Assistant Ecologist in Sheffield

We strongly encourage candidates to contact FPCR directly via the link(s) below rather than apply via third parties.

FPCR are hiring Seasonal Assistant Ecologists to help with the upcoming survey season. We would welcome applicants willing and able to travel to our office within Sheffield. We will be offering both zero hours and fixed time contracts for those looking to get stuck into a rewarding new career. We may also be offering limited opportunities to join permanently at the end of the season. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals to develop practical survey and mitigation skills for different species and habitats. Additionally, our friendly and busy office provides experience in technical report writing and data presentation.

While we offer a mix of office-based and remote work, new assistants will initially be required to attend the office full-time to receive proper training and guidance from colleagues. The Assistant Ecologist role will comprise a combination of field work and office based consultancy support, but we aim to offer a diverse range of opportunities, such as project management, report preparation, and data processing in addition.

You will be often out in the field, undertaking protected species surveys and habitat creation works. Full, on the job training will be provided, and training towards protected species licences can also be provided. As well as field work, there will be opportunities to gain valuable office experience, including planning surveys and QGIS work. Please note that the nature of our work will require you to work outside of normal office hours. This includes field surveys for species groups such as bats during evenings or birds in the early morning. You will also be required to travel throughout South Yorkshire, East Midlands and occasionally further afield with occasional overnight stays.

What do we need from you?

• Candidates must be well organised, with an enthusiastic and motivated attitude.
• A keen interest in ecology and conservation.
• The ability to record field data reliably and accurately to a consistent and to a high standard.
• The ability to communicate well and work effectively as part of a team.
• Familiarity with wildlife legislation within the UK and ideally a basic understanding of the planning system and planning policy guidance.
• A full driving licence and access to a vehicle is necessary and you must have, or be prepared to add, Business Use to your car insurance policy.
• Have, or be working towards, a qualification in an environmental subject.
• Proficiency with software such as QGIS is desirable.
• Experience of undertaking UK habitat and/or protected species survey is advantageous.
• A good understanding of British native species, wildlife legislation and planning policy relating to ecology.

Why FPCR?

FPCR Environment and Design Ltd is one of the UK’s leading integrated design practices working extensively throughout the UK. Over the last 60 years the practice has developed a valuable mix of multi-disciplinary expertise in masterplanning, environmental assessment, urban design, landscape, ecology, architecture, arboriculture and green infrastructure. Working together, we have implemented many award-winning schemes in environmentally sensitive locations. At the start of 2021 FPCR became an Employee-Owned business. Our people and culture are vital to the service we provide, and we feel this is the best way forward for the future of the practice. Employee Ownership will enable the whole team to share in the future growth and success of the business, whilst the practice can remain responsive, independent, and adaptable. Our ecology team is led by four directors who each joined the company in junior positions and are committed to providing the same supportive and fostering environment that is at the heart of our practice. Our team of over 120 ecologists work out of six offices across the UK.

What you can expect in return:

We are offering a competitive salary with the opportunity for annual bonuses, enrolment on our pension scheme and 25 days holiday, compressed working week and a holiday purchase system. Everyone is enrolled in a BUPA health and wellbeing cashback scheme. Staff well-being is very important to us, and the teams frequently have a range of volunteering and social activities going on.

FPCR is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion within the workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their race or gender. If you feel you are the right candidate, or feel you can offer FPCR’s ecology team other relevant experience and skills, please submit your CV along with a covering letter, together with any supporting documentation that you feel may be of interest. Candidates must have the right to work in the UK.