The Atkins ecology team are one of the most respected in the UK, with a reputation for technical excellence, innovation, award winning and actively shaping the future of the ecology industry. We are now seeking a new graduate/ assistant Ecologist to join our well-established and growing team of 14 ecologists in Birmingham.
As one of the world’s leading engineering, environmental and design consultancies, Atkins offers opportunities for talented ecologists to work on a wide variety of projects alongside in-house national experts for the benefit of Biodiversity and our clients.
The collaborative relationship between our ecology team and our engineering, planning and design colleagues provides excellent opportunities for ecologists to develop both their technical and commercial skills. Here at Atkins, we prioritise the learning and development of our team members, with a unique in-house Academy training and development programme and a mentorship scheme to support you in your career development.
Our team of 70 ecologists based in offices around the UK is committed to providing specialist ecological advice in connection with infrastructure, development and other projects. You can expect to assist on protected species surveys, licensing and mitigation, habitat assessment, creation, restoration, management and monitoring, biodiversity offsetting, green infrastructure and Environmental Impact Assessments.
Still unsure? See what our Ecologists have to say about working at Atkins: https://careers.atkinsglobal.com/ecology-careers .
Responsibilities
For this position, the majority of the work is likely to be regionally based, but there will be opportunities for technical collaboration with our ecologists throughout the UK. You will be supported in developing your career through formal training and through working alongside national experts. You will:
• Provide technical and project support to the Birmingham Ecology team and beyond;
• Work with ecologists and other professionals (environmental scientists, engineers, planners) throughout Atkins and across the UK to provide a consistent and integrated service to clients;
• Assist on field surveys and help plan and co-ordinate ecological mitigation works;
• Undertake nature conservation / ecological assessments;
• Continue to develop your technical skills paying attention to CPD requirements;
• Manage your own time and workload in collaboration with other team members;
• Prepare bids and management of project budgets;
• Work within deadlines and budgets; and
• Work effectively as part of a team delivering a first-class service to both our clients and the natural environment.
Requirements
Qualifications
• A degree in a relevant discipline and preferably an MSc;
• Graduate or associate membership (or eligible if not currently held) of Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM)
Essential Criteria
• Awareness of relevant UK & EU legislation;
• Awareness of relevant planning policies and protected species licensing regulations;
• Knowledge of identification and survey for UK protected species and invasive species;
• Basic understanding of commercial aspects of consultancy (ideally with experience working within ecological consultancy);
• Knowledge / experience of Phase 1 habitat survey;
• May hold or be working towards a protected species licence;
• Experience of report writing (ideally including EcIA chapters / ecological constraints surveys / risk assessments);
• Flexibility over travel and hours (it is a requirement to be available to work in the evenings and early mornings and it may be necessary to be away from home for one or more nights per week, regularly during the survey season); and
• Full UK driver’s licence.
Training
Atkins develops individuals through a range of internal and external training and development activities designed to help make the best of your abilities and talents. Our Academy offers a structured development and training programme to further enhance your career in both ecological and project management skills to industry recognised standards.
We actively support staff in achieving corporate membership of relevant institutions.
Rewards and Benefits
Please refer to our website for details of our full benefits package.
This role may require security clearance and offers of employment will be dependent on obtaining the relevant level of clearance. If this is necessary it will be discussed with you at interview.
If applying to this role please do not make reference to (in conversation) or include in your application or CV, details of any current or previously held security clearance.
