Overview

·        Remuneration: >£20k (pro-rata, negotiable dependent upon attributes) + benefits + expenses

·        Contract: min. 6 months

B.A.T. Ecological is an independent professional practice specialising in bat survey and consultancy work, particularly research, conservation, built heritage, tree, and advanced survey projects. By collaborating with a network of experienced practitioners across the UK B.A.T. Ecological also provides various other expert ecological services.

Due to our increasing workload, we are looking to recruit an Assistant Ecologist with a keen interest in bat survey and consultancy work for this spring and summer. There will be a range of interesting opportunities across the project portfolio for you to assist with, and to progress your skills and experience on, until at least October. These include work on advanced bat survey projects (trapping and radio-tracking), the Natural England Bats in Churches Project, tree climbing bat surveys, bat surveillance and mitigation work in respect of rural buildings, bat call analysis, and ecological report writing and European Protected Species licence applications.

You must have prior experience of working for an ecological consultancy and of the different approaches to surveying for bats, preferably having completed two seasons or more of professional bat work. A Natural England CL17 bat survey licence would be advantageous but is not essential.

Ideally, you would have an NPTC / CS38 tree climbing and aerial rescue ticket as well as a CSCS card and First Aid training for this role; if not, you should be willing to complete this training if offered the job.

In addition to the above you should have a basic knowledge / experience of surveying for, and the ecology of, other protected species (e.g., great crested newts, dormice, reptiles, badgers). Experience of habitat surveys (including Phase 1 and / or UKHab) and GIS would also be advantageous for this position, as would a Natural England survey licence other than one for bats or barn owl (CL29). An appreciation of the relevant legislation and planning processes pertaining to the above and the sector is important.

It would be preferable for this role if you are a qualifying member of CIEEM (or are eligible for membership) and have a degree relevant to ecology.

Certain personal qualities are essential for this position. We are looking for a highly motivated, proactive, organised, and conscientious person who demonstrates a passion and enthusiasm for ecology and carrying out work to the highest standard. Good humour and communication skills, and flexibility, are also critical and you must be able to work both independently and as part of a team (often including folk from other organisations) as required.

You will be home-based for desk work. Field work is predominantly in the Midlands but could potentially extend to anywhere in the UK. Note that you will be required to undertake regular nocturnal bat survey work in this role. You will need a full driving licence and access to your own car for business use (expenses paid).

In return for your attributes and commitment to B.A.T. Ecological you will receive an attractive salary of at least £20k pro-rata (negotiable dependent on your attributes), benefits, and expenses, as well as some rare and exciting work opportunities within the sector. You will also be offered in-house training towards your CL17 bat licence (or CL18 if applicable) as well as some external training of your choosing.

We would consider applications for part-time employment – minimum three days / nights a week.

We look forward to receiving your application. To apply, please email your two-page CV and a concise covering letter to info@bat-ecological.co.uk. The closing date for applications is Friday 9 April 2021 at midday. Interviews will be held in mid-April with a view to employment commencing late April.