Consultant/Senior Ecologist

Your new companyA budding environmental consultancy based in the Midlands that specialise in arboriculture, ecology, and topographical services. Their projects span across the UK and cover individual landowners, residential developments and minerals & waste of all scopes.They have excellent flexibility on remote working, office days and site visits - only expecting you to be in the Midlands-based office once a fortnight. This is a dog-friendly office in a rural countryside setting.Currently at a head count of 3 staff (with access to a network of subcontractors for survey support), working for this smaller organisation will allow you to have a large say in how they operate, and you'll be able to tailor your career with excellent development opportunities. They are looking to grow the Ecology and Arboriculture teams over the coming months and into next year, so join them now at the front end of their growthYour new roleYou will have a lot of autonomy in your role with support from a small internal team and vastly experienced subcontractors. Work on a range of projects, seeing them through from conception to completion; working remotely, in the office and attending sites.Responsibilities:Lead and manage ecological surveys and assessments, including PEA, BNG, protected species surveys, and ecological impact assessments (EcIAs).Providing expert advice and guidance to clients on ecological matters, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and best practice.Developing and implementing mitigation and enhancement strategies to minimise ecological impacts and deliver biodiversity net gain.Prepare high-quality ecological reports and technical documents.Mentoring and supporting junior ecologists, fostering a collaborative and supportive team environment.Project management, including budget control, invoicing, scheduling, and client liaison.Developing and maintaining strong relationships with clients, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies.It is also worth noting that you wouldn't be expected to pick up old projects where you have not been involved. Much of the current workload has been dealt with by partners, and therefore, you would only be picking up new projects.What you'll need to succeedA degree in Ecology or a related discipline.Extensive experience in ecological consultancy, with a proven track record of delivering successful projects.Comprehensive knowledge of UK habitat and protected species legislation and survey methodologies.Good botanical identification skills, ideally FISC level 3 and above.Experience in conducting EcIAs and preparing planning applications.Excellent report writing and communication skills.A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel.Protected species licenses are highly desirable.Experience with Biodiversity Net Gain calculations, implementation and reporting. Familiarity with BNG guidance and legislation is critical to this role.Keen to progress into a leadership role with a developing ecology team.What you'll get in return£30,000 - £45,000 (depending on experience)A lot of autonomy in your role. Make it your ownFlexibility to work remotelyExcellent work-life balanceDog-friendly officeFlexible working - My client understands everyone has a life outside work, so they always do what they can to accommodate the best life/work balance.Regular pay reviews.CPD budget and opportunities to upskill.Membership in industry bodies.Enhanced Maternity / Paternity pay (currently under review)No Timesheets Manage your own time, with time back where you exceed your contracted hours. An overtime system is available to help you track your time, should you choose.No large infrastructure projects We primarily deliver small to medium-sized projects, so no HS2, Rail or Highways projects.My client is currently reviewing their benefits. If there is a perk that you feel would be good, let me know, and they will review itWhat you need to do nowIf you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk