The Atkins ecology team are one of the most respected in the UK, with a reputation for technical excellence, innovation, award winning and actively shaping the future of the ecology industry. We are now seeking a new Ecologist / Senior Ecologist / Principal Ecologist to join our well-established and growing team of 14 ecologists in Birmingham.
As one of the world’s leading engineering, environmental and design consultancies, Atkins offers opportunities for talented ecologists to work on a wide variety of projects alongside in-house national experts for the benefit of Biodiversity and our clients.
The collaborative relationship between our ecology team and our engineering, planning and design colleagues provides excellent opportunities for ecologists to develop both their technical and commercial skills. Here at Atkins, we prioritise the learning and development of our team members, with a unique in-house Academy training and development programme and a mentorship scheme to support you in your career development.
Our team of 70 ecologists based in offices around the UK is committed to providing specialist ecological advice in connection with infrastructure, development and other projects. You can expect to manage and lead protected species surveys, licensing and mitigation, habitat assessment, creation, restoration, management and monitoring, biodiversity offsetting, green infrastructure and Environmental Impact Assessments.
Still unsure? See what our Ecologists have to say about working at Atkins: https://careers.atkinsglobal.com/ecology-careers
Responsibilities
For this position, the majority of the work is likely to be regionally based, but there will be opportunities for technical collaboration with our ecologists throughout the UK.
You will be supported in developing your career through formal training and through working alongside national experts.
You will:
• provide technical support and leadership to the Birmingham ecology team and beyond;
• mentor and support the development of junior ecologists;
• manage and lead the ecological input to a varied range of projects across different sectors;
• lead field surveys for a range of habitats and species;
• plan and co-ordinate ecological mitigation works;
• provide ecological advice to clients and contractors;
• undertake reporting of a range of ecological deliverables;
• liaise with stakeholders (e.g. Natural England);
• work within deadlines and budgets;
• prepare bids and help win work for the team;
• manage your own time and workload in collaboration with other team members;
• continue to develop your technical skills, meeting CPD requirements; and
• work effectively as part of a team with ecologists and other professionals (environmental scientists, engineers, planners) throughout Atkins to provide a consistent and integrated service to clients.
If you think you are the right person to join our team and can demonstrate the qualifications experience criteria below, then please do apply.
Requirements
Qualifications
• A degree in a relevant discipline and preferably an MSc;
• Full membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM); ideally Chartered Ecologist or Chartered Environmentalist status (as a minimum working towards chartership).
Essential Criteria
• A passion for biodiversity and ecology;
• Experience as a Senior / Principal Ecologist in a similar (i.e. consultancy) role;
• A good understanding of the role of consultants within the commercial sector;
• Accomplished at Phase 1 Habitat Surveys and a range of protected species surveys, ideally with an area of specialism;
• Experience in writing a range of high-quality technical reports and proposals (experience of checking technical reports and proposals would be a distinct advantage);
• Experience of undertaking Ecological Impact Assessment, protected species development licence applications and implementation of mitigation on site;
• Experience of project co-ordination, production of bids and management of budgets;
• Botanical skills and/or a survey licence for one or more protected species;
• Demonstrable integrity and commitment;
• Demonstrable collaborative and pro-active approach to work with ecology team members, clients and other professionals;
• Good planning and organisational skills, including taking responsibility for managing your time;
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written;
• Proficiency in standard IT applications, including Word, Excel and email; and,
• An understanding of the importance of health and safety risk management.
Training
Atkins develops individuals through a portfolio of training and development activities designed to help you make the best of your abilities and talents. These are reviewed with individuals through an annual appraisal process. We actively support staff in achieving corporate membership of relevant institutions.
Rewards and Benefits
Please refer to our website for details of our full benefits package. Click here
This role may require security clearance and offers of employment will be dependent on obtaining the relevant level of clearance. If this is necessary it will be discussed with you at interview.
If applying to this role please do not make reference to (in conversation) or include in your application or CV, details of any current or previously held security clearance
