Assistant Ecologist & Seasonal Ecologist

Future Nature Wildlife Trust Consultancy

Hours of work: 37.5 hours per week (flexible in how worked). Part time hours will be considered. 

Type of contract: Permanent (Assistant Ecologist) / Fixed term (Seasonal Ecologist)

Based at: Hybrid working with 1-2 days per week office based (Berks, Bucks, Oxon)

Croner rank: 7

Job Purpose 

To support the delivery of ecological surveys, data collection, and technical reporting for a range of projects. The role is primarily fieldwork-focused during the survey season, with developing responsibility for report writing, data handling, and professional skills under the guidance of senior staff.  

Reporting Line

Reports directly to the Future Nature Senior Ecologist.

Line and Budgetary Management

This role has no line report or budgetary responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

·       Assist with a range of ecological surveys, including UKHab habitat surveys, BNG habitat condition assessments and a range of protected species surveys and develop species identification skills and survey competence

·       Collect accurate field data in accordance with survey methodologies and licence requirements

·       Assist with Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) data gathering

·       Support Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) duties on site

·       Care, preparation, and maintenance of field equipment

·       Assist in the preparation of ecological reports, including PEAs, protected species survey reports, enhancement strategies and management reports

·       Produce figures, maps, and appendices using GIS where required

·       Accurately enter and manage survey data

·       Support senior staff with data analysis and interpretation

·       Participate in internal training and mentoring and maintain a CPD record

·       Follow guidance from senior colleagues and licence holders

·       Develop knowledge of legislation and guidance and work in accordance with; the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 and CIEEM guidance and company procedures

·       Follow health & safety procedures

Person Specification

·         Understanding of biodiversity and ecological principles

·         Basic understanding of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy and the mitigation hierarchy

·         Some experience of undertaking UK habitat and protected species surveys (academic or voluntary acceptable).

·         Willingness to learn and a practical and adaptable approach to fieldwork

·         Ability to work as part of a team and independently in the field

·         Good attention to detail and data accuracy

·         Willingness to work flexible hours during survey season (time off in lieu is given), working outdoors in varied weather and terrain. Travel and occasional overnight stays

·         Good written and verbal communication skills

·         Good time management and organisational skills

·         Basic GIS skills (QGIS/ArcGIS)

·         Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel

·         Eligible for Qualifying Membership of CIEEM

Measurements Of Success

·         Consistently collects accurate, complete, and legible field data and stores it appropriately

·         Follows survey methodologies correctly without constant supervision

·         Demonstrates improving species ID skills over the season

·         Arrives prepared, punctual, and field-ready

·         Handles equipment correctly and responsibly