For further information on this vacancy and/or to apply for this position in complete confidence, please send a CV and Covering Letter, identifying how your qualifications, experience and attributes match the job description above.
Principal Ecology & Biodiversity Consultant
Arthian is recruiting for a Principal Ecology & Biodiversity Consultant to support the growth and development of their Ecology and Biodiversity Team in England. Whilst the role can be shaped around the right candidate in some respects, we are keen to hear from ecologists currently operating at upper senior or principal consultant-level who are confident in project delivery and can contribute to team management in aspects such as technical review, mentoring and/or financial management.
This is a fantastic opportunity for the right candidate to take on a wide range of projects across all sectors, as well working closely with the Ecology Director to support the continuing development of a knowledgeable and enthusiastic team. Our current project portfolio ranges from small, local single-plot developments, through Environmental Impact Assessment, and supporting large clients with their own biodiversity incentives, which has included designing bespoke biodiversity metrics and developing a framework of exciting biodiversity initiatives for a client’s full estate.
Arthian’s ‘hub’ of ecologists in England is in the West Midlands, but as we carry out work across the UK we are able to be flexible on location. Being based within 2hrs commute of Wolverhampton would be ideal.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate will possess a BSc and/or MSc in Ecology or related discipline and a Membership of a relevant professional body such as the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM).
Essential Skills
The following skills are considered essential to the role:
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- A broad understanding of the planning process and the part ecological assessment plays within it
- In-depth knowledge and experience of field surveys for most of the following; habitats, amphibians, bats, water vole, otter, reptiles, invasive plants and birds
- Knowledge and experience of the application of Biodiversity Net Gain
- An understanding of, and ability to talk clients and colleagues through protected species mitigation, including the requirements for licensing and non-licensed approaches
- Some experience of financial management either at a project or team level (further company-specific training will be provided in this respect)
- Experience in dealing with potential impacts on protected sites, including assent / consent and Habitat Regulations Assessment (HRA), (screening and Appropriate Assessment)
- Familiarity and experience of the process of Environmental Impact Assessment and contribution to EIA chapters
Desirable Skills
The following skills would be advantageous, but are not an essential requirement for the role:
- A protected species licence holder (great crested newt, bats, badger and/or water vole)
- Experience of line management
- Experience of stakeholder consultation, such as with Natural England, the Environment Agency and local planning authorities
- A willingness to be inventive and creative in developing ecological solutions to novel problems
The salary range for this role would be commensurate with experience. In addition, Arthian offers numerous benefits including:
- Subscription to a relevant professional body (generally expected to be CIEEM)
- External and internal training tailored around the individual
- 33 days annual leave (leave and public holiday combined) and the option to buy and sell holidays
- An Employee Assistance Programme
- A generous employee referral scheme
- Volunteering Day for a worthy cause
- Fully flexible parental leave options
- Cycle to work and electric vehicle schemes
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