Habitat and Biodiversity Net Gain Specialist (Ecologist - Senior)
Job Description
FPCR have been at the forefront of the development of BNG since 2012, having been heavily involved in the development of version 2.0, 3.0 and 4.0 metrics, led a consortium to develop the small sites metric, and completed a contract to design and build the BNG GIS templates.
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Due to the evolving legislative and policy framework in the UK, we have seen an increased volume of project-related BNG work from our existing client base in addition to involvement in prospective biodiversity banking and offsetting schemes.
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We are therefore seeking to grow our team capability in this area, from field survey assessment and GIS mapping, metric population, habitat creation advice, as well as creation of Habitat Management and Monitoring Plans. Whilst it is the intention for these to be the core responsibilities of the job role, there will also be opportunities for involvement in the more general ecological field survey work, reporting and project management undertaken by the wider York ecology team.
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What will you be doing?
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- Undertaking fieldwork, including UKHab habitat surveys, condition assessments and monitoring utilising Qfield (full training can be provided)\n
- GIS mapping using QGIS \n
- Biodiversity net gain assessments, including completion of biodiversity metrics as well as the design and delivery of net gain solutions\n
- Report writing, including BNG feasibility assessments, BNG reports, Preliminary Ecological Appraisals and habitat sections of EcIAs. \n
- Preparation of Habitat Management and Monitoring Plans, Biodiversity Gain Plans, and other associated documents \n
- Liaison with various stakeholders including developers, local authorities, landowners, environmental NGO’s\n
- Land management advice, habitat restoration advice, overseeing habitat creation projects\n
- Development and input into projects as opportunities arise\n
- Associated consultancy services in support of the practice’s core business\n
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Other opportunities
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In addition to the core areas of the role, there will be opportunities to experience and specialise in other fields such as:
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- Ecological Impact Assessments \n
- Work on Habitat Bank creation projects \n
- Develop skills in specialisms such as Habitat Regulation Assessments\n
- Development of new software or survey techniques \n
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What we are looking for
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Required skills and experience include:
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- Degree level or equivalent academic qualification in Ecology or related field\n
- Working knowledge of BNG principles and processes\n
- Experience in the use of the Statutory DEFRA metric and condition assessments\n
- GIS use (preferably QGIS or aptitude to learn)\n
- Botanical survey experience – FISC 3+ equivalent botanical expertise across a range of habitat types\n
- Proficient in survey using UKHab classification and/or NVC classification\n
- Experience in the preparation of habitat management plans across a range of habitats\n
- A full, clean UK driving licence and access to a vehicle\n
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Desirable skills of interest include:
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- Membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM), eligibility for membership or other similar\n
- Experience of Phase 2 protected species survey (reptiles, GCN, bats, riparian mammals, badgers etc.)\n
- Knowledge of the planning system
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Why FPCR?
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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.
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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 enables the whole team to share in the future growth and success of the business, whilst the practice can remain responsive, independent, and adaptable.
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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.
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Our team of over 120 ecologists work out of six offices across the UK.
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Could you be one of the experienced, talented and energetic professionals helping to continue the development of the team, responding to our clients and keeping FPCR moving forwards whilst responding to new challenges in ecological practice? The position provides the right candidate with an ideal opportunity to be a part of a motivated team offering technical advice to a diverse range of clients covering projects across all aspects of ecology.
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What you can expect in return:
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Salary: Ecologist £26-30.5K; Senior Ecologist £32-£36K dependent on experience
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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 the teams frequently have a range of volunteering and social activities going on.
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FPCR is an equal opportunity employer committed to and within the workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their or .
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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.
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Candidates must have the right to work in the UK.