Senior Ecologist

Bennett and game are recruiting for a Senior Ecologist who is required to join a well-established and values-led ecological consultancy based near Lodsworth, West Sussex. The consultancy delivers a wide range of ecological services across the South of England, working on residential developments, historic buildings, renewable energy schemes, habitat banks, biodiversity audits and community engagement projects.

The successful Senior Ecologist will manage their own portfolio of projects, undertake and oversee protected species surveys, prepare technical reports and support junior members of the team. The consultancy works with a broad range of private and charitable clients, including regular projects for prominent conservation and heritage organisations.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Ecologist or Senior Ecologist seeking varied project work, strong career development and a supportive working environment. The company is currently operating a successful four-day working week trial, with employees working 32 hours across Monday to Thursday.

Senior Ecologist Salary & Benefits

Salary of £35,000-£40,000
32-hour working week across Monday to Thursday
Hybrid working, with a minimum of two days per week from the Lodsworth office
25.5 days' annual leave inclusive of Bank Holidays
Full private medical insurance
Additional payment of £6 per hour for unsociable hours
Access to company pool vehicles for work purposes
Annual salary reviews
Ongoing training and career development
Exposure to specialist survey equipment including thermal cameras, infrared cameras, static acoustic recorders, trail cameras and dronesSenior Ecologist Job Requirements

Relevant degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline
Approximately four or more years' experience within UK ecological consultancy
Experience independently managing ecology projects from initial survey through to reporting and delivery
Strong experience producing Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, protected species reports and mitigation strategies
Knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy and ecological best practice
Experience undertaking and leading protected species surveys
At least one protected species survey licence is highly desirable, with bat licensing experience particularly advantageous
Experience preparing or supporting EPS mitigation licence applications would be beneficial
Confidence liaising with clients, contractors and planning professionals
Experience supervising surveys and supporting junior ecologists
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Full UK driving licence
Willingness to travel across southern England and occasionally further afield
Ability to attend the Lodsworth office at least two days per weekSenior Ecologist Job Responsibilities

Manage a varied portfolio of ecological consultancy projects
Undertake, coordinate and lead protected species and habitat surveys
Prepare high-quality technical reports, including PEAs, EcIAs and protected species reports
Produce mitigation, enhancement and habitat management recommendations
Support and prepare protected species licence applications
Manage project budgets, deadlines and client expectations
Prepare quotations and fee proposals
Liaise with clients, planning authorities and other project stakeholders
Supervise and mentor junior ecologists
Review survey data and contribute to technical quality assurance
Support Biodiversity Net Gain assessments, habitat bank projects and habitat creation schemes
Assist with the development and implementation of emerging survey techniques and digital data collection methodsBennett and Game Recruitment are a multi-disciplined technical recruitment agency based in Chichester, West Sussex operating across the UK with specialist teams covering a range of industries.

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