Ecologist

Ocean to Earth is delighted to be supporting a respected ecological consultancy in the search for an Ecologist to join their growing team based in Kent.

This consultancy provides ecological planning advice and specialist survey expertise across the South East of England, supporting projects from early feasibility through to planning and delivery. Their work helps clients design developments that not only meet planning requirements but also create high-quality, biodiverse environments that enhance landscapes and communities.

You will be joining a highly qualified and experienced team of ecologists who take pride in delivering practical, thoughtful ecological advice tailored to each project’s objectives. The team works with a diverse range of clients including local authorities, developers, homeowners, renewable energy providers, schools, housebuilders, architects and planners, contributing to projects that balance development with meaningful biodiversity outcomes.

The role would suit an ecologist with around three years’ industry experience who is keen to develop their technical skills while contributing to a wide variety of ecological projects.

About the role

You will support and lead a range of ecological work including habitat and protected species surveys, ecological assessments, and the production of professional ecological reports and plans using QGIS. Projects will span the full ecological planning process, from early feasibility assessments through to supporting planning applications and delivering biodiversity enhancements on site.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Undertaking a range of ecological field surveys and habitat assessments

• Producing clear and professional ecological reports and mapping using QGIS

• Supporting Ecological Assessments, Ecological Impact Assessments and Habitat Regulations Assessments

• Contributing to Biodiversity Net Gain assessments

• Supporting or compiling Protected Species Licence applications

• Liaising with clients and assisting with project delivery

The consultancy undertakes a wide range of ecological work including Phase 1 Habitat Surveys, UK Habitat Classification Surveys, Biodiversity Net Gain assessments, River Corridor Surveys and National Vegetation Classification surveys, alongside protected species surveys for bats, birds, dormice, great crested newts, beavers, badgers, water voles and reptiles.

All ecological reports are prepared in accordance with recognised guidance including BS42020 Biodiversity and CIEEM best practice, ensuring robust ecological mitigation, compensation and enhancement strategies are delivered for each project.

About you

The successful candidate will have:

• A graduate or postgraduate degree in ecology or a related discipline

• Around three years’ experience within the ecological consultancy sector

• Membership of CIEEM

• One or more protected species licences

• Experience undertaking ecological field surveys and producing professional reports

• Experience using QGIS for mapping and ecological plans

Ideally, you will also have experience with Protected Species Licence applications, Biodiversity Net Gain assessments, and managing projects including client liaison.

The consultancy maintains SMAS Worksafe Health and Safety accreditation, and all staff hold relevant CSCS cards and are members of CIEEM, reflecting their commitment to professional standards and safe working practices.

This role offers the opportunity to work on a diverse portfolio of projects while developing your career within a collaborative and supportive ecological team dedicated to delivering high-quality ecological outcomes across the region.