At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead ecological surveys and manage diverse conservation projects across Essex.
- Company: Join Essex Wildlife Trust, the leading conservation charity in the county.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26-29 days annual leave, flexible hours, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diversity and supporting the Armed Forces community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on wildlife conservation while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in Ecology or related field with consultancy experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 35000 € 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 skills
- Membership 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 Essex employer: Essex Wildlife Trust Ltd
Essex Wildlife Trust is an exceptional employer for those passionate about conservation and ecology, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With flexible working hours, generous annual leave, and a commitment to diversity, we empower our team to make a meaningful impact on wildlife and inspire the community. Join us in our mission to protect and connect nature across Essex while enjoying unique benefits such as staff social days and discounts at our Nature Discovery Centres.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Ecologist (Consultancy) in Essex
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with fellow ecologists and conservationists! Attend local events, workshops, or even online webinars. Building relationships can lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to meet potential employers, don’t hold back! Share your experiences with ecological surveys and project management. Let them know how you can contribute to their mission of protecting wildlife.
✨Tailor Your Approach
Before any interview, research the company’s projects and values. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their work and how you can help achieve their goals for biodiversity and conservation.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Essex Wildlife Trust.
We think you need these skills to ace Ecologist (Consultancy) in Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Ecologist role. Highlight your consultancy experience, project management skills, and any relevant ecological surveys you've led. We want to see how you fit into our mission!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for wildlife conservation and how your background aligns with our goals at Essex Wildlife Trust. Let us know why you’re excited about this opportunity and how you can contribute to our team.
Showcase Your Report Writing Skills:Since excellent report writing is key for this role, consider including examples of reports or assessments you've prepared in the past. This will give us a taste of your writing style and attention to detail, which are crucial for the position.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our organisation there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex Wildlife Trust Ltd
✨Know Your Ecology Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK and EU wildlife legislation and planning policy. Be ready to discuss specific ecological surveys you've led, like Phase 1 or protected species assessments, and how they relate to the role.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples of projects you've managed from start to finish. Highlight your ability to ensure quality and compliance, and be ready to discuss how you handle challenges during project delivery.
✨Demonstrate Mentorship Experience
Since mentoring junior staff is a key part of the role, think of instances where you've supported others in their professional development. Share how you approach mentoring and the impact it had on your team.
✨Be Ready for Client Conversations
As you'll be providing expert advice to clients, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare to discuss how you would approach client consultations and what strategies you use to communicate complex ecological concepts effectively.
