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- Tasks: Lead ecological projects and deliver high-quality assessments in the water sector.
- Company: Join Southern Ecological Solutions, a dynamic ecological consultancy within the RSK Group.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, birthday leave, private medical insurance, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity and conservation while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: 5+ years of consultancy experience in ecology, especially in water-related projects.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive team that values collaboration and innovation.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced ecologist with experience within the water industry? Looking for a fresh new challenge within your career? Want to be a part of a team with an inclusive, dynamic working culture that values collaboration, technical excellence, and career progression? Well then this could be the perfect opportunity for you!
SES is an established ecological consultancy with specialist services across terrestrial ecology, aquatic ecology, habitat restoration, UKHab, BNG assessments, and protected species licensing. As part of the RSK Group, we work at the interface of nature conservation, infrastructure development, and environmental innovation.
We've built a strong track record delivering ecological solutions for water utility companies, regulatory authorities, engineering consultancies, and landowners. Our work spans catchment-wide biodiversity assessments, habitat enhancement delivery, river corridor assessments, and protected species mitigation linked to water infrastructure schemes.
The role: Southern Ecological Solutions (SES), part of the RSK Group, is currently seeking a driven Senior Ecologist to lead and expand our delivery of high-quality ecological and habitat services across the water sector. This is a full-time, permanent role based in the Midlands, North of England or South East, with flexible hybrid or remote working options available.
You will have strong technical ecology credentials, experience in water-linked infrastructure or conservation projects, and a passion for delivering pragmatic, value-driven solutions in complex environments. You will also take the lead on major projects, manage ecological inputs into freshwater and terrestrial schemes, and contribute to the strategic growth of SES's Midlands ecology team.
Your Role:
- Manage and oversee ecological surveys, impact assessments, and mitigation strategies for major water-related and terrestrial infrastructure projects.
- Lead UKHab, BNG, and protected species assessments for pipeline routes, reservoir works, nature-based solutions, and mine water remediation.
- Deliver high-quality outputs aligned with client objectives and regulatory compliance.
- Build trusted relationships with clients across the water, utilities, and environmental sectors.
- Identify opportunities to grow our presence in aquatic ecology, river restoration, and biodiversity net gain delivery.
- Prepare tenders and contribute to framework bids across sectors.
- Support and mentor junior ecologists and field survey teams across the Midlands and North.
- Help embed SES's high standards of data integrity, health and safety, and ecological best practice.
- Provide senior oversight on complex ecological scopes, bringing a pragmatic, solution-led approach to risk and mitigation.
- Contribute to internal knowledge sharing and represent SES within professional networks and industry forums.
- Promote innovation in data collection, remote survey methods, and GIS-based habitat mapping across water environments.
Key experience & Qualifications:
- Ideally you will have a minimum of 5 years' consultancy experience with significant field and project management skills.
- A strong understanding of UKHab classification and Biodiversity Net Gain metrics and previous experience mentoring staff and leading field teams would be desirable.
- A degree (or higher) in ecology or a related field.
- FISC Level 4 or equivalent botanical ID experience strongly desirable or experienced with protected species.
- A full UK driving license and willingness to travel to field locations would be required for this role.
What We Offer:
- Along with a competitive salary of between £30,000 - £40,000+ based on experience and qualifications, you will also enjoy a wide range of other benefits including:
- Birthday Leave: Enjoy a day off to celebrate your birthday.
- Life Assurance: Benefit from our life assurance plan to provide peace of mind.
- Pension Contributions: Receive contributions to your pension plan to support your future.
- Generous Holiday Allowance: Start with 20 days of holiday (plus bank holidays), increasing by 1 day per year up to a maximum of 28 days.
- 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 and rapid progression for ambitious candidates.
We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We firmly believe that embracing and celebrating the diversity in our workforce makes us a stronger and more innovative company.
Senior Ecologist (Water Industry) in Swadlincote employer: Southern Ecological Solutions (SES)
Contact Detail:
Southern Ecological Solutions (SES) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Ecologist (Water Industry) in Swadlincote
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the ecology and water sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching SES and their projects. Familiarise yourself with their work in aquatic ecology and biodiversity net gain. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in joining their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the Senior Ecologist role. Highlight your project management skills and any leadership experience you have. Confidence is key when showcasing your expertise!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about wanting to join SES and contribute to their mission in the water industry.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Ecologist (Water Industry) in Swadlincote
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Ecologist role. Highlight your experience in the water industry and any relevant projects you've led. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about ecology and how you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention specific experiences that relate to the job description.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: We’re keen on your technical credentials, so don’t hold back! Include any relevant certifications or training, especially in UKHab classification and Biodiversity Net Gain metrics. This will help us see your expertise at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Southern Ecological Solutions (SES)
✨Know Your Ecology Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your technical knowledge related to aquatic and terrestrial ecology. Be prepared to discuss specific projects you've worked on, especially those linked to water infrastructure. This will show that you not only understand the theory but also have practical experience.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Ecologist, you'll be expected to lead projects and mentor junior staff. Think of examples where you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past. Highlight your ability to deliver high-quality outputs while maintaining client relationships.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Southern Ecological Solutions values collaboration and innovation. Familiarise yourself with their recent projects and initiatives. During the interview, express how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their inclusive and dynamic working culture.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, team dynamics, and future projects. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you as well.
