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- Tasks: Lead ecological management strategies and mentor colleagues in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join COOMBES, a leading Arboricultural and Forestry Contractor with over 20 years of expertise.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, company vehicle, annual bonus, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on ecological projects while supporting a diverse and inclusive workplace.
- Qualifications: CIEEM membership and experience managing ecological projects are preferred.
- Other info: Flexible hybrid working and regular social events to foster team spirit.
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
- Mentoring/supporting the professional development of other members of the team
To be successful as our Principal Ecologist, we would ideally like you to have the following skills/experience:
- CIEEM membership (Associate Level or above)
- 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)
- Proficiency preparing EPSL & GIS documents, BNG assessments & EcIAs
- Ideally hold at least 2 protected species licenses (Dormouse preferred)
- Detailed, working knowledge of UK legislation and policy
- Experience working on the railway network with PTS
- 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.
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.
Location: Petersfield, GU32 3QJ, Hybrid Working
Job Type: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday - need someone within commuting distance of the office 2-3 days per week, please.
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £45,000 - £55,000 per year company vehicle
Principal Ecologist in Petersfield employer: Coombes UK
Contact Detail:
Coombes UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Ecologist in Petersfield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the ecology field. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience with ecological projects and any specific skills that match the job description. Tailor your conversation to showcase how you can lead and mentor others in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere—apply through our website! We love seeing applications directly from candidates who are genuinely interested in joining COOMBES. Plus, it gives you a better chance of standing out in the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on UK legislation and ecological management strategies. Be ready to discuss your past projects and how you’ve navigated challenges. Confidence is key, so practice makes perfect!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Ecologist in Petersfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Ecologist role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in managing ecological projects and any specific skills like habitat identification or protected species licenses.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your passion for ecology and how your background aligns with our values and the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to mention your technical skills! Whether it’s preparing EPSL documents or conducting ecological surveys, make sure we see your proficiency in these areas clearly.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Coombes UK
✨Know Your Ecology Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your ecological knowledge, especially regarding UK legislation and habitat identification methods. Be prepared to discuss your experience with protected species licenses and how you've applied your skills in previous projects.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Since the role involves managing ecological projects from start to finish, be ready to share specific examples of past projects you've led. Highlight your ability to coordinate teams, manage budgets, and deliver technical reports on time.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that test your understanding of ecological assessments like PEAs, ECiAs, and HRAs. Brush up on your knowledge of GIS documents and BNG assessments, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Mentoring Ability
As a Principal Ecologist, you'll be expected to coach and mentor colleagues. Think of examples where you've successfully supported others' professional development and be ready to discuss your approach to providing constructive feedback.
