Ecologist and Land Manager - Langley Abbey Environment Project

Overview

Langley Abbey Environment Project is a developer-funded nature reserve spanning South Norfolk and The Broads. Habitats are being created and enhanced across the 600-acre Langley Abbey Estate in order to significantly increase biodiversity and species abundance, conserve peatland, sequester carbon and improve water quality in the Yare Valley. Biodiversity units are sold to developers wanting to achieve biodiversity net gain whilst making valuable contributions to local nature recovery.

Role Description

We are looking for somebody who is passionate, driven and highly competent to join as an In-house Ecologist and Land Manager. This is an opportunity to join an ambitious project at an early stage of the journey and become a vital component in a small but dynamic team. You will work closely with the Landowners, Project Lead and Estate Manager to deliver the outcomes and objectives of Langley Abbey Environment Project and will provide valuable input into strategy and decision-making.

The role will blend both ecology and land management, requiring a thorough understanding of botany along with the enthusiasm to implement effective management techniques. It is ideally suited for an ecology practitioner looking to apply their knowledge in the field and deliver nature recovery first-hand. This is principally a practical role that will require you to operate the tools and machinery required to manage the habitat in question. Appropriate training and supervision will be provided as required.

The right candidate will display initiative and a willingness to perform their role independently alongside an ability to cooperative effectively with colleagues and delivery partners. Due to the multi-faceted nature of the role, it is important that you are able to prioritise tasks and organise your workload effectively, whilst remaining adaptive and open-minded. High professional standards and a positive attitude are essential.

Responsibilities

• Undertaking habitat creation and management activities across a range of grassland, heathland, wetland and woodland habitats and watercourses in order to achieve specified outcomes;
• Conducting regular habitat inspections and condition assessments;
• Reporting to colleagues on outcomes of actions and providing input into strategy, adaptive management and decision-making;
• Preparing HMMPs and Monitoring Reports periodically;
• Conducting seasonal surveys including botanical, bird, bat, and invertebrate;
• Conducting periodic water quality testing of watercourses and freshwater habitats;
• Supporting external delivery partners; and
• Supporting the delivery of site visits and volunteer events.

Essential Experience

• Minimum BSc degree in Ecology, Biology, Environmental Science, Conservation, Zoology or another relevant field;
• +2 years PQE in ecology/conservation sector;
• Relevant qualifications to undertake river condition assessments (or a willingness to acquire such qualification)
• Preparing Habitat Management and Monitoring Plans (HMMPs) and Monitoring Reports; and
• UK driving licence.

Non-essential Experience (but highly desirable)

• Experience in land management, particularly species-rich grassland and woodlands;
• Agricultural and/or horticultural experience; and
• Strong understanding of Biodiversity Net Gain.

Benefits

• Professional memberships (e.g. CIEEM) expensed; and
• Professional development opportunities and external training encouraged and expensed

Salary – £30,000 to £45,000. Competitive based on qualifications and experience.

Full time, permanent

For further information or an informal conversation, please contact henry@langleyabbeyestate.co.uk

To apply, submit cv to suzanne@langleyabbeyestate.co.uk