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- Tasks: Lead ecological projects and ensure best practices for nature recovery and natural capital.
- Company: Join Sweco, a dynamic company with a friendly and inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, and generous holiday allowance.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on society while working on exciting ecological projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in ecology project management and a degree in a related field.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Do you have what it takes to transform society? We are looking for a Senior/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? As a Senior/Principal Ecologist you’ll manage all ecological aspects of projects ensuring best practice is embedded throughout our processes and we’re delivering to a high standard. You’ll prepare competitive bids and tenders, manage site surveys and approve ecology proposals and reports for both technical robustness and branding.
Responsibilities- 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
- 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
- Flexible and hybrid working (Flexworks Policy)
- Competitive pension contribution
- Life Assurance
- Private Medical Insurance
- Company car or car allowance (principal level)
- Discretionary Annual Bonus Scheme
- Payment of two relevant professional subscriptions
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays (with the option to purchase up to 5 additional days per year).
- Cycle2Work Scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme (wellbeing, mental health, financial and work advice).
- Employee discounts via Sweco Benefit Select (Faircare)
- Salary Sacrifice Electric Vehicle Scheme
- We plant a tree for all new starters!
It’s important to us that all our colleagues thrive at work – we strive to have a friendly and inclusive culture which respects the contribution individuals can bring to Sweco. We aim to promote equality, inclusivity and diversity for everyone. We encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. We have signed the Armed Forces Covenant to ensure those who serve or have served, and their families, are treated fairly. We are an accredited Real Living Wage Employer which reflects our commitment to fair pay and support for all colleagues. We are also proud to be a Disability Confident Committed employer, and will interview applicants covered by the Equality Act 2010 that opt into the guaranteed interview scheme on the application form and meet the minimum criteria for the role.
Let’s work together to transform society.
Senior/Principal Ecologist employer: Sweco
Contact Detail:
Sweco Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior/Principal Ecologist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the ecology field and let them know you're on the lookout for new opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of UK survey methodologies and recent ecological legislation. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show potential employers that you’re not just passionate, but also well-informed.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a strong online presence! Update your LinkedIn profile with your latest projects and achievements in ecology. This can help you stand out to recruiters and hiring managers looking for someone with your expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got some fantastic roles waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team at Sweco.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior/Principal Ecologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for ecology shine through! We want to see your curiosity and passion for nature recovery and how you can contribute to our exciting projects.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in managing large and complex projects. We love seeing how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the Senior/Principal Ecologist role, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise: In your written application, clarity is key. Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts well. This will help us understand your qualifications and how you can fit into our team at Sweco.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity to transform society with us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sweco
✨Know Your Ecology Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK survey methodologies and relevant legislation. Be prepared to discuss your experience with preliminary ecological appraisals and protected species surveys, as these will likely come up during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Since this role involves managing large and complex projects, be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led similar projects in the past. Highlight your ability to liaise with project managers and clients effectively.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to answer technical questions related to ecological data analysis and report writing. Familiarise yourself with the types of reports you'll be expected to produce, like Ecological Impact Assessments, and be ready to discuss your approach to ensuring technical robustness.
✨Emphasise Your Mentoring Experience
As a Senior/Principal Ecologist, you'll be inspiring and mentoring less experienced team members. Share any relevant experiences where you've guided others, showcasing your leadership skills and passion for developing talent within the ecology sector.