At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct ecological surveys and assessments, and design mitigation strategies for diverse projects.
- Company: Join a friendly, employee-owned eco-focused team at Hankinson Duckett Associates.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, training opportunities, and tax breaks on bonuses.
- Other info: Work in a beautiful office by the River Thames with excellent transport links.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in wildlife conservation while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: BSc in relevant field, passion for wildlife, and experience in ecological assessments required.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Hankinson Duckett Associates (HDA) is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Ecologist/Senior Ecologist to join our friendly team within our growing practice.
About us
HDA is a team of ecologists, landscape architects and arboriculturalists who collaborate to ensure that the environment is at the forefront of development decisions. We have a well-established national client base within both the private and public sectors, and our advice is sought at all stages of the planning, design and implementation process for a wide range of development types and environmental projects. HDA was founded in 1998 and has recently become an employee owned trust (EOT), meaning that HDA is managed for the benefit of its employees.
What we do
The work of our ecology team involves protected species and habitat surveys, ecological assessments (including Biodiversity Net Gain), and design and implementation of mitigation schemes. We are also highly regarded for our habitat design, enhancement and creation works, and preparation of habitat management plans. Within the wider practice we also carry out landscape assessment and design, and provide arboricultural surveys and advice.
What we offer
- Competitive salary
- Flexible/hybrid working
- Generous training and bonus schemes
- Tax breaks on EOT bonuses
- Ownership of projects, proportionate to your skills and experience, supported by a talented team of senior and junior members of staff
- Training to develop your professional career
HDA is committed to Equal Opportunities for all. Our beautiful, Grade II listed office is situated next to the River Thames in the grounds of Howbery Park, surrounded by picturesque Oxfordshire towns and villages, yet within easy reach of the city of Oxford to the north, and Reading to the south, by car and public transport.
Applicants should demonstrate the following, proportionate to the position being applied for:
- Education to at least BSc level in a relevant discipline (or equivalent experience)
- A true passion for wildlife and a good knowledge of British fauna and flora, with ability to carry out and co-ordinate surveys for a wide range of habitats and species
- Experience in the preparation of Ecological Impact Assessments for a variety of schemes
- Excellent report writing and communication skills
- Experience in the design and implementation of cost and time efficient mitigation strategies
- Experience in management of a diverse range of projects
- Thorough knowledge of nature conservation legislation, best practice guidance and understanding of the UK planning system
- A full driving licence and car ownership
- Strong interpersonal skills, with ability to inspire and work well alongside colleagues, clients and consultees
- Ability to confidently advise clients and consultees on a wide range of ecological matters
- Ability to deliver projects on time and on budget
- Hold or qualify for membership of CIEEM (ACIEEM or MCIEEM)
Ideally, the successful candidate will have experience in ecological consultancy, including time at a senior level (for a Senior Ecologist position), and hold at least one licence to survey for European Protected Species. A proven ability to win new clients and develop existing relationships would also be regarded as a distinct advantage.
This is a full-time position but consideration would also be given to part-time working for the appropriate candidate.
The closing date for applications is Monday 14 September 2026.
Ecologist/Senior Ecologist employer: Pect
PECT is an exceptional employer that champions a collaborative and innovative work culture, dedicated to making a tangible impact on water and river conservation. Employees benefit from professional growth opportunities, engaging in meaningful advocacy work while being supported by a passionate team committed to environmental sustainability. Located in a vibrant community, PECT offers a unique chance to influence policy at a national level, ensuring that your contributions directly support the protection of the UK's precious waterways.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Ecologist/Senior Ecologist
✨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 Pect.
✨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 Pect and can help us land that full-time gig.
We think you need these skills to ace Ecologist/Senior Ecologist
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 Pect.
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. Pect 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 Ecologist/Senior Ecologist at Pect. 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 Pect
✨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 Pect, 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 Pect 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.
