Assistant Ecologist (Wilder Ecology Consultancy)

This is an exciting opportunity to join Suffolk Wildlife Trust’s Wilder Ecology Consultancy team as an Assistant Ecologist. Based at Brooke House, with regular travel across the county, the role is central to delivering high-quality ecological consultancy work that supports wildlife recovery and nature-positive development.

As part of the Wilder Ecology team, you will work alongside experienced ecologists to deliver a variety of ecological assessments, surveys and reports for a wide range of clients. You will take ownership of smaller projects, while contributing to larger, complex ones under the guidance of the Ecology Manager and Senior Ecologists. Your work will help towards achieving Suffolk Wildlife Trust’s ambitious goal for 30% of the county to be well connected and thriving for nature by 2030.

The role involves undertaking a wide range of habitat and species surveys, including UK Habitat Assessments, protected species surveys and ecological clerk of works support. You will also contribute to Biodiversity Net Gain calculations to produce clear, high-quality technical reports based on your findings. Competence in GIS mapping and data analysis will be key to delivering accurate outputs.

As an Assistant Ecologist, you will act as an ambassador for Suffolk Wildlife Trust, upholding professional standards and promoting the Trust’s vision of a Wilder Suffolk. You will have the opportunity to work collaboratively with colleagues across the Trust, supporting broader conservation projects and contributing to ecological monitoring efforts across the county.

The successful candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to Suffolk Wildlife Trust’s mission and a genuine passion for wildlife conservation. You will have excellent communication skills, with the ability to work confidently with a range of stakeholders, both independently and as part of a collaborative team. Experience in ecology is essential, along with good botanical and species identification skills and proficiency in Microsoft 365 and GIS software.

They will be professional, organised, and detail-oriented, capable of producing high-quality technical reports and contributing effectively to ecological assessments and surveys. A commitment to continuous professional development, including progression toward CIEEM membership, is expected. Knowledge of relevant environmental legislation, planning policy and Biodiversity Net Gain principles is desirable, as are strong negotiation and conflict-resolution skills.

A full driving licence and access to a vehicle are required, as the role involves travel and occasional evening or weekend work. Above all, this position offers a fantastic opportunity to develop your career in ecological consultancy while making a tangible contribution to wildlife conservation in Suffolk.

This is a highly rewarding opportunity to develop your career in ecology, with a clear pathway for progression to a qualified Ecologist. The Trust offers funded Continuing Professional Development, in-house mentoring & training and support towards achieving CIEEM membership.

The role is a permanent full-time position working 37.5 hours per week (standard hours are Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm). Please note there may be some evening and weekend working. The starting salary will be up to £24,500 per annum. Applications will be considered from those looking for part-time hours.

To apply for this opportunity, please submit an application via our website by 9:00am on Monday 01 December 2025. The application process will include uploading a CV and optional cover letter. The interviews are planned for Monday 08 and Tuesday 09 December 2025 at our Head Office Brooke House in Ashbocking. Please indicate on the application your availability for interview (between 9:30am and 4:00pm).

Annual leave entitlement starts at 33 days per annum (including Bank Holidays), increasing annually to 38 days plus employees receive an extra day off for their birthday. We offer a 9% employer pension contribution with no employee contribution required, free 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme, free life insurance from day one of employment, free access to a private GP and discounts at high street retailers. Staff can also enjoy a 10% discount in our visitor centre cafes, including retail.

Suffolk Wildlife Trust is committed to an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone is welcome. As a conservation charity, we recognise the importance of diversity in both nature and our workforce of staff and volunteers. We strive to ensure that everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute to our vision of “A Wilder Suffolk where nature is thriving and abundant because everyone is doing more to help”.