At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead ecological surveys and manage exciting projects while mentoring junior ecologists.
- Company: Essex Wildlife Trust, a leading conservation charity dedicated to protecting wildlife.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, competitive salary, life assurance, and supportive work culture.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to conservation and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity and inspire others to love nature.
- Qualifications: Degree in Ecology or related field with 7+ years of consultancy experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 35000 £ per year.
Essex Wildlife Trust is the county’s leading conservation charity, committed to protecting wildlife and inspiring a lifelong love of nature. 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.
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 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 technical and professional development
- Contribute to business development, including preparing proposals and tenders
- Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a 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 is a permanent position working 37.5 hours per week (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.
Application ProcessPlease complete an application form via our website as soon as possible. We reserve the right to close this advert when a successful candidate has been appointed. If you would like an informal chat about the role, please feel free to contact jobs@essexwt.org.uk.
Equal OpportunitiesEssex Wildlife Trust is committed to an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone is welcome. We support the Armed Forces Covenant and provide guaranteed interviews to qualifying veterans. As a Disability Confident employer, we will make reasonable adjustments to our recruitment process to accommodate applicants with disabilities.
Location: Abbotts Hall, Maldon Road, Great Wigborough, Colchester, Essex CO5 7RZ, United Kingdom
Senior Ecologist: Lead Projects & Mentor (Flexible Hours) employer: Essex Wildlife Trust Ltd
Essex Wildlife Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With flexible working hours and a commitment to conservation, employees have the unique opportunity to lead impactful projects while mentoring the next generation of ecologists in a beautiful Essex setting. Join us in making a difference for wildlife and enjoy benefits such as life assurance and company sick pay provisions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Ecologist: Lead Projects & Mentor (Flexible Hours)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the ecology field, attend local conservation events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and recent ecological projects. We recommend practising common interview questions and even doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for conservation! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your experiences and what drives you in the field of ecology. We want to see that enthusiasm shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, if you have any questions, feel free to reach out for an informal chat – we’re here to help you land that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Ecologist: Lead Projects & Mentor (Flexible Hours)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Senior Ecologist. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Experience:Don’t just list your qualifications; tell us about your hands-on experience in ecological surveys and project management. We want to see how you've led projects and mentored others, so share specific examples!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured reports, so show us your report writing skills by being organised and concise in your application.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex Wildlife Trust Ltd
✨Know Your Ecology Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK and EU wildlife legislation and planning policy. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your understanding of ecological surveys and habitat assessments.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience managing projects from inception to delivery. Highlight any challenges you've faced and how you ensured quality and compliance throughout the process. This will show your potential employer that you can handle the responsibilities of the role.
✨Mentorship Matters
Since mentoring junior staff is a key part of the role, think about your past experiences in guiding others. Share specific instances where you supported a colleague's development or contributed to their success, as this will demonstrate your leadership abilities.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions related to ecological advice and impact assessments. Prepare by thinking through how you would approach various situations, ensuring you can articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.
