A consultant ecologist’s role is to balance the objectives of developers with the needs of the environment.  SWT Ecology Services is an advocate for protecting key environmental assets whilst at the same time being a facilitator of development that improves the quality of life for local communities.  SWT Ecology Services manages the challenge of reconciling the two and sees each project as an opportunity to achieve the best possible outcome for both parties. 

The role

As part of a team of expert ecologists, you will undertake ecological surveys and prepare high quality technical reports, as directed by the Managing Director, or Project Manager.  Manage small-scale, simple projects and liaise with clients where required.  Provide high quality ecological surveys, reports and advice to internal and external stakeholders and clients; represent SWT externally and help in delivering the Trust’s mission.

This is a permanent full time role but part-time options will also be considered. 

We operate a flexi policy and aim to provide a good work/life balance whilst having an interesting and challenging working environment. 

The salary offered to successful applicants will be agreed based on qualifications and experience and will form part of a benefits package including: above minimum pension contributions, life assurance of 4 x salary, employee support scheme, 22 days holiday plus Bank Holidays, flexible working policy.

Your skills

• At least three years of relevant experience within the environmental sector;
• Experience of conducting protected species surveys and advising on mitigation;
• Protected species and habitat surveys;
• Good understanding of Surrey and south east England ecology;
• Demonstrable experience in managing projects throughout the project management life-cycle;
• You must have a good knowledge of legislation and planning policy.

You must be ready to travel, work in the field and work flexible hours and ideally have a CSCS card.  Given the role involves travelling around the county, you will need to have a valid UK driver’s licence and access to your own transport. 

SWT Ecology Services

SWT Ecology Services has a dynamic and supportive team of experienced ecologists.  We are a fully owned subsidiary of Surrey Wildlife Trust.  This means that our profits are returned to SWT on an annual basis, thus supporting SWT’s mission to create a living landscape across the county. 

Although working for SWT Ecology Services you will have numerous opportunities to get involved with SWT’s activities.  We are also active across the Wildlife Trust Consultancies network and attend quarterly webinars on current ecological trends; in addition to attending an annual conference where you can network with ecologists throughout the country.

Our office is in Pirbright, although remote working will be possible. 

If this is the role for you:

We are committed to having an inclusive and diverse workplace and encourage applications from backgrounds which may be underrepresented in our sector, including people from minority ethnic backgrounds and people with disabilities. 

We are committed to offering an interview to all candidates that meet the essential criteria for the post.  Please let us know if you require any adjustment to make our recruitment process more accessible.

If you fulfil the role criteria, please send a completed application form available below and send to Gabbie Graham, MD of SWT Ecology Services swtes.recruitment@surreywt.org.uk.  Please include the word Ecologist in the title of your email.

The deadline for applications is 5pm Friday 26^th April 2025.  Initial interviews will be held remotely via Microsoft Teams shortly after applications are received then formally, in person, week commencing 6^th May 2025.