Assistant Ecologist

We are looking for an Assistant Ecologist to undertake both survey work and site-based work from our Exeter office. Survey work will mostly comprise protected species surveys (newts, bats etc), newt and reptile translocation work, and potentially habitat creation works. Whilst predominantly field based, there will also be opportunity to assist in office-based work, including logging and mapping field data, with the data you collect being used to inform ecological impact assessments and mitigation measures across a range of projects.

A ‘can do’ enthusiastic and motivated attitude is essential, as is a keen interest in ecology and conservation, as work can be in remote locations, sometimes during poor weather and regularly out of normal hours. Survey work will often require working away from home, including daytime and night and/or early morning work. The ability to communicate well and work effectively as part of a team is vital and you’ll be organised and able to manage your time well to ensure surveys run smoothly.

You may already have experience of undertaking UK habitat and/or protected species surveys, a good understanding of British native species, wildlife legislation and planning policy relating to ecology. Reliable and accurate recording of field data on both paper and digital devices to a consistent and high standard is necessary, and good written skills will be an advantage. You may also have knowledge of software such as QGIS.

You are have a Degree level or equivalent academic qualification in Ecology or related field and maybe a member of CIEEM (from graduate to full membership).

A full driving licence and access to a vehicle is necessary and you must have, or be prepared to add, Business Use to your car insurance policy. Existing experience and a current CSCS card is desirable for site-based work, but not essential.

Why FPCR?

FPCR Environment and Design Ltd is one of the UK’s leading integrated design practices working extensively throughout the UK. Over the last 60 years the practice has developed a valuable mix of multi-disciplinary expertise in masterplanning, environmental assessment, urban design, landscape, ecology, architecture, arboriculture and green infrastructure. Working together, we have implemented many award-winning schemes in environmentally sensitive locations.

At the start of 2021 FPCR became an Employee-Owned business. Our people and culture are vital to the service we provide, and we feel this is the best way forward for the future of the practice. Employee Ownership will enable the whole team to share in the future growth and success of the business, whilst the practice can remain responsive, independent, and adaptable.

Our ecology team is led by four senior directors who each joined the company in junior positions and are committed to providing the same supportive and fostering environment that is at the heart of our practice. Our team of over 100 ecologists work out of five offices across the UK.

Could you be one of the experienced, talented and energetic professionals helping to continue the development of our ecology department, responding to our clients and keeping FPCR moving forwards whilst responding to new challenges in ecological practice?

What you can expect in return:

Our employees really are our greatest asset, representing a wide range of skills and experience from across the field of UK ecology. We are proud to offer our staff at all levels the opportunity to pursue their individual interests as this helps us to facilitate shared learning across our practice.

We have an open and continual dialogue with our staff about their development needs and should any staff member have a particular interest in a certain subject or wish to develop a particular skill, the directors are happy to support them.

We are offering a competitive salary (dependent on experience and skills) with the opportunity for annual bonuses, enrolment on our pension scheme and 25 days holiday and a holiday purchase system. Everyone is enrolled in a BUPA health and wellbeing cashback scheme.

FPCR offers many workplace benefits, including activity and social events. FPCR is an equal opportunities employer.

If you feel you are the right candidate, or feel you can offer FPCR’s ecology team other relevant experience and skills, please submit your CV along with a covering letter, together with any supporting documentation that you feel may be of interest.

Candidates must have the right to work in the UK.