CGO Ecology Ltd

Senior Ecologist (level 2 bat-licensed)

CGO Ecology Ltd - www.cgoecology.com

Starting: ASAP/spring 2021

Closing date: advertised until filled

Permanent, full-time or part-time

Salary: £30,000 to £40,000 (pro rata for p/t)

Apply to: Chris Gleed-Owen chris@cgoecology.com

Overview

CGO Ecology is a small, friendly consultancy that enjoys a good reputation for delivering a high-quality service, on time and in budget. We are recruiting a Senior Ecologist (level 2/CL18 bat-licensed), to be home-based in England. The position is full-time or part-time. The successful applicant will lead on licensed bat mitigation, manage projects across Britain, and lead surveys. They will have extensive bat survey and mitigation experience (named ecologist within the last three years). CGO Ecology has a small team of home-based staff, and a nationwide network of associates. Our clients range from central and local government, to infrastructure, minerals, education, construction, and renewable energy. We are not involved with HS2.

Role

The postholder will lead surveys, write bat survey reports, analyse data, coordinate other ecological surveys and mitigation, manage staff and subconsultants, and liaise with clients and authorities. They will manage and conduct bat surveys (PRAs of buildings, structures and trees, emergence/re-entry surveys, activity transects, static detectors) and bat mitigation (licence applications, supervision, provisions, monitoring). They will also conduct Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, and assist with other types of ecological survey, according to their skills and experience. They will be an excellent communicator, with an ability to work effectively with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders. Due to the nature of the work, the postholder must be physically able, and prepared to work flexible and unsociable hours. They will be a self-starter with a pragmatic outlook, who uses their initiative to solve problems. A driving licence and own vehicle is essential for driving to and from survey sites. As bat-handling is part of the job, they must have up-to-date rabies vaccination.

Essential experience, skills, and qualities

• Level 2 (CL18) Natural England bat survey licence, and named ecology on at least one bat mitigation licence within the last three years.
• Proficiency in Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey/PEA.
• Full driving licence, own vehicle.
• Excellent written and spoken English.
• Highly computer-literate, including MS Office.
• Good knowledge of wildlife legislation and planning process.
• Positive attitude, enthusiastic approach to work, strong work ethic.
• Ability to work independently and proactively.

Desirable experience, skills, and qualities

• At least one other species survey licence and/or specialist skill.
• Survey and mitigation experience in any of the following taxa and disciplines: badger, barn owl, breeding birds, hazel dormouse, GCN, invasive species, NVC, otter, reptiles, water vole, wintering birds, botany/NVC, white-clawed crayfish, other invertebrates.
• Full or Associate member of CIEEM, or eligibility for membership.
• Project management skills.
• EcIA experience.
• Familiar with UKHab and Defra BNG Metric 2.0.
• Proficiency in GIS, ideally including QGIS.

Salary/benefits

Salary £30,000 to £40,000 per annum (pro rata for part-time), depending on credentials and location. Working week 40 hours, with 32 days’ leave per year including statutory holidays, and flexi-time/TOIL (overtime banked and taken off as additional leave). We reimburse home-office costs, accommodation and subsistence expenses for fieldwork, and pay mileage at 45p for travel. We provide PPE and survey equipment, ongoing CPD/training, and enrolment in the UK Government’s NEST pension scheme at 3% employer contribution. We operate an Equal Opportunities policy.

Application

Please email Chris Gleed-Owen (chris@cgoecology.com), attaching a CV highlighting relevant skills, experience, and licences. Interview will be by informal Zoom meeting. The post will be advertised until filled, to start as soon as possible in spring 2021.

Closing Date: 03/05/2021  Location: Home-based in England