At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead ecological surveys and assessments to support planning applications.
- Company: Leading environmental consultancy focused on ecology and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, 25 days leave, and professional development.
- Other info: Supportive team environment with clear career progression and regular social events.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity and work on high-profile projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in ecology, strong knowledge of UK legislation, and relevant degree.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 55000 £ per year.
Your new company is a leading environmental consultancy specialising in ecology, arboriculture, and landscape architecture, operating primarily across the South East, London, and East Anglia. They deliver high-quality, evidence-based advice on a wide range of prestigious projects and take a multidisciplinary approach to their work. They are forward-thinking and committed to innovation, offering a collaborative and supportive environment where employees are encouraged to develop their skills and progress. With a strong focus on teamwork and professional growth, they provide an enjoyable and rewarding place to build your career.
Your new role involves seeking a proactive and experienced Senior or Principal Ecologist to join their team. This role focuses on ecology within the planning and development sector, leading surveys, assessments, and reporting to support planning applications.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading ecological surveys, including Phase 1 Habitat Surveys and protected species surveys
- Preparing Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs), Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) reports, and mitigation strategies
- Providing expert advice on biodiversity, habitat management, and environmental legislation
- Liaising with clients, local authorities, and statutory consultees
- Mentoring and supporting junior ecologists
- Attending site visits and stakeholder meetings and staying up to date with best practice and legislation
What you'll need to succeed:
- Proven experience in a Consultant or Senior Ecologist position
- Strong knowledge of UK ecology, habitat types, protected species, and relevant legislation (e.g. Wildlife & Countryside Act, Habitats Regulations)
- Experience producing ecological reports independently
- Relevant degree (BSc/MSc in Ecology or related discipline)
- Membership of a professional body such as CIEEM (preferred)
- Full UK driving licence
- Strong project management, communication, and report-writing skills
What you'll get in return:
- Competitive salary of £36,000 - £55,000
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays and Christmas closure
- Holiday sell-back scheme
- Access to Perkbox for wellbeing and discounts
- Confidential 24/7 helpline
- Weekly Pilates sessions and access to an onsite tennis court
- Funding for one professional membership
- Employee bonus scheme
- Regular social events, including a Christmas party and AGM
- Ongoing professional development, training, and CPD support
- Exposure to high-profile projects
- A supportive, collaborative team environment with clear career progression opportunities
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.
Senior/Principal Ecologist in Hertford employer: Hays
Join a leading environmental consultancy that prioritises innovation and collaboration, offering a supportive environment for Senior and Principal Ecologists. With a strong focus on professional growth, flexible working arrangements, and exposure to prestigious projects across the South East, London, and East Anglia, this company is dedicated to fostering a rewarding career path while promoting employee wellbeing through various benefits and social events.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior/Principal Ecologist in Hertford
✨Get Involved in Local Environmental Initiatives
Dive into your local environmental scenes, like community clean-up projects or eco-focused events. Not only will you meet like-minded people, but it's a surefire way to showcase your passion and skills in environmental engineering tech.
✨Join Industry-Specific Organisations
Check out organisations like the Institution of Environmental Engineers for networking opportunities and resources. They often host events and seminars that can help us connect with key players in the industry, including potential employers like Hays.
✨Show Off Your Projects and Passion
Create a portfolio that highlights any relevant projects, whether it's coursework, internships, or personal initiatives. Share this online, perhaps even on platforms like GitHub or your own website, to grab the attention of hiring managers looking for talent like us.
✨Utilise Environmental Job Boards
Take advantage of niche job boards dedicated to environmental careers. Sites like Green Jobs, Environmental Career and EcoJobs often feature openings from companies like Hays and can help us land that full-time gig.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior/Principal Ecologist in Hertford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for a role in environmental engineering tech, make sure to highlight your technical skills like CAD software proficiency, data analysis, or modelling techniques. These are essential for the job and should stand out in your CV and cover letter, showing how you can contribute to projects at Hays.
Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability:In this field, showcasing your passion for sustainability and environmental protection can set you apart. Include any relevant projects, volunteer experience, or courses that underline your commitment to these causes. Hays will appreciate candidates who genuinely care about making a difference.
Tailor Your Application to the Role:Don't just send a generic CV and cover letter. Make sure to tailor your application to the specific role of Senior/Principal Ecologist at Hays. Highlight experiences that align directly with the job description and give concrete examples of your work to demonstrate that you’re the right fit for a full-time position.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have certifications related to environmental engineering or technology, like LEED Accreditation or any relevant software certifications, make sure to mention them. These qualifications can boost your application and show that you’re serious about your professional development in this competitive field.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨Brush Up on Environmental Regulations
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest environmental regulations and standards. In an environmental engineering tech role at Hays, you might be asked specific questions about compliance measures, so understanding these will definitely give you an edge.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your proficiency with relevant tools and software, such as AutoCAD or GIS. You might be given a practical problem to solve during the interview, so it’s a great idea to brush up on these skills and perhaps even bring a portfolio of your projects to showcase your technical prowess.
✨Highlight Your Passion for Sustainability
In a full-time role, employers are looking for commitment and enthusiasm. Share your experiences, studies, or projects that reflect your passion for environmental sustainability. This will show Hays that you're not just qualified but genuinely invested in the field.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Be ready for behavioural questions that assess how you handle teamwork, conflict, and project management. Think of examples from your studies or practical experiences where you tackled challenges effectively, showcasing both your technical and interpersonal skills.
