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- Tasks: Lead ecological management strategies and mentor colleagues in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join COOMBES, a top Arboricultural and Forestry Contractor with over 20 years of expertise.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, company vehicle, annual bonuses, and training opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of exciting projects in woodland management and make a real impact in the Rail industry.
- Qualifications: CIEEM membership or willingness to obtain, plus experience in ecological project management.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage all backgrounds to apply, even if you don't meet every qualification.
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
- Producing technical reports in a timely manner and to requirement
- Coaching, mentoring and developing colleagues in this area, providing feedback and support
- Leading on/undertaking ecological surveying and logistics planning across our sites
- Undertaking, supervising and training colleagues with PEAs, ECiAs and HRAs
- 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:
- CIEEM membership (or working toward/willingness to obtain)
- Experience managing ecological projects from conception to completion, including Phase 2 surveys
- Understanding/application of habitat identification using UKHab methods and botanical species identification (FISC Level 4 minimum)
- 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.
What can you expect from us?
- 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
- 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. We have forged a strong industry reputation, and we believe we have an unrivalled skill set and peerless knowledge of Forestry work at all levels.
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. We have a strong record of achievement and are committed to meeting the growing demands for safe and efficient delivery.
A family-run SME, we believe in working collaboratively and operating as one team. Our success is only achieved through the hard work, dedication and skill of our people. Operating with transparency and integrity in all that we do, we take responsibility for our actions, empowering and supporting each other to be the best, most authentic version of ourselves consistently.
Our commitment to diversity and inclusion: We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds and provide equal opportunities, whilst ensuring that all employees and applicants are treated fairly and with respect. Even if you don’t meet all the qualifications or have all the experience listed, we still encourage you to apply. You may just be the ideal candidate for this role, or suitable for future vacancies. We are always keen to speak with talented individuals with an interest in joining us here at COOMBES and look forward to hearing from you soon.
Agency Notice: We do not accept unsolicited CVs and will not be responsible for any fees relating to this. Please contact the Recruitment Team for further information.
Principal Ecologist (Petersfield) employer: Coombes Group
Contact Detail:
Coombes Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Ecologist (Petersfield)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the ecology field, especially those who have experience with COOMBES or similar companies. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn more about the company culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest UK environmental legislation and policies relevant to the role. Being well-versed in these areas will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience managing ecological projects in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led projects from conception to completion, highlighting any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your mentoring and coaching skills during discussions. COOMBES values professional development, so be prepared to talk about how you've supported junior colleagues in their growth and how you plan to do the same in this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Ecologist (Petersfield)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in ecological management and project leadership. Emphasise any specific projects you've managed, particularly those involving ecological surveys or environmental legislation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for ecology and how your skills align with the responsibilities of the Principal Ecologist role. Mention your CIEEM membership status and any relevant qualifications that demonstrate your expertise.
Showcase Technical Skills: Detail your experience with habitat identification and ecological surveying techniques. Include examples of reports you've produced and any training you've provided to colleagues, as this aligns with the mentoring aspect of the role.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have experience working on rail or infrastructure projects, make sure to include this in your application. Even if it's not essential, it can set you apart from other candidates and show your versatility.
How to prepare for a job interview at Coombes Group
✨Know Your Ecology Legislation
Familiarise yourself with the latest UK environmental legislation and policies. Be prepared to discuss how these regulations impact ecological management strategies, as this will demonstrate your expertise and awareness of the field.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples of ecological projects you've managed from start to finish. Highlight your role in planning, executing, and delivering these projects, as well as any challenges you overcame along the way.
✨Demonstrate Your Mentoring Experience
Since mentoring junior colleagues is a key part of the role, be ready to share specific instances where you've coached or supported others in their professional development. This will show your leadership capabilities.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to answer technical questions related to ecological surveying, habitat identification, and protected species. Brush up on your knowledge of UKHab methods and be ready to discuss your experience with PEAs, ECiAs, and HRAs.
