Ecologist

Job Description

As our Ecologist, you will join our dedicated in-house Environmental team, playing an integral role in the implementation of our Environmental Strategy. You will carry out ecological studies across a range of projects and environments, identifying and advising how we can balance business requirements with those of the environment.

As our Ecologist, you will be responsible for:

1. Producing Preliminary Ecological Assessments (PEAs)
2. Assisting with Ecological Impact Assessments (ECIAs) and Habitat Regulations Assessments (HRAs) and feedback findings
3. Assisting/leading on protected species surveys and reports
4. Undertaking ecological data collection, analysis, monitoring and reporting
5. Supporting with/leading on protected species/habitat mitigation measures – implementing, monitoring and providing periodic updates
6. Supporting the professional development of Assistant Ecologists within the team
7. Providing regular updates to colleagues and the Environment Manager

To be successful as our Ecologist, we would ideally like you to have the following skills/experience:

1. A degree in Environment/Ecology-related subject
2. Associate Membership of CIEEM (or working towards/willingness to achieve)
3. Experience of working on projects, including a variety of protected species/habitats
4. Survey class licenses for protected species (Dormouse, GCN, Badger, Bat)
5. Knowledge of relevant UK wildlife legislation
6. Report-writing experience
7. Experience of working on infrastructure projects, ideally within the Rail industry
8. Confidence/experience with GIS/GPS Mapping

What else are we looking for?

1. You will be confident working with various tools and possess a good working knowledge of health and safety practices
2. You will take pride in your work, completing tasks to a high standard – self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a team
3. A natural ability to build good working relationships with clients and colleagues
4. Methodical approach to problem-solving with excellent attention to detail

This role can be physically demanding, and some tasks will be at heights. You will be required to work outside from time to time, so you must be happy to work in all that the British weather has to offer.

What can you expect from us?

1. Competitive basic salary (reviewed annually)
2. Company vehicle & fuel card
3. Annual bonus (based on company performance)
4. Company pension scheme
5. Employee Assistance Programme – to support mental/physical health and provide legal/financial advice if required
6. Access to online GP service for you/your family 24/7
7. Rewards & discounts for retail/leisure & more
8. Regular social events like our Summer Family Day & The COOMBESmas (Christmas) party
9. Length of service awards to celebrate significant milestones
10. Opportunities to support COOMBES Social Value objectives (community volunteering/fundraising, etc.)

COOMBES UK are a leading Arboricultural and Forestry Contractor, with over 20 years’ experience and expertise in the Forestry sector. We have forged a strong industry reputation, and we believe we have an unrivalled skill set and peerless knowledge of Forestry work at all levels.

COOMBES play a key role within the Rail industry, providing a whole manner of off-track solutions and minor civils works, in partnership with Network Rail and other major contractors.

Following recent, significant growth, we currently have some exciting projects underway in woodland management, timber harvesting, rail and civils works across the UK. We have a strong record of achievement and are committed to meeting the growing demands for safe and efficient delivery.

A family-run SME, we believe in working collaboratively and operating as one team. Our success is only achieved through the hard work, dedication and skill of our people. Operating with transparency and integrity in all that we do, we take responsibility for our actions, empowering and supporting each other to be the best, most authentic version of ourselves consistently.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion:

We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.

We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds and provide equal opportunities, whilst ensuring that all employees and applicants are treated fairly and with respect.

Even if you don't meet all the qualifications or have all the experience listed, we still encourage you to apply. You may just be the ideal candidate for this role or suitable for future vacancies. We are always keen to speak with talented individuals with an interest in joining us here at COOMBES and look forward to hearing from you soon.

Agency Notice

We do not accept unsolicited CVs and will not be responsible for any fees relating to this. Please contact the Recruitment Team for further information.