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- Tasks: Lead exciting projects in botany, focusing on renewable energy and commercial developments.
- Company: Join Avian Ecology, a leader in ecological consultancy with a reputation for excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the renewables sector while mentoring future ecologists.
- Qualifications: Degree in Ecology or Environmental Science and consultancy experience required.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with strong support for career progression.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Avian Ecology is looking for a Senior/Principal Botanist to join our team of skilled professionals, in response to our continuing growth, particularly in the renewables sector. Over the last decade, Avian Ecology has earned a reputation for professional excellence and delivering services to the highest standards, on projects of all scales across the UK. Our clients are from both the public and private sectors and our project portfolio is diverse, challenging and interesting.
Avian Ecology provides a professional and progressive environment. We are committed to attracting and retaining the highest calibre of personnel and provide them with an opportunity to flourish in a team where excellence and progression is encouraged, supported and rewarded. We offer a strong remuneration package in a friendly, dynamic and flexible working environment, and we support and encourage professional development and training.
The successful candidate will ideally be based in our Lower Stretton (near Warrington) office or Falkirk, although hybrid (remote/home working) will be considered. As Senior/Principal Botanist you will lead on your own projects and support the existing team. Project work will be varied, but there will be a strong focus on renewable energy schemes as well as other commercial development projects. You will work closely with our clients, providing clear advice and robust documentation to support projects across the UK. Liaison with planning authorities, statutory agencies and stakeholders is a key part of the role. In this role you will also help co-ordinate our team of ecologists and oversee sub-consultants, providing support, technical review and mentoring expertise.
Key Skills/Experience:
- A relevant Ecology or Environmental degree
- Previous Consultancy Experience
- Demonstrable experience in advising clients on the botany requirements of their projects.
- Strong experience of botanical fieldwork at FISC Level 3 (minimum) and of carrying out surveys as part of infrastructure design or construction.
- Ability to provide clear, succinct and robust technical reports, including Ecological Impact Assessments and Technical Appendices.
- A strong understanding of relevant and emerging UK wide environmental/ecological policy and legislation.
- Strong communication skills, including experience of working as part of a wider EIA team.
- Adept at developing strong relationships with clients, statutory agencies and stakeholders.
- Confident in mentoring our ecologists with a particular interest in botany.
- A full UK Driving license, access to a vehicle and willingness to travel across the UK.
Desirable:
- Experience of undertaking advanced botanical surveys e.g. NVC
- Experience of undertaking a range of other protected species surveys
- Experience of surveying upland habitats
You will be a flexible, diligent and pro-active person who is motivated to work either alone or as part of a team to consistently high standards. Whilst some site visits and occasional participation in field surveys will be required, this is not a field role. Consultancy experience is required for this role. Candidates will have a relevant degree and preferably be a CIEEM member, as well as a full clean driving license. This is a full-time permanent role. Salary will be competitive and dependent on experience.
Senior/Principal Botanist employer: Origin Environmental
Contact Detail:
Origin Environmental Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior/Principal Botanist
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn. The more you engage with others, the better your chances of landing that Senior/Principal Botanist role.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience in botanical fieldwork and consultancy. Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous projects to really impress them!
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every job is different, so don’t be afraid to tweak your pitch for each opportunity. Focus on how your skills align with Avian Ecology’s needs, especially in renewable energy schemes and ecological assessments.
✨Apply Through Our Website
We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It shows you're genuinely interested and gives us a chance to see your application in the best light. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior/Principal Botanist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior/Principal Botanist role. Highlight your relevant experience in botany and consultancy, and don’t forget to showcase any projects you've led that align with renewable energy schemes.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about botany and how your skills can contribute to Avian Ecology’s mission. Be sure to mention your experience with ecological impact assessments and your ability to liaise with clients.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since strong communication is key for this role, make sure your application reflects your ability to convey complex information clearly. Whether it’s through your CV or cover letter, demonstrate how you’ve successfully worked with clients and stakeholders in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Origin Environmental
✨Know Your Botany Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your botanical knowledge, especially regarding UK flora and relevant ecological policies. Be prepared to discuss specific projects you've worked on and how your expertise can benefit Avian Ecology's focus on renewable energy schemes.
✨Showcase Your Consultancy Experience
Highlight your previous consultancy roles and the impact you've made in those positions. Be ready to provide examples of how you've advised clients on botany requirements and navigated complex project demands, as this will demonstrate your fit for the Senior/Principal Botanist role.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about your experience with Ecological Impact Assessments and technical reports. Practise explaining your methodologies clearly and succinctly, as strong communication skills are essential for liaising with clients and stakeholders.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Mentoring Skills
Since you'll be overseeing a team of ecologists, be prepared to discuss your mentoring approach. Share examples of how you've supported junior staff in the past and how you plan to foster a collaborative environment at Avian Ecology.