
A detailed understanding of UK environmental legislation is crucial for this role. Brush up on relevant laws and policies before the interview, and be ready to discuss how you've applied this knowledge in past roles. This will show your potential employer that you are well-versed in the legal framework governing ecology.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to ecological surveying and protected species. Review your knowledge on Phase 2 surveys and be ready to explain methodologies you've used. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and confidence in the field.
✨Highlight Mentoring Experience
Since mentoring junior team members is part of the job, think of examples where you've supported others in their professional development. Discuss how you've provided training or guidance, and the positive impact it had on your team. This will showcase your leadership skills and commitment to team growth.
