At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team delivering innovative infrastructure projects and conduct ecological assessments.
- Company: Jacobs, a forward-thinking company tackling critical global challenges.
- Benefits: Pension contributions, professional development support, and wellbeing resources.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for travel and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the environment while advancing your career in ecology.
- Qualifications: Experience in terrestrial ecology and strong report writing skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
About the role
At Jacobs, we are challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world’s most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission‑critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting‑edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.
Your impact
We have opportunities available for Ecologists to join our Reading office to be part of our National specialist Ecologist cohort. The successful individuals will join a respected and ambitious company with excellent career prospects both locally and internationally. We actively support the professional development of staff, through our Global Career Framework, Chartership Academy Programme, Employee Networks and our Community of Practice networks, which connect us to over 200 Jacobs ecologists in the UK and Ireland, and over 600 globally.
Responsibilities
- Delivering some of the most challenging, diverse and innovative infrastructure projects.
- Engaged on a variety of large projects including water infrastructure, highway and rail schemes, energy infrastructure for clients such as Anglian Water, National Highways, National Grid, Network Rail, Thames Water, The Environment Agency, Transport Scotland and a number of local authorities.
- A combination of desk and site‑based tasks – there will be a requirement to work across the UK and at times, stay away from home during the working week.
- Using your experience in protected species survey, Ecological Clerk of Works, Environmental Impact Assessment, Habitats Regulations Assessment and Biodiversity Net Gain.
- Working in multidisciplinary teams – quickly building rapport and trust to ensure that terrestrial ecology requirements are recognised, acknowledged and constraints acted upon.
- Engagement with both internal and external clients, customers and environmental regulators.
Required qualifications
- A background in terrestrial ecology with relevant industry experience including technical reporting and impact assessment in cognisance of national legislation and guidance.
- Associate membership of Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (or similar / or experience to obtain membership).
- An experienced ecology surveyor and a good field scientist.
- Ability to write clear and concise reports.
- Inquisitiveness and willingness to learn.
- The ability to work well as part of a team.
- A ‘hands on’ work ethic and good self‑awareness.
Desired skills
- Current and full driving licence.
- A technical specialism in the field of terrestrial ecology.
- Particularly keen to build upon our expertise in habitats, bats and ecological clerk of works.
- If you have broad experience and ability to pick up other ecological interests quickly, we’d love to hear from you too!
Benefits
- Up to 10% company contribution into their pension.
- Reimbursement towards relevant professional development and memberships.
- Support to local communities through our Collectively program which incorporates matched‑funding, paid volunteering time and charitable donations.
- Opportunity to buy/sell annual leave.
- Wellbeing support and resources.
Wellbeing benefits
- Free employee medical cover and digital GP service, including support for obtaining formal diagnosis for ASD, ADHD and Tourette syndrome under Private Medical Insurance.
- A mindfulness platform.
- Dedicated Workplace Support 11 Counselling Consultations.
Ecologist (Reading) employer: Jacobs
At Jacobs, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters professional growth and collaboration among our ecologists in Reading. With a strong commitment to employee development through our Global Career Framework and various support programmes, we empower our team to tackle innovative projects while enjoying comprehensive benefits, including generous pension contributions and wellbeing resources. Join us to make a meaningful impact on the environment and your career in a supportive and ambitious setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Ecologist (Reading)
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with fellow ecologists and industry professionals. Attend local events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn to make those valuable connections. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you land that interview, be ready to showcase your experience in protected species surveys and environmental assessments. Bring examples of your work and be prepared to discuss how you've tackled challenges in past projects. We want to see your passion for ecology shine through!
✨Tailor Your Approach
Before applying, do your homework on Jacobs and their projects. Tailor your conversation to highlight how your skills align with their needs, especially in areas like biodiversity net gain and ecological clerk of works. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and serious about joining our team of talented ecologists.
We think you need these skills to ace Ecologist (Reading)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Ecologist role. Highlight your background in terrestrial ecology and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how you can contribute to our ambitious goals!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about ecology and how your experience aligns with our mission at Jacobs. Keep it concise but engaging – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Team Spirit:Since working in multidisciplinary teams is key for us, make sure to mention any collaborative projects you've been part of. We’re looking for team players who can build rapport and trust with colleagues and clients alike.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget 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 shows you’re keen to join our community of ecologists!
How to prepare for a job interview at Jacobs
✨Know Your Ecology Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of terrestrial ecology, especially around protected species surveys and Environmental Impact Assessments. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on and how your experience aligns with the role at Jacobs.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working in multidisciplinary teams, highlight your ability to build rapport and trust with colleagues. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated on past projects, as teamwork is key in this position.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions related to ecological assessments and legislation. Familiarise yourself with current national guidelines and be prepared to explain how you would approach various ecological challenges that may arise in the role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions about Jacobs' projects or their approach to biodiversity net gain. This shows your genuine interest in the company and the role, plus it gives you a chance to assess if it's the right fit for you.