Estate Ecologist

Closing date: 9 Aug 2024

We are looking for an enthusiastic Estate Ecologist to join our team on a full-time basis. In this role, you will be instrumental in monitoring, managing, and conserving the biodiversity of our Estate while actively engaging with stakeholders and the public in various environmental initiatives. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the flourishing of natural habitats, support the Estate’s environmental strategy, and deepen the understanding of ecological principles and share these with team members, local residents and other stakeholders. We love this place and are keen to grow in our understanding of the relationship between people and nature on the Estate. To learn how our actions impact for better and for worse the flora and fauna that surrounds us. The successful individual will support the Estate in developing and monitoring its biodiversity net gain project.

Key Responsibilities:

Conduct and organise thorough surveys to develop and document the Estate’s flora and fauna baseline, maintaining accurate records of species diversity, distribution, and abundance.
Design and implement ecological surveys to evaluate the health and status of ecosystems on the Estate, analysing data to identify significant records, trends, threats, and conservation priorities.
Work closely with project teams to integrate ecological considerations into farming, land management, development, and restoration projects, providing expert advice on habitat conservation and enhancement.
Engage with both internal and external stakeholders, including government agencies, local conservation groups, SDS, farm tenants to foster partnerships and coordinate collaborative conservation efforts.
Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers for fieldwork, data collection, and habitat restoration projects, ensuring effective contribution to conservation efforts.
Work with Sussex University and others on research projects.
Organise and lead events, workshops, and guided tours to raise awareness about local biodiversity and ecological conservation, creating activities to inspire public interest and participation.
Be actively involved in the Estates BNG project.
Act as a spokesperson for the Estate on ecological matters, delivering presentations, lectures, and media interviews to communicate key conservation messages and promote environmental stewardship.

Qualifications and Experience: Essential:

Either a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or Biology or;
Qualified by experience and can demonstrate a high level of knowledge and ability in biological recording and conservation/environmental matters through recent positions.
In-depth knowledge of local flora, fauna, and ecosystems.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and within a multidisciplinary team.
Experience in project management and stakeholder engagement.
Proficiency in data analysis and GIS software is desirable.
Prior experience in volunteer management and event coordination is preferred.
Demonstrated passion for environmental sustainability and for people and how they best work together.
Strong understanding of farming and farmland ecology.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage a diverse range of audiences.
Understanding of biodiversity net gain, natural capital, and carbon accounting.
Proficiency in IT (Microsoft Office).
Working knowledge of GIS software, Land App.
Strong time management and organisational skills.
Full UK driving license
Full right to work in the UK

Desirable:

BSc or equivalent in a relevant subject.
Experience in BNG baseline assessments, BNG management plans.
Experience in report writing.
Experience in volunteer engagement, recruitment, and management.
Experience in Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, EIAs and Phase 1 habitat surveys.
Confidence in public speaking.
Experience working with the public in the context of nature and conservation.
Knowledge of Agri-environment schemes and options
Assisting in creating content for social media.

SALARY: Market Related. Full time – 8:30am to 5:30pm with ecologist designed TOIL policy. LOCATION: Steyning, West Sussex.

Please send a CV and covering letter to Greg Sheard at [email protected]