Assistant Ecologist

Job Description

What if you could shape a career as unique as you? At WSP, you can always find opportunities to grow and do what matters to you. Make the most of our global reach to discover new challenges and chances to work with diverse, talented individuals who will help you expand your horizons.

As an Assistant Ecologist you will join our growing Nature Services Team in Belfast and work on some engaging projects within a supportive and varied team of technical experts.

We work closely with our sister office in Naas and while most of our work is based in Ireland, the Ireland and Scotland Nature Services Teams collaborate regularly to deliver a wide range of projects, including nationally significant infrastructure projects, renewable energy projects, utility upgrades and large Strategic Infrastructure Development (SID) projects across the regions.

We collaborate with a range of interrelated disciplines including Biodiversity Net Gain and Natural Capital specialists, arboriculturists, landscape architects, hydrologists, environmental scientists and geotechnical specialists.

We are passionate about creating a diverse and inclusive team. We invite you to benefit from our wide range of flexible working arrangements to find a working pattern that suits you so that you are at your best.

• Assisting with and undertaking ecology surveys including extended Phase 1 habitat/UKHab surveys and protected species surveys.
• Assisting with and preparing tenders for a range of schemes, and suites of habitat, botanical and protected species surveys.
• Input into a range of ecological deliverables including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Ecological Management Plans, Protected Species Reports, European Protected Species licence applications, Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs), Biodiversity chapters of EIAs and Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRA).

• An appropriate academic qualification in Ecology or a related discipline.
• Qualifying Member status with CIEEM (or are eligible for this).
• Experience in extended Phase 1 habitat/UKHab surveys along with knowledge and experience in protected species surveys, working towards protected species licences.
• Some demonstrable experience in ecological survey, ideally in a consultancy environment but other experience will be considered, including voluntary work.
• An enthusiastic, energetic outlook and willingness to learn.
• An appreciation of relevant wildlife legislation and ecological survey methodologies.
• A full UK valid driving licence.
• Self‑confidence and motivation, with good communication skills and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Experience in ecological consultancy having started to develop core field and reporting skills.

Don’t quite meet all the criteria? Apply, and we can see how your experience aligns to this role and other opportunities within the team.

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all. Work on landmark projects around the world and embrace opportunities to make an even bigger impact in the communities you care about. What if you could do the best work of your life and create a legacy for yourself?

With us, you can. Apply today.