Ecologist

Arup’s purpose, shared values and collaborative approach has set us apart for over 75 years, guiding how we shape a better world.

Arup is an independent firm of designers, planners, engineers, architects, consultants and technical specialists, working across every aspect of today’s-built environment.

The Midlands and West Nature team comprises 35 experienced ecologists and other nature consultants, within a wider multi-disciplinary Climate and Sustainability Services consulting team. We deliver an effective and professional service to a wide range of public and private clients, both in the UK and internationally. We have a strong pipeline of diverse and exciting projects including design and assessment of renewable energy, water industry and transport projects;

biodiversity strategy and policy development; due diligence and corporate biodiversity reporting. Due to the nature of our work, you will have the opportunity to develop a broad range of skills throughout your employment.

We are currently looking to recruit two Ecologists on a permanent contract into our Midlands and West Nature team, to be based either in Birmingham, Bristol or Cardiff.

Your day-to-day tasks could include:

• Authoring Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA), baseline species survey reports, Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA) and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Assessments.
• Supporting the preparation of Habitats Regulations Assessments, Environmental Statements and mitigation strategies for major development projects.
• Researching and preparing advice on biodiversity design, restoration/enhancement and integration of green infrastructure design and other nature-based solutions to secure biodiversity gain and strengthen climate change resilience measures.
• Planning, managing and undertaking field survey work, such as Phase 1 Habitat/UKHab surveys (including condition scoring for BNG assessments and invasive species) and protected species surveys (e.g. for great crested newt, bats and badger);
• Analysis and interpretation of ecological survey results using a range of software within sound analysis and GIS.
• Application of BNG and other metrics, natural capital / environmental net gain studies, site and corporate biodiversity strategies, Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD), International Finance Corporation’s Performance Standard 6, and nature-related policies; and managing small projects and having defined areas of responsibility on larger projects, including managing input of ecological subcontractors.

At Arup, you belong to an extraordinary collective – in which we encourage individuality to thrive. Our strength comes from how we respect, share, and connect our diverse experiences, perspectives and ideas.

You will have the opportunity do socially useful work that has meaning – to Arup, to your career, to our members and to the clients and communities we serve.

We are looking for people with the following skills –

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject, such as Ecology, Zoology, Geography or Biology (or equivalent). A postgraduate qualification in a relevant discipline, such as an MSc in Ecological Consultancy, is advantageous but not essential.
• Field skills (established or developing) in UK Hab/ Phase 1 habitat surveys, bat, dormouse, badger, riparian mammals, reptile and great crested newt surveys.
• Sound understanding of the main legislation and policy that typically drives the requirement for ecological survey, assessment and mitigation in relation to development. Experience of drafting ecological reports and undertaking metric calculations.
• Interest in professional development in wider nature consulting services such as natural capital / environmental net gain studies, site and corporate biodiversity strategies, policy development and environmental and social impact assessment for international projects.
• Experience of digital data management and analysis including working with ArcGIS.
• The position may entail travelling so a driving licence is important.

Not ready to apply just yet, or have some questions? Please email Karin Spies at . Please note, to ensure we…