Graduate Ecologist Level (x 2 positions available)

ABR Ecology have two fixed-term contract positions open to join our team starting asap on a years basis. We are currently seeking two Graduate Ecologists £23,000+ pa pro rata (negotiable dependent upon experience).

There is potential to extend into permanent positions at the end of the 2025 survey season for successful candidates. The roles would ideally suit candidates who have graduated within the last couple of years and are looking to gain experience in Ecological Consultancy. 

The positions are office-based, with extensive report writing skills to be gained, with our office located in Verwood, Dorset. We undertake many surveys in the field covering Dorset, Hampshire, Berkshire, Surrey, Somerset and the surrounds.

About ABR Ecology

ABR Ecology are a small, friendly consultancy based in Verwood, Dorset working throughout the South West. Our work includes a wide variety of exciting projects ranging from small-scale homeowner developments to more complex and challenging projects such as large-scale housing, large Biodiversity Net Gain developments and mineral projects.

We have a specialist expertise in bats although conduct a range of surveys including dormice, reptiles, great crested newts, barn owls and botanical surveys. We are a close-knit team currently consisting of 12 full-time members of staff, with seasonal support sought throughout our busy summer season. We are now looking for support to train over the coming winter to ensure we are ready for the survey season in 2025, as the company continues to grow. 

Graduate Ecologist Level (x 2 positions available) 

Full-time 37.5 hrs per week with Time Off In Lieu (TOIL) scheme for any overtime hours worked. Fixed-term seasonal contract with potential to extend to permanent roles for the right candidates and working hours during the summer months (particularly May and August) are expected to be long. 

The Graduate Ecologist role involves assisting our more senior members of staff with surveys including Phase 1 Habitat surveys, Preliminary Roost Appraisals (PRA) surveys, bat emergence surveys and reptile surveys and translocation. Other fieldwork may include assistance on dormouse, great crested newt, water vole and otter surveys. As a Graduate Ecologist, you will be expected to help prepare biological data searches and basic reports including bat reports, Ecological Appraisals and typing up field notes as part of a team. You will be expected to prepare for surveys such as preparing relevant maps, survey forms etc. The fieldwork is mainly based in and around the southwest but may be further afield on occasion. 

Biodiversity Net Gain training will be provided and surveys and reports will be prepared by yourself under the supervision of senior members of staff. We also have an excellent training regime and a myriad of voluntary protected species sites you would be welcome to join including dormice tube and Bechstein’s bat box sites within the local area.

Essential Skills - Graduate Ecologist Level

• Excellent time management. 
• A general understanding of current relevant UK Wildlife law. 
• Confident working with computers (using Microsoft Office) and other technology e.g. using tablets for bat emergence surveys. 
• Good communication skills - ability to liaise with other team members and clients by phone/email and in person. 
• Experience of report writing with attention to detail. 
• Well-organised, self-motivated and able to work both independently and as part of a team. 

Desirable Skills - Graduate Ecologist Level (not mandatory - training will be provided where required)

• Degree in Ecology or related field. 
• Experience of ecological surveys (in particular carrying out bat emergence/re-entry surveys and using bat detectors).
• Experience of Preliminary Ecological Appraisals / Phase 1 Habitat surveys.
• Experience in writing up ecological reports.
• Experience in using QGIS.
• Qualifying member of CIEEM or working towards membership.
• In the process of working towards personal Class licences for protected species (e.g. bats, great crested newts and dormice). 

Essential Practical Requirements

• Full, clean UK driving licence & access to car insured for business use.
• Dorset/Hampshire based (ideally Bournemouth area but will consider all areas - the candidate will need to relocate if from further afield).
• Ability to carry out fieldwork and work during unsociable hours including dusk/dawn times. Working over some Bank Holidays will also be required. Only in the months May to August.  

ABR Ecology are committed to providing a supportive working environment with a competitive salary, in addition to ongoing opportunities for CPD and training offered for permanent members of staff. If extending into a permanent position, support and training will be offered towards obtaining Class licences for protected species for the right candidates. A Workplace Pension Scheme is also provided through Nest.

ABR Ecology Ltd is an equal opportunities employer and will consider all candidates with the right experience from all backgrounds.

Interested applicants will send a CV and cover letter to phil.abrecology@gmail.com.