Graduate Ecologists and Assistant Ecologists (FT/PT and contract-based)
BWCE Ltd. Chartered Environmental and Chartered Ecological Consultants.
Location: Derry City and Donegal.
Job type: Full Time, part-time, temporary, permanent, and contract/seasonal positions available. Closing date: 13/1/21
Our company
A rare opportunity has arisen for highly motivated graduate and assistant level ecologist(s) to join BW Consultant Engineer Ltd., a leading Environmental and Ecological Consultancy. We are a growing company and have created a reputation for excellence and high-quality professional standards that ensures the sustainable advance of infrastructure projects across the island of Ireland.
We provide clients with efficient, well-targeted, and technically competent services that benefit sustainable development projects and the conservation management of natural habitats, native species and ecosystem function.
Working throughout the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and the UK, we offer a wide range of services with strengths across terrestrial, aquatic and marine ecology. We operate within both, the public and private sectors, working on challenging large cap projects.
Specific duties to include
Undertaking Appropriate Assessment (AA), AA Screening, NIS/HRA, relevant to both ROI and UK legislation.
Completing Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAr/EIS).
Working with the planning team at the design stage of new projects to identify biodiversity constraints and survey requirements.
Assisting in River Restoration appraisal, design and supervision.
Carrying out PEAr and BREEAM ecology reports, field surveys, habitat mapping, QGIS analysis, and species-specific surveys for flora, badger, otter, birds, bats, mammals, invertebrates, etc., and electrofishing.
Feeding into baseline information for development sites using desk study and field survey data.
Development and design of biodiversity enhancement measures, mitigation measures and monitoring requirements for new development sites.
Compile technically competent and excellent quality ecological reports for clients that are well presented, robust in content and address the clients’ briefs. These will include, but not be limited to, habitat and species survey reports, Appropriate Assessment screening reports, Natura Impact Statements, Environmental Statement Chapters and monitoring reports.
Undertake ECoW and EnvCoW functions, with support and guidance from the company’s Principal and Senior Ecologists.
Collate, store and analyse ecological data.
Provide accurate and well-researched advice and guidance to clients as and when required, with support from the Chartered Ecologist and Chartered Environmentalist within the company and the wider professional community, in accordance with the relevant legislation and statutory guidance.
Ensure that all activities are undertaken in accordance with the company’s health and safety policy and procedures and, in particular, that risk assessment(s) are completed appropriately and fully.
Manage personal time and project delivery in an organised and proactive manner to ensure the smooth delivery of projects.
Work as a team member and share expertise, knowledge and learning with colleagues and internships.
Supporting the Senior & Project Ecologist(s) in the delivery of a wide range of projects.
Assisting with planning and resourcing of ecological surveys and species identification.
Contributing to providing sound ecological advice to clients within your areas of expertise.
Assisting with producing meticulous and accurate reports for clients on time and within budget.
Assisting with data requests and reporting on data searches.
Assisting with data entry and digital mapping.
Supporting senior staff in the management and development of client relationships.
Assisting with business development, including generating repeat business.
Minimum qualifications and skill
A relevant degree (PhD/MSc/MRes/BSc/BA); minimum level 8 in ecology and/or environmental related field (i.e. Biology, Zoology, Botany, Freshwater ecology, Hydrology, Hydromorphology, Ornithology, Environmental, Forestry, etc.).
In-depth knowledge and understanding of the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011.
Membership of a relevant professional institute. i.e. CIEEM.
Highly competent in the use of GIS (QGIS).
Full driving license.
A robust understanding of nationally recognised best practice survey and evaluation guidelines for the full range of species and habitats.
Experience in undertaking ECoW and EnvCoW.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Experience of habitat and protected species surveys, and ecological impact assessment.
Ability and willingness to travel throughout Ireland, NI and the UK (as required) for work, which frequently involves unsociable hours at times (including overnight stays), where required.
Ability to manage projects, including financial management to ensure project profitability.
Willing to attend conferences and training events.
Capable at working well as part of a small and growing team
Fluent in undertaking Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) and extended phase 1 habitat surveys.
Highly adaptable, flexible and has a “can do” attitude, including the ability to work flexible hours and nocturnal surveys.
Both roles suit highly motivated persons with strong time management skills.
A good level of physical ability to undertake strenuous survey work in remote locations.
Experience in using Kaleidoscope Pro analysis software.
We are offering
Salary for each role is competitive, depending on competence, experience and qualifications.
Carrying out surveying duties in some of the most prestigious ecological sites in Ireland and the UK.
Shared Access to Company Vehicles.
Training and career mentoring to support your continued development.
Potential to relocate to an affordable area with a high quality of living.
The chance to work with a dedicated and dynamic team.
Strong ties with local universities and public bodies.
Well-equipped offices in a highly scenic location, with nearby beaches (several), salmon fishing rivers, golf courses, mountain ranges, surfing locations, local airport, leisure facilities and a vibrant social scene.
Starting Salary range:
Highly competitive; commensurate on skills and experience.
How to Apply
Please send your CV, together with a cover letter (max. 2 side A4) explaining why you are right for the relevant role, highlighting relevant experience and training to date (including field survey work), what you can add to our company and when you will be available to start to: admin@bwconsultantengineer.com
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an initial interview by video call (zoom or skype). Email: admin@bwconsultantengineer.com