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- Tasks: Lead ecological projects, manage surveys, and ensure high standards in ecological practices.
- Company: Join Sweco, a dynamic company focused on Nature Recovery and Natural Capital.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Be part of impactful projects while mentoring others in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Ecology or related field; experience in project management and report writing required.
- Other info: Opportunity for career progression and to work with protected species.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We are looking for a Principal Ecologist who is enthusiastic, curious and looking for that next challenge. This role can be worked flexibly with a minimum of 3 days per week in the office/on site and the option of adjusted start and finish times. We have an amazing opportunity to be a key part of driving our strategies with regards to Nature Recovery, BNG and Natural Capital.
This is an exciting time to join Sweco and if you want to be part of a company who is small in all the best ways but large enough to provide a diverse and exciting workload, this job is for you.
What does the role involve?
- Managing all ecological aspects of projects ensuring best practice is embedded throughout our processes and we’re delivering to a high standard.
- Preparing competitive bids and tenders, managing site surveys and approving ecology proposals and reports for both technical robustness and branding.
Role responsibilities may include:
- Managing large/complex projects
- Liaising with project managers and clients on the delivery of ecological requirements within multi-disciplinary tenders and projects
- Undertaking desk studies and site based preliminary ecological appraisals, including detailed habitat surveys to accurately describe and map habitats and assess their potential to support notable/protected species
- Analysis, evaluation, interpretation and presentation of ecological data
- Technical report writing including production of preliminary ecological appraisal reports, ecological impact assessments, and protected species licence applications
- Performing the role of an Ecological Clerk of Works on construction projects
In return you’ll get to work on key projects, and we’ll provide the support and development you need as you work towards gaining licences to work with different protected species.
To be successful in this role you’ll have:
- Experience in managing large/complex projects in the ecology sector within a professional consultancy
- A passion for inspiring and mentoring less experienced team members
- A thorough understanding of UK survey methodology following relevant legislation, guidelines and best practice.
- Experience conducting preliminary ecological appraisals (PEA), protected species surveys and/or habitat surveys
- Report writing experience including PEA reports, Ecological Impact Assessments, HRA’s and protected species licences
- A degree in Ecology, Environmental or Earth Sciences or a related discipline
- CIEEM membership
- Eligible for CEnv/CEcol
- Protected species survey licence (desirable)
- Current and full driving licence and willingness to travel to sites
If you believe you have the skill set required, are keen to join a business with genuine opportunities for career progression, then we’d love to hear from you.
Principal Ecologist employer: Sweco
Contact Detail:
Sweco Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Ecologist
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the ecology sector. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to connect with others who work at Sweco or similar companies. This can help you gain insights into the company culture and potentially get a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Sweco's recent projects and initiatives related to Nature Recovery and Natural Capital. Being knowledgeable about their work will allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience managing large and complex ecological projects. Think of specific examples where you successfully led a project, overcame challenges, and delivered high-quality results, as this is a key requirement for the Principal Ecologist role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your mentoring skills by preparing examples of how you've supported less experienced team members in the past. Highlighting your ability to inspire and guide others will align well with the company's values and expectations for this position.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Ecologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in managing large and complex ecological projects. Emphasise your skills in report writing, particularly for preliminary ecological appraisals and ecological impact assessments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for ecology and your enthusiasm for the role. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to mentor team members and manage projects effectively.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly list your qualifications, including your degree in Ecology or related fields, CIEEM membership, and any protected species survey licences. This will help you stand out as a qualified candidate.
Showcase Your Understanding of Legislation: In your application, demonstrate your thorough understanding of UK survey methodology and relevant legislation. This is crucial for the role and will show that you are well-prepared for the responsibilities involved.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sweco
✨Show Your Passion for Ecology
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for ecology and nature recovery during the interview. Share specific examples of projects you've worked on that demonstrate your commitment to environmental sustainability and how you’ve inspired others in your field.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to UK survey methodology, ecological assessments, and report writing. Brush up on relevant legislation and best practices, and be ready to discuss your experience with preliminary ecological appraisals and protected species surveys.
✨Demonstrate Project Management Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience managing large or complex projects. Highlight your ability to liaise with project managers and clients, and provide examples of how you've successfully delivered ecological requirements within multi-disciplinary teams.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Show your interest in the company and the role by asking thoughtful questions. Inquire about their current projects, strategies for nature recovery, and opportunities for professional development. This demonstrates your eagerness to contribute and grow within the organisation.