Graduate Ecologist

About the Role:

We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Graduate Ecologist to join our ecology team on a fixed-term contract. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate looking to gain ecological survey, reporting and data analysis experience during the busy ecological survey season.

You will be involved in ecological surveys on projects across the United Kingdom, so a willingness to work away from home during the week is essential. Your work will take place alongside experienced ecologists, so you will receive training and mentoring throughout the contract period.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in conducting ecological surveys, included but not limited to, UKHab Classification, habitat condition assessments and protected species surveys (e.g. bats).
• Produce high quality outputs for submission with planning applications.
• Provide support to senior ecologists and project managers in the planning and execution of ecological projects (e.g. data handling).
• Support with setting up and retrieving remote survey equipment (e.g. camera traps).
• Work flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, and overnight stays, as required.

Reporting & Data Support

• Assist in the preparation of reports including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs) and species survey reports.
• Assist in handling and management of survey data.
• Analyse bat data using Kaleidoscope software.
• Producing maps and figures for ecological reports.

Essential Skills & Qualifications:

• A degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Biology, or a related subject
• A basic understanding of UK wildlife legislation and ecological survey methods
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Willingness to work flexible hours and travel for fieldwork (including early mornings, evenings, and overnight stays during the working week)
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently

Desirable Skills & Experience:

• Practical experience from university projects, volunteer work, or seasonal jobs involving ecological survey work
• Familiarity with UKHab classification or Phase 1 habitat survey techniques
• Basic GIS skills (e.g. QGIS or ArcGIS)
• Qualifying membership of CIEEM