Your new companyMy client's people design, maintain and transform the nation's strategic assets and deliver the critical services the country relies on every day. They are committed to doing this sustainably and by working in partnership with the communities they serve, so people and the planet are protected. When you join them, they can offer flexibility, career development, a choice of benefits and support that help you through all life's ups and downs. You have freedom to perform because they know if nothing holds you back, together, you can be exceptional. Whether it's working on the biggest bridge in the country, learning to get to grips with the latest technology, or just working with a great group of people every day, you'll find what gets you out of bed in the morning.Your new roleDue to increased workload my client is looking to recruit a Consultant/Senior/Principal Ecologist. The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering the extensive protected species survey requirements, drafting Ecological Impact Assessments and protected species licence applications. Being an experienced ecologist, you'll have the chance to focus on the parts of your role you most enjoy. Whether it's further training to broaden your skills, working more closely with your clients to build relationships, or having the opportunity to develop leadership capabilities, our environment is one of collaboration and support where the direction of your career is led by you.Responsibilities:

Undertake a wide range of ecological design, surveys and reporting that is fully compliant with all relevant legislation, technical standards and guidance.Implement effective and innovative solutions to meet technical standards and project requirements.Prepare and check ecological requirements and manage the production of reports for issue to the client.Assist in the preparation of expressions of interest and tenders, including cost estimates with a focus on best value for clients.Liaise with clients, maintaining and developing strong relationships, and ensure their requirements are effectively communicated to the team.Respond to queries from and liaise with third parties as required.Advise on procedural and technical requirements as necessary.Ensure compliance with relevant health, safety and environmental legislation and company policy.Project administration reporting to Line Management including monitoring programme delivery, resources and budgets.Ensure compliance with the Integrated Management System and assist in its operation and development.Supporting the Technical Director of Ecology and Lead Ecologist, and local E&S Regional Manager. What you'll need to succeed

A strong undergraduate degree in Ecology, Zoology, Botany, Biology, Environmental Science (with a strong ecology focus) or similar/equivalentDemonstrable post–graduate experience preferably in a professional ecological consultancy role encompassing large rail/infrastructure projectsFull Membership of CIEEM or equivalent with expertise in protected species surveysHold at least one European protected species survey license (beneficial)EPS Mitigation licence application experience and Protected species licence holder or working towards same (notable species: bats & dormice)Comprehensive knowledge of relevant wildlife legislation and ecological survey methodologies.Experience in Invasive species survey and management.Excellent reporting writing skills with experience in drafting & critically reviewing ecological reports; including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Ecological Impact Assessments and Method Statements.Experience of working closely with regulatory authorities and various stakeholders.Experience of managing a team of ecological consultants and/or third–party contractors.Strong project management skills with the ability to plan and deliver works in line with budgets and programme deadlines.Strong written and verbal communication skills and the aptitude to rationally explain, explore and discuss ecological issues and capture feedback.Health and Safety awareness, especially safe working practices and risk assessment related to ecology fieldwork.Valid driving licence. What you'll get in returnStandard benefits

Maternity/paternity packagesPension planPersonal and professional counsellingRetail discounts Additional benefits

Additional annual leaveChildcare assistanceShare incentive planGym membershipsDental insuranceTravel insuranceHealth care cash planAnnual medicalCritical illness insuranceCycle to work schemePersonal accident insurancePrivate medical insurance What you need to do nowIf you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up–to–date copy of your CV, or call me now.If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact me for a confidential discussion on your career.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk