At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct exciting ecological surveys and manage diverse projects across the UK.
- Company: Join Southern Ecological Solutions, a leader in ecology consultancy with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, and hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental sustainability while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in ecology or related field; strong reporting and field skills required.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and targeted professional development for ambitious candidates.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you an inspiring or experienced ecologist looking for your new challenge within the ecology sector? Want to be involved in exciting new projects and learn from our industry-leading experts? Well then SES could have your next role right here!
About the Role
Southern Ecological Solutions (SES), part of the wider RSK Group, is seeking Ecologists at all career stages to join our growing and supportive team. Whether you are early in your consultancy career or an experienced ecologist looking to progress, this role offers the opportunity to work on a wide variety of projects across the UK, with genuine flexibility and strong mentoring. The role is well suited to ecologists with strong field and reporting skills, including those developing or holding botanical, protected species or BNG specialisms. You will be supported to manage your own workload, develop technical expertise, and shape your career within SES and the wider RSK Group.
Main Responsibilities:
- Undertaking baseline habitat surveys, assessments and reporting (including UKHab)
- Carrying out and/or supporting protected species surveys (e.g. bats, GCN, nesting birds)
- Preparing high-quality technical reports such as PEAs, EcIAs, protected species reports and BNG inputs
- Managing your own projects or supporting senior colleagues on more complex schemes
- Coordinating survey programmes, milestones and seasonal constraints
- Working collaboratively with SES ecologists across regions to ensure consistent, high-quality delivery
- Communicating effectively with clients to support timely and pragmatic project outcomes
Introduction to SES:
Southern Ecological Solutions is a trusted consultancy specialising in Ecology, Arboriculture, and Landscape Planning & Design. For over a decade, we’ve built a reputation for delivering pragmatic, innovative solutions to clients ranging from global corporations to private homeowners. At SES, you’ll have the opportunity to advance your career while contributing to environmentally sustainable growth. Be part of a company that champions innovation and values its people as much as the environment. We are also part of the RSK Group, a leading integrated environmental, engineering, and technical services business providing dynamic, multidisciplinary services to a wide range of sectors.
Key Experience & Qualifications:
Essential
- Degree (or equivalent experience) in ecology or a related discipline.
- Good working knowledge of UK ecology, legislation and survey methodologies.
- Ability to produce clear, accurate technical reports.
- Proactive approach to managing time, workloads and project delivery.
Desirable (depending on level):
- Botanical skills (including FISC Level 3 or 4, or working towards)
- Experience with Biodiversity Net Gain and UKHab assessments.
- One or more protected species licences (e.g. bats, GCN)
- CIEEM membership (or eligibility)
- Experience working within planning policy frameworks (e.g. NPPF and Local Plans)
You will also be required to have a full UK driving licence and use of your own vehicle for any ecology roles within SES.
Personal Attributes:
- Excellent communication skills.
- Being adaptable and happy working in different environments within the field.
- The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Good observation and interpretation skills.
- Excellent attention to detail.
Why Join Us?
Company Benefits:
- Salary Competitive Depending on experience.
- Birthday Leave: Enjoy a day off to celebrate your birthday in addition to your annual leave.
- Generous Holiday Allowance: Start with 23 days of holiday (plus bank holidays), increasing by 1 day per year up to a maximum of 28 days.
- Life Assurance: Benefit from our life assurance plan to provide peace of mind.
- Hybrid working: Flexible working from home, site and the office with flexible working hours (role dependent).
- Private Medical Insurance: Access private medical insurance to take care of your health.
- Flexible Benefits Programme: Tailor your benefits with options to buy additional holidays, health cash plans, and discounted gym memberships, allowing you to choose what suits you best.
- Targeted CPD plan: Support, and rapid progression for ambitious candidates.
- Professional membership: Fees will be covered by the company.
Apply today or for any further information or queries about the role please do get in touch with the team today.
RSK Group is an Inclusive Employer
Ecologists (All Levels) employer: RSK Group
Contact Detail:
RSK Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Ecologists (All Levels)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend ecology events, workshops, and seminars to meet industry experts and fellow ecologists. Don't be shy—introduce yourself and chat about your interests; you never know who might have a lead on your next job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your best work, including reports, surveys, and any projects you've been involved in. This will give potential employers a clear idea of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Get social! Follow SES and other companies on LinkedIn and engage with their posts. Share relevant content and insights to position yourself as a knowledgeable candidate in the ecology field.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team at SES. Don’t forget to tailor your approach for each role!
We think you need these skills to ace Ecologists (All Levels)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Ecologist role. Highlight any relevant projects or specialisms you have, especially in areas like habitat surveys or protected species.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about ecology and how your background makes you a great fit for SES. Be sure to mention any specific projects or experiences that excite you about this opportunity.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Since we value strong reporting skills, include examples of technical reports you've prepared. If you have experience with UKHab assessments or Biodiversity Net Gain, make sure to highlight that!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you on board with our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at RSK Group
✨Know Your Ecology Basics
Brush up on your knowledge of UK ecology, legislation, and survey methodologies. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your understanding of these areas, as they are crucial for the role.
✨Showcase Your Reporting Skills
Since producing clear and accurate technical reports is essential, bring along samples of your previous work. This will not only highlight your writing skills but also give you a chance to discuss your thought process behind the reports.
✨Demonstrate Your Project Management Abilities
Be ready to talk about how you've managed your own projects or supported senior colleagues in the past. Highlight any specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them, showcasing your proactive approach to project delivery.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Since excellent communication skills are vital for this role, consider doing mock interviews with friends or family to refine your ability to convey complex ecological concepts in an understandable way.