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- Tasks: Lead ecological surveys and contribute to impact assessments for diverse UK projects.
- Company: Join a top consultancy known for delivering large-scale environmental projects across various sectors.
- Benefits: Enjoy remote work flexibility with competitive pay and potential for contract extension.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity while working in a dynamic, solution-driven environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Ecology or related field; experience in surveys and knowledge of UK wildlife legislation required.
- Other info: Occasional site visits and collaboration with clients and stakeholders are part of the role.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 48000 £ per year.
Contract Duration: 3-6 months, with potential for extension
Location: UK-based, remote working with occasional site visits
Rate: ~ £400 per day (dependent on experience), Outside IR35
Are you a Biodiversity or Ecology specialist with experience delivering fieldwork, impact assessments, and project advice across infrastructure or industrial sectors? We're currently supporting a leading consultancy in their search for a Freelance Ecologist to help deliver upcoming survey and advisory work during a peak period. The organisation works across a broad client base within infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing, with a strong reputation for delivering complex, large-scale environmental projects. This is primarily a remote role with occasional travel for site surveys and meetings.
Key Responsibilities will include:
- Leading and supporting ecological surveys (e.g. Phase 1, protected species, habitat assessments) and associated reporting
- Contributing to Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA) and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) strategies for a variety of UK projects
- Working with clients and project teams to integrate ecological considerations into planning and construction processes
- Liaising with stakeholders, local authorities, and regulators on project impacts and mitigation
- Using GIS tools and survey data to produce accurate ecological maps and records
The successful candidate will have:
- A degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Conservation Biology, or a related field
- Demonstrable experience working on ecological surveys, impact assessments, or BNG planning
- Familiarity with UK wildlife legislation and ecological best practice guidance
- A pragmatic, solution-driven approach to balancing conservation and development
- Ideally, a relevant qualification such as CIEEM membership or protected species licences
For more information on this opportunity or to discuss your next contract, contact Tom Hewat.
Freelance Ecologist employer: Irwin & Colton
Contact Detail:
Irwin & Colton Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Freelance Ecologist
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the ecology and environmental sectors. Attend relevant webinars, workshops, or local meetups to connect with others who may have insights into upcoming opportunities or can refer you directly to hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest UK wildlife legislation and ecological best practices. This knowledge will not only enhance your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in the field during interviews or discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific projects you've worked on that relate to ecological surveys and impact assessments. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully integrated ecological considerations into planning processes.
✨Tip Number 4
Utilise GIS tools effectively and be prepared to showcase your skills in producing ecological maps and records. Having a portfolio of your work can set you apart and provide tangible evidence of your capabilities.
We think you need these skills to ace Freelance Ecologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in ecology, biodiversity, and impact assessments. Use specific examples from previous roles that demonstrate your ability to lead ecological surveys and contribute to Ecological Impact Assessments.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that addresses the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description. Explain how your background aligns with the needs of the consultancy and express your enthusiasm for the role and the opportunity to work on large-scale environmental projects.
Showcase Relevant Qualifications: If you have qualifications such as CIEEM membership or protected species licences, make sure to mention these prominently in your application. This will help demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field.
Highlight Your Communication Skills: Since the role involves liaising with stakeholders and local authorities, emphasise your communication skills in both your CV and cover letter. Provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with various parties in past projects.
How to prepare for a job interview at Irwin & Colton
✨Showcase Your Fieldwork Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous fieldwork experiences in detail. Highlight specific projects where you led ecological surveys or contributed to impact assessments, as this will demonstrate your hands-on expertise and understanding of the role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with UK Legislation
Make sure you brush up on UK wildlife legislation and ecological best practices. Being able to reference relevant laws and guidelines during the interview will show that you are knowledgeable and serious about compliance in your work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think of examples where you balanced conservation efforts with development needs, and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves liaising with stakeholders and local authorities, practice articulating your ideas clearly. Be ready to discuss how you would communicate complex ecological concepts to non-specialists, showcasing your ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences.
