AgRecruit is partnering with Biofarm to appoint an Ecologist in London, UK. Please contact Sam Clayton directly at AgRecruit for any enquiries at sam.clayton@agrecruit-ltd.com
Company Overview:
Biofarm is an innovative organisation disrupting the Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) industry through dynamic solutions and pioneering strategies. With a vision for a sustainable future and a commitment to enhancing biodiversity conservation efforts, Biofarm is dedicated to revolutionising the way ecological impacts are managed and mitigated in development projects across England.
Job Overview:
We are seeking a highly experienced and knowledgeable Senior Ecologist to join our team and to help support our clients. The successful candidate will play a key role in establishing habitat banks and managing and overseeing planning projects, with a particular focus on biodiversity conservation and enhancement. This position requires demonstrable field experience and an understanding of biodiversity legislation, the Statutory Metric, policies, and best practices, as well as the ability to liaise with government bodies such as DEFRA, Natural England, and Local Planning Authorities.
We’re a highly entrepreneurial and fast-paced business, so this role will suit someone who is able to take the initiative and help to drive us forwards at this exciting time of growth.
Key Responsibilities:
* Providing a high level of technical expertise and support including the preparation and submission of habitat surveys and protected species assessments for BNG plans
* Survey work to include protected species surveying (GCN, Dormice, reptiles, bats).
* Provide expert advice and guidance on biodiversity conservation and enhancement measures to internal teams, clients, and stakeholders.
* Working as part of the in-house ecology team to develop and implement Biodiversity Net Gain strategies and action plans in accordance with relevant legislation, metrics, policies, and guidelines.
* Liaise with government bodies, including DEFRA and Natural England, to ensure compliance with biodiversity regulations and secure necessary permits or approvals.
* Prepare and present reports including Habitat Management and Monitoring Plans and Biodiversity Gain Plans, presentations, and proposals to clients, regulatory bodies, and community groups as required.
Qualifications and Experience:
* Bachelor's or Master's degree in Ecology, or a related field.
* CIEEM Accreditation.
* Demonstrable field experience in Ecology.
* Possession of two or more European Protected Species (EPS) survey licences.
* Strong botanical knowledge with the ability to do standardised and replicable quadrat and transect surveys, bat activity, handling, roost surveys.
* Knowledge of biodiversity legislation, policies, and guidelines, including relevant national and local planning policies.
* Demonstrable experience of undertaking preliminary ecological appraisals(i.e. Phase 1 habitat surveys and protected species assessments).
* Experience in preparing and implementing Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) plans.
* Strong understanding of ecological principles and methodologies, including habitat assessment, species surveys, and ecological impact assessment.
* Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information to diverse audiences effectively.
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a progressive, pragmatic approach and the ability to assess and mitigate biodiversity impacts within the planning context.
* Proficiency in relevant software and tools used in planning and biodiversity assessment, such as the Statutory Metric, GIS, ecological modelling software, and Microsoft Office Suite.