Overview

Ecological Appraisals BNG & PEA
Location: Remote
Type: Full-time/Part-time basis
Closing Date: 22/10/2024

Job Overview
We are looking for a skilled and passionate Ecologist to join our team on a full-time/Part-time basis. The primary focus of the role will be to conduct Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA), ensuring projects meet legislative and policy requirements. You will work with a wide range of clients, including developers, planners, and local authorities, to assess and mitigate the ecological impacts of development projects while ensuring sustainable outcomes.

Key Responsibilities
Conduct Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA):
Assess the ecological value of development sites, including habitats and species, identifying potential ecological impacts and opportunities for enhancement.
Deliver Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Assessments:
Carry out detailed BNG assessments to meet the requirements of the Environment Act 2021, quantifying habitat losses and gains, and preparing recommendations for habitat creation and enhancement.
Field Surveys:
Perform site visits and ecological surveys, including habitat surveys, protected species surveys (e.g., bats, great crested newts, badgers), and other relevant assessments.
Ecological Reporting:
Prepare high-quality ecological reports, including PEAs, BNG assessments, Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), and Biodiversity Management Plans.
GIS Mapping:
Use GIS software to produce habitat maps, visual representations of survey data, and BNG calculations.
Client Liaison:
Collaborate closely with clients, planners, local authorities, and other stakeholders to deliver projects on time and in line with legal and planning requirements.
Regulatory Compliance:
Ensure all ecological work complies with relevant UK legislation, planning policies, and best practice guidelines, including the requirements of Biodiversity Net Gain.
Mitigation and Enhancement Advice:
Provide practical solutions for avoiding, mitigating, or compensating for biodiversity impacts, with a focus on achieving positive outcomes for wildlife and habitats.
Stakeholder Engagement:
Attend meetings with clients and stakeholders to provide advice on ecology-related planning conditions and consents, ensuring a balance between development needs and ecological preservation.

Required Qualifications and Experience
Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field.
Proven experience in delivering Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA) and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments.
Familiarity with the Environment Act 2021 and its requirements around BNG.
Strong working knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and protected species regulations.
Proficiency in GIS for habitat mapping and data analysis.
Excellent report-writing skills, with experience in preparing ecological assessments and recommendations for clients and planning authorities.
Ability to conduct a variety of ecological surveys, including those for protected species such as bats, birds, and reptiles.
Full UK driving license and willingness to travel to site locations as needed.

Desired Skills and Attributes
Membership with CIEEM (Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management) or working towards it.
Experience in delivering Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA) and Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRA).
Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Strong communication skills for engaging with clients, stakeholders, and team members.
Attention to detail and excellent organizational skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Benefits
Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
Flexible working options, including hybrid or remote work where applicable.
Professional development opportunities and support for obtaining professional accreditations (e.g., CIEEM).
Mileage reimbursement for site visits.
Pension scheme, paid holidays, and additional benefits.