Location Midlands, UK

The Vacancy

Join Our Growing Team as Assistant Ecologist at Southern Ecological Solutions (SES)

Are you an enthusiastic early career ecologist eager to make a real impact? Southern Ecological Solutions (SES), a vibrant and forward-thinking member of the RSK Group, is looking for ambitious Assistant Ecologists to join our thriving team. This full-time, permanent position offers a hybrid working model for our growing team in the Midlands and North of England.

Why SES?

SES is a leading Ecological, Arboricultural, Landscape, Planning & Design consultancy. We have built a reputation for delivering pragmatic, solution-oriented consultancy services. Our diverse clientele ranges from multinational corporations working on high-profile projects to conservation-led initiatives within the public and third sectors.

Join SES and become part of a company known for sustainable growth and exceptional client service. Help us continue to make a positive impact on the environment through innovative ecological solutions.

Your Role

• Conduct field surveys, managing your schedule efficiently to meet project deadlines.
• Perform Preliminary Ecological Appraisals in accordance with guidelines, with support from senior team members for standard and complex sites.
• Oversee various projects, from small-scale developments and single-species mitigation to complex projects, with guidance from experienced colleagues.
• Coordinate ecological surveys, ensuring timely delivery and accurate results.
• Manage project milestones, key dates, and on-site survey timetables across multiple projects.
• Engage actively with the ecology team and broader SES team, promoting our business and maintaining high standards of reputation and performance.

What We’re Looking For

• A degree in ecology or a related field, or significant experience within a professional ecological consultancy.
• A full UK Driving Licence and willingness to travel throughout the UK for client meetings and fieldwork.
• A proven track record in conducting surveys and producing reports.
• Solid understanding of ecology, legislation, and survey techniques, including assistance on protected species surveys and developing mitigation strategies. Working towards protected species licences and eager for career progression.
• Developing botanical survey identification skills with enthusiasm to progress further with SES botanists and external CPD.
• Understanding of protected species planning policies, such as the NPPF and Local Plans, in relation to development projects.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary between £26,000 - £36,000, based on experience and qualifications.
• Birthday leave to celebrate your special day.
• Life assurance for peace of mind.
• Pension contributions to support your future.
• Generous holiday allowance starting at 20 days (plus bank holidays), increasing up to 28 days with service.
• Private medical insurance.
• Flexible benefits, including options to buy additional holidays, health cash plans, and gym discounts.

#ecology #environmentaljobs #botany #BNG #RSKfamily

RSK will not accept unsolicited CVs from agencies other than RSK PSL or secondary agencies.

About Us

We are a multidisciplinary consultancy in ecology, habitat management, arboriculture, and landscape design, based in Essex, UK. Since our founding, we have grown into a leading provider of ecological, arboricultural, and landscape design services. Our portfolio includes infrastructure, development, conservation charities, and bespoke projects. We are expanding into new markets and forming new teams to meet future challenges.

SES has 52 qualified ecologists, landscape architects, arboriculturists, and support staff. Our ecological work includes due diligence reporting, land appraisals, habitat design, protected species surveys, and impact assessments. Our landscape teams focus on strategic, innovative, and context-led design.

Part of the RSK Group, a leading environmental and engineering services provider since 1989, we operate as a group of businesses working seamlessly together. Our growth strategy emphasizes diversification, resilience, and delivering value to clients and employees.

We prioritize employing, developing, and rewarding talented individuals. Our success depends on our colleagues' growth. We are committed to a people-first culture, promoting innovation, inclusivity, and a supportive environment. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and provide workplace adjustments to support diversity and flexibility.

If you're passionate about making a difference, join us to help build a sustainable future. Do you have what it takes?