Assistant Ecologists

Location: Hybrid – within reasonable commuting distance of Leeds or Stroud
Contract Type: Full-time, permanent
Salary: £27,000 plus bonus & profit share schemes

Join a new kind of ecology consultancy — one founded on expertise, driven by purpose, and built for success.

We’re an ambitious new consultancy with deep roots in the industry. Backed by decades of combined professional ecological experience, a trusted contact book, and a proven track record of delivering high-quality work, we’re now looking to expand our core team.

We are looking for a passionate and driven Assistant Ecologist to join our developing ecological consultancy. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone early in their career who is keen to gain hands-on experience across a diverse range of ecological projects and grow with a new consultancy led by experienced directors.

About the Role

As an Assistant Ecologist, you’ll support senior team members in delivering field surveys, reporting, and mitigation across a range of UK habitats and protected species. You’ll work on site and in the office (or remotely), contributing to ecological appraisals, ecological impact assessments, biodiversity net gain assessments, mitigation strategies and habitat management plans.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with habitat and protected species surveys (e.g. bats, dormouse, water vole, great crested newts, reptiles, badgers)
• Support the preparation of ecological reports and mapping using QGIS
• Carry out desk studies and data analysis
• Maintain survey equipment and field data records
• Ensure work is delivered on time and to a high standard
• Follow best practice guidance and health and safety procedures
• Contribute to a collaborative team culture

About You

We’re looking for someone who is enthusiastic, proactive, and eager to learn and develop their career as a professional ecological consultant.

Essential:

• A relevant degree (or equivalent) in ecology, environmental science, or a related field
• Basic knowledge of UK habitats and protected species
• Good communication and organisational skills
• QGIS, data analysis or mapping skills
• Full driving licence and access to a vehicle (or ability to travel to sites by other means)

Desirable:

• Experience of ecological surveys (through work, volunteering or university projects)
• Understanding of key legislation and guidance (e.g. Wildlife & Countryside Act, CIEEM standards)
• Membership or eligibility for membership of CIEEM (or a similar professional body)

Why Join Us?

• A supportive, dynamic and friendly team environment
• Training and mentoring from experienced ecologists
• Clear framework for progression, with budgets for training, professional membership and licences
• Competitive salary and benefits package, with TOIL, discretionary bonus scheme, profit share scheme (eligibility criteria apply), generous pension contribution, health care plan, cycle to work scheme and others
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, plus Christmas closure, with an additional day per year with the company, and option to buy or sell up to 5 days
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Supportive, ethical, and inclusive team culture
• A focus on quality, integrity, and professionalism

We have offices in Leeds and the Cotswolds (Stroud) and are looking for team members to live within reasonable commuting distance of one of our offices. We work on a hybrid basis, with a flexible approach. While our projects are across England and Wales and some travel and occasional overnight stays will be required (with notice given in advance), we are focused on ensuring our team have a good work-life balance.

Red Ecology is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments in our recruitment process and employment practices for candidates and employees with disabilities.