Location: Knutsford, Cheshire
Salary: £45,000-£55,000 dependent on experience
Contract Type: Full or part-time, Permanent
About the Role
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced office-based Senior Technical
Ecologist to join our dynamic team. This is an excellent opportunity for an individual
with a strong ecological background who thrives in a technical and advisory role, supporting
projects from inception to completion.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide expert technical advice and support on ecological assessments, site-based
biodiversity strategies, and long-term habitat management plans. - Lead the review, analysis, and interpretation of ecological survey data, ensuring
compliance with legislation and best practices. - Prepare and review technical reports, including protected species licence applications,
Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA), UK Habitat Classification (UK Hab), Ecological Impact
Assessments (EcIA), Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRA), and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)
condition assessments and calculations. - Manage ecological input for planning applications, liaising with clients, internal
management, regulatory bodies and other key stakeholders. - Directly oversee junior ecologists and provide mentorship to support their technical
development. - Keep up to date with ecological policy changes, legislation, and industry best practices.
- Support business development, including input to complex tenders and client proposals.
Essential Requirements
- Degree (BSc or MSc) in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field.
- Minimum of 5 years’ experience in ecological consultancy or a related sector.
- Strong understanding of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy, and ecological best
practices. - Demonstrable experience in preparing and reviewing high quality technical reports.
- Knowledge and awareness of planning policy and process in relation to ecology and
biodiversity including BS42020:2013, UKBAP species & habitats - Experience with Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments and mitigation strategies.
- Excellent working knowledge of protected and invasive species as well as habitats as
identified in planning policy and EU/UK legislation. - Proficiency in GIS mapping and data analysis tools.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to engage with a range of stakeholders.
- Membership of CIEEM (or eligibility to apply).
Desirable Skills
- Protected species disturbance licences (e.g., bat, great crested newt, dormouse, etc.).
- Proven track record of writing and securing Natural England mitigation licences.
Benefits
- Competitive salary and benefits package including private health insurance, funded
professional body membership and personalised pension scheme. - Flexible and hybrid working options.
- Continued professional development and significant individual training budget
- TOIL (time off in lieu) policy and flexible approach to working hours plus the day off for
your birthday. - Cycle to work scheme.
- Discretionary bonus.
- Supportive and collaborative team environment.