Ecologist to Senior Ecologist

Are you an experienced ecologist looking for the next step up in your career? Are you looking to increase your exposure to complex and rewarding projects? Do you want to join an established consultancy practice who pride themselves in offering a great place to work? If so, we would love to hear from you.

Since opening FPCR s only city-based office in June 2022, our ecology team in Sheffield has continued to grow and thrive, taking on a range of projects in the local and wider area. Now fully in the swing of a busy survey season, we re looking for an experienced and enthusiastic Ecologist or Senior Ecologist to join us.

You will play a pivotal role in leading and delivering high-quality ecological assessments, surveys, and mitigation strategies, collaborating with our talented team of ecologists, landscape architects, and environmental planners. Your responsibilities will include:

1. Conducting and leading on ecological surveys, including protected species surveys, habitat assessments, and biodiversity audits.
2. Undertaking environmental impact assessments and preparing ecological reports.
3. Designing and implementing appropriate mitigation measures to enhance biodiversity and protect ecological habitats.
4. Providing expert advice on ecological matters to clients, stakeholders, and project teams.
5. Mentoring and supporting junior ecologists, sharing your knowledge and expertise to foster their professional development.
6. Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, contractors, and regulatory bodies.

About you

1. At least a degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field.
2. Several years experience in ecological consultancy, with a strong focus on conducting surveys, assessments, and preparing a range of ecological reports.
3. Sound knowledge of UK ecology legislation, guidelines, and best practice.
4. A proven track record in managing and delivering ecological projects, meeting deadlines, with at least 3 years of experience in project management.
5. Strong communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
6. Experience of advising clients on Biodiversity Net Gain including production of Biodiversity Impact Assessments (BIA) and use of the DEFRA metric.
7. A particular interest or skill in ornithology or protected species, including licence holders, would be advantageous.
8. Membership or eligibility for membership with a relevant professional body (e.g., CIEEM).
9. A full UK driving licence and access to vehicle.

Why FPCR?

Established in 1957, 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. Today our team of over 100 ecologists is led by four senior directors who joined the company as juniors, working out of five offices across the UK with the Sheffield team led by a regional director who also joined the company in a junior position and is committed to providing the same supportive and fostering environment that is at the heart of our practice.

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 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 are offering a competitive salary with the opportunity for annual bonuses, enrolment on our pension scheme and 25 days holiday, compressed working week and a holiday purchase system. Everyone is enrolled in a BUPA health and wellbeing cashback scheme. Staff well-being is very important to us, and along with the wider practice, the Sheffield team frequently have a range of volunteering and social activities going on.

FPCR is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion within the workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their race or gender.

To Apply

If you meet 80% or more of what we re looking for, please still apply. We understand not everyone will meet all the requirements, but you might have other skills we didn t know we need. Your attitude and motivation are as important as your technical skills.

To apply please submit a cover letter and CV.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity.