Bat Ecologists in Bristol

SLR Consulting, a global leader in sustainability solutions, is expanding its Ecology and Biodiversity team in the UK. We seek licensed bat ecologists (Natural England Class 2 and above) with proven experience in securing mitigation licences, including Bat Earned Recognition (BER) registered consultants (Levels 1-3) or those eligible to be accredited. The role is based across our England office locations and may require short-term travel throughout the UK and occasionally overseas.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake a range of bat surveys: Daytime Bat Walkover, Preliminary Roost Assessments (PRA), dusk emergence and dawn return surveys, backtracking, hibernation, Ground Level Tree Assessment (GLTA), and advanced techniques such as trapping and radiotracking.
• Record and manage survey data using in-house apps and automation software, working closely with the digital team to maximise efficiencies.
• Complete BER site registrations, EPSL licensing and mitigation works.
• Accurately analyse bat data in a timely manner; holding a Certificate of Bat Acoustics Analysis is advantageous.
• Supervise mitigation works and implement method statements.
• Contribute to technical reports and prepare documents for BER site registrations and European Protected Species Licences (EPSL).
• Design and oversee bat mitigation and compensation strategies for various species, including hibernation and maternity roosts, across linear infrastructure, complex structures, major power projects and renewable energy sites.
• Produce technical reports and management plans.
• Provide bat expertise to multidisciplinary project teams.
• Mentor junior ecologists and deliver training to the national team where required.
• Liaise with other SLR technical teams on planning, landscape, hydrology, noise, and air quality matters.
• Collaborate with clients, stakeholders and regulatory bodies as needed.
• Potential staff management duties depending on skill set and role objectives.

Qualifications and Experience

• Demonstrable experience in bat surveys, licensing, mitigation and supervision; experience across ecological consultancy practice is welcomed.
• Holder of a Natural England Class 2 bat licence or higher, with proven competence in bat survey and mitigation.
• Bat Earned Recognition consultant (Level 1–3) or eligibility for accreditation.
• Full understanding of ecological legislation and policy throughout the UK.
• Proactive in technical knowledge development, training, and mentoring junior staff.
• BSc in Ecology, Biological Science, Zoology or equivalent (MSc desirable).
• Eligible for CIEEM membership (level dependent on grade).
• Strong theoretical grounding in ecology and environmental assessment.
• Experience in project management: planning and scheduling surveys, budget management and client liaison.
• Full UK driving licence.

Benefits and Working Conditions

• Competitive salaries, pension scheme, comprehensive healthcare package, travel and life insurance, and a structured career framework with regular reviews.
• 25 days annual leave plus additional flexible bank holidays.
• Flexible, agile and hybrid working arrangements with core hours to support work–life balance.

Equal Opportunities

SLR is committed to being an equal opportunities employer. All candidates are encouraged to apply, including those belonging to under-represented groups. We provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process upon request.