Assistant Ecologist

PBA Applied Ecology was established in 2010 and has grown with strong values to become one of
the UK’s most respected specialist ecology practices. Working from our modern base in
Giggleswick at the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, we offer a wide range of services
with particular strengths across terrestrial and aquatic ecology.

We are looking for an assistant ecologist to join our team of high-achieving professionals,
providing clients with a wide range of ecological and environmental services. Our projects are
interesting, technically challenging and we excel in offering innovative solutions to our
clients that are evidence-based, practical and sustainable. Much of our work is in protected
rural areas and most project locations do not require overnight stays.

The traditional market town of Settle is just a mile away, a friendly, community driven town,
offering all the services required to live a varied and balanced lifestyle. This is also a
great area for a range of sports and outdoor pursuits with the classic karst landscapes of the
Yorkshire Dales on the doorstep.

The Role

As an Assistant Ecologist, you will be carrying out ecological surveys and providing ecological
and environmental support to a wide range of conservation and development projects. You will
have opportunities to work on both terrestrial and aquatic projects, including PEAs,
electrofishing surveys, breeding and winter bird surveys, habitat management plans and delivery
of habitat improvements.

This is a permanent full-time position, with the opportunity for further progression within the
business. We are offering an attractive starting salary, full training and support, and a
brilliant working environment.

The successful candidate will work with our friendly team of ecologists, contributing valued
support to this rapidly growing business, both in the office and the field, undertaking clearly
defined tasks, initially under supervision.

It is expected that you will live within a reasonable commuting distance of our offices. Good
quality, reasonably priced, company owned accommodation may be available for rent in Settle.

Your work will include

• Supporting Senior & Project Ecologists in the delivery of a wide range of projects.
• Assisting with planning and resourcing of ecological surveys and species identification.
• Assisting with data requests, and reporting on data searches.
• Assisting with data entry and digital mapping.
• Assisting with producing meticulous and accurate reports for clients.
• Contributing to providing sound ecological advice to clients within your areas of
  expertise.
• Supporting senior staff in the management and development of client relationships.
• Assisting with business development, including generating repeat business.

What we are looking for

• A BSc 2(i) in a natural sciences subject and/or a MSc in a relevant discipline.
• A demonstrable interest in natural science, ecology and the UK natural environment.
• Engaged, motivated, enthusiastic and willing to follow instruction and learn.
• Adaptable with a “can do” attitude.
• Confidence in written and verbal communication, with good report writing ability.
• Exceptional planning and organisational skills for your own time and project work.
• Proficiency in standard IT and communication applications is essential, and capabilities in
  statistical and mapping software are desirable, but can be trained ‘on the job’.
• A good level of physical fitness to undertake varied and ‘all-weather’ work in remote
  locations. The ability to swim confidently is desirable.
• Full driving licence.

What we offer

• A career-enhancing role within a supportive and well-resourced practice.
• Well-equipped modern offices in a beautiful rural location.
• Social working environment, with a supportive, inclusive team.
• Competitive salary, depending on competence, experience and qualifications.
• Flexible working times, TOIL (time off in lieu) system, with additional payments for ‘out
  of hours’ working.
• Additional days holiday with length of service.
• Company pension scheme.
• Cycle-to-work scheme.
• Training and development opportunities, with professional memberships paid for.
• An environmental approach at the forefront of all we do.
• Opportunities for longer term career progression.
• Engagement with career pathway and hosted academic research projects.
• Regular staff appreciation events.
• Engagement with the local community and conservation projects.

Starting Salary:

In the range of: £23,800-£26,300 depending on experience.

How to Apply

Please send your CV, together with covering letter (1 side A4) explaining why you are right for
this opportunity and when you will be available to start to:

[email protected] with ‘Assistant Ecologist
Application’ in the subject header.

Closing date:

Sunday 1st September: apply early – applications may be considered sooner.