Assistant/Consultant Ecologist in Canterbury, Kent

Your new company

My client is a growing, well-established ecological consultancy based in Kent, working primarily across the South East and East Anglia, with the ability to support projects further afield where required. Their core workload focuses on planning-led ecological projects, including residential developments, education schemes and a range of specialist commissions. They have also supported a DCO project, providing exposure to larger-scale infrastructure and consenting work. The business has developed a strong reputation for delivering high-quality ecological advice while maintaining an excellent work-life balance. Their collaborative team culture, sensible approach to fieldwork and commitment to professional development make them an attractive employer for ecologists seeking long-term career progression.

Your new role

You will join a close-knit ecology team and support the delivery of a wide variety of ecological projects across the South East. Working alongside Senior Ecologists and the Head of Ecology, you will undertake ecological surveys, assist with impact assessments and contribute to the production of high-quality technical reports. The role will provide exposure to the full project lifecycle, enabling you to build both technical and client-facing skills.

Responsibilities will include:

• Undertaking a range of protected species and habitat surveys.
• Assisting with Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs) and Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRAs).
• Supporting the delivery of ornithological surveys and ecological fieldwork programmes.
• Analysing survey data and contributing to report writing.
• Liaising with colleagues, clients and external stakeholders.
• Assisting with project management and meeting programme deadlines.
• Working closely with senior team members to develop your technical and professional skills.

What you'll need to succeed

• A degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Conservation Biology or a related discipline.
• Experience with ecological surveying in the UK in a similar seasonal or permanent consultancy role.
• Knowledge of UK habitats, protected species and wildlife legislation.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• A willingness to work both independently and collaboratively within a consultancy environment.
• Full UK driving licence, vehicle and willingness to travel for site work.

The following would be advantageous:

• Protected species survey licences and/or FISC certification.
• Experience preparing technical reports.
• Experience of ornithological surveys.
• Membership with CIEEM.
• Experience contributing to EcIAs, HRAs or Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments.

What you'll get in return

• Competitive salary dependent on experience: £28,000 - £35,000.
• Work/life balance taken seriously, hybrid and flexible working arrangements.
• Time and a quarter TOIL policy & monthly survey breaks to avoid burn-out.
• Annual leave entitlement that grows with tenure.
• Pension plan.
• Vitality health insurance.
• Paid professional memberships.
• Ongoing mentoring and structured career development.
• Opportunity to gain protected species licences and expand technical competencies.
• Exposure to a diverse portfolio of projects.

What you need to do now

If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or contact us for a confidential discussion about your career. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you're looking for a new position within ecology, environmental consultancy or environmental management, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career options.