At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead ecological surveys and mentor junior staff while providing expert advice to clients.
- Company: Join Essex Wildlife Trust, the leading conservation charity in Essex.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days annual leave, sick pay, and a pension scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to a wilder Essex.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity and inspire love for nature.
- Qualifications: Experience in ecology and strong client management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 29000 € per year.
Essex Wildlife Trust are the county’s leading conservation charity, committed to protecting wildlife and inspiring a lifelong love of nature; and we would love you to join our committed and enthusiastic team. By 2030 we aim to protect and connect 30% of land and sea and inspire 1 in 4 people in Essex to take action for wildlife.
We are the Essex Wildlife Trust’s ecological consultancy delivering sustainable solutions for biodiversity, development, and conservation across Essex and the south east. Our dedicated ecology team works on diverse projects ranging from infrastructure, species surveys, to habitat restoration and nature recovery.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced Ecologist to join our growing ecology team. You will play a key role in managing ecological surveys, leading projects, mentoring junior staff, and providing expert advice to clients. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to progress their career within a supportive and forward-thinking consultancy.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead on ecological surveys (e.g. Phase 1/UKHab, protected species, habitat assessments)
- Manage projects from inception to delivery, ensuring quality and compliance
- Prepare and review ecological reports, including impact assessments and mitigation strategies
- Provide ecological advice to clients, consultants and planning authorities
- Mentor and support junior ecologists in both technical and professional development
- Contribute to business development, including preparing proposals and tenders
About You
- Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related discipline
- Proven experience in consultancy or applied ecology (minimum 7 years preferred)
- Strong knowledge of UK and EU wildlife legislation and planning policy
- Demonstrable experience with protected species surveys (holding licences desirable)
- Excellent report writing and project management skillsMembership of CIEEM (Associate or Full) or working towards chartership
- Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel for fieldwork
This role is a permanent position working 37.5 hours per week (these hours can be delivered flexibly). The salary is £30,000 to £35,000 per annum. Benefits include free life assurance, logo clothing and parking, and company sick pay provisions.
Annual leave entitlement starts at 26 days per annum increasing annually to 29 days plus Bank Holidays. We provide company sick pay increasing with length of service, an employee assistance programme, a combined 8% contribution pension scheme, staff social days, colleague nomination scheme and discounts in our Nature Discovery Centres.
Essex Wildlife Trust is committed to an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone is welcome. As a conservation charity, we know how important diversity is, both in our natural world and amongst the people we employ. We want everyone to feel valued and empowered to contribute to our vision of 'A county rich in wildlife with people connected to nature'.
As a Disability Confident employer, please make us aware you have a disability as we are committed to offering an interview that meets the minimum criteria for the post. If you require any adjustments to make our recruitment process more accessible, please make us aware.
We are proud to be an employer that supports the Armed Forces Covenant and are committed to supporting those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families. As part of this commitment, Armed Forces veterans who meet the minimum criteria for an advertised role will be guaranteed an interview.
Ecologist (Consultancy) in Colchester employer: Essex Wildlife Trust Ltd
Essex Wildlife Trust is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment where employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact on wildlife conservation. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we offer generous annual leave, a supportive pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development within our expanding ecology consultancy based in the picturesque Abbotts Hall, Great Wigborough. Join us in our mission to inspire a love of nature while enjoying a fulfilling career that values diversity and promotes well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Ecologist (Consultancy) in Colchester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Essex Wildlife Trust and their mission. Familiarise yourself with their projects and values, so you can show genuine enthusiasm during your interview. We want to see that you're not just looking for any job, but that you're passionate about making a difference in wildlife conservation.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn to get insider info about the company culture and what they look for in candidates. This could give you an edge in your application and help you tailor your approach.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for your interview by practising common questions related to ecology and consultancy. Think about how your past experiences align with the role's responsibilities. We want to see how you can contribute to our growing team and support biodiversity efforts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us that you're serious about joining our team. Remember, early applications are encouraged, so don’t wait until the last minute!
We think you need these skills to ace Ecologist (Consultancy) in Colchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Nature:When writing your application, let your love for wildlife and conservation shine through. We want to see how your values align with our mission to protect and inspire a love of nature in Essex.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in ecological surveys and project management. We’re looking for someone who can lead and mentor, so don’t hold back on showcasing your skills in these areas!
Be Clear and Concise:In your written application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts well. This will help us see your ability to deliver high-quality reports and manage client relationships effectively.
Apply Early!:We anticipate a high volume of applications, so don’t wait until the last minute. Get your application in through our website as soon as you can to ensure you don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex Wildlife Trust Ltd
✨Know Your Ecology
Brush up on your ecological knowledge and be ready to discuss recent trends in biodiversity and conservation. Familiarise yourself with Essex Wildlife Trust's projects and how they align with your expertise.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your skills in managing ecological surveys and mentoring junior staff. Highlight any successful projects you've led and the impact they had on biodiversity.
✨Client Relationship Management
Be ready to discuss how you manage client relationships effectively. Think of examples where you've successfully navigated challenges or provided expert advice that led to positive outcomes.
✨Embrace Their Values
Familiarise yourself with the Trust's values: Impactful, Collaborative, United, and Proactive. Prepare to explain how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their mission for a wilder Essex.