Overview

Advance Your Career as a Principal Botanist at Southern Ecological Solutions (SES)

Are you an experienced botanical expert looking to lead and inspire in a dynamic environment? Southern Ecological Solutions (SES), an innovative member of the RSK Group, is searching for a passionate Principal Botanist to join our thriving team. This full-time, permanent position offers a hybrid working model, ideal for candidates based in the Midlands or along the M1 corridor who can commute to our projects and offices in the region. Lead botanical projects, mentor a talented team, and help shape the future of ecological consultancy with SES.

SES is a trusted consultancy specializing in Ecology, Arboriculture, and Landscape Planning & Design. For over a decade, we have built a reputation for delivering pragmatic, innovative solutions to clients ranging from global corporations to private homeowners. At SES, you’ll have the opportunity to advance your career while contributing to environmentally sustainable growth.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven Botanical Expertise: Extensive experience in leading botanical surveys and vegetation assessments, with an in-depth knowledge of plant ecology and habitats in the UK.
• Qualifications: A degree in botany, plant sciences, ecology, or a related field. A postgraduate qualification is desirable.
• Licensing Mastery: Familiarity with protected species licensing and habitat management practices.
• Leadership Skills: Experience in mentoring and managing teams, with a track record of successfully delivering complex projects.
• Commercial Acumen: Demonstrated ability to build client relationships, identify business opportunities, and contribute to company growth.
• Commitment to Excellence: Strong understanding of environmental legislation, planning policy, and best practices in botanical consultancy.

Responsibilities

• Botanical Leadership & Expertise: Lead botanical surveys, habitat assessments, and vegetation mapping. Provide expert advice on plant identification, invasive species, habitat restoration, and other botanical matters.
• Project Oversight: Guide diverse projects from inception to completion, ensuring high-quality outcomes within timelines and budgets. Collaborate on complex ecological assessments and mitigation strategies.
• Team Development: Mentor and inspire a team of ecologists and junior botanists, fostering professional growth and driving a culture of excellence.
• Client Engagement: Build lasting relationships with clients, delivering tailored solutions and identifying opportunities for growth. Represent SES with professionalism and thought leadership.
• Compliance & Best Practice: Ensure all projects adhere to current legislation and industry standards, including ecological and planning policies.
• Collaboration Across Disciplines: Work closely with Arboriculture, Landscape Planning, and other teams within SES and the wider RSK Group to provide integrated solutions.

What We Offer

• Competitive Salary: Earn between £45,000 - £55,000 based on experience and expertise.
• Birthday Leave: Take a day off to celebrate your special day.
• Life Assurance: Benefit from our life assurance plan for added peace of mind.
• Pension Contributions: Support your future with employer contributions to your pension.
• Generous Holidays: Start with 20 days (plus bank holidays), increasing annually up to 28 days.
• Private Medical Insurance: Access private healthcare to prioritize your well-being.
• Flexible Benefits Programme: Customize your perks, including additional holidays, health cash plans, and discounted gym memberships.

RSK Group is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Join the SES team and make a meaningful impact on the environment while advancing your career as a Principal Botanist.

About Us

We are a multi-disciplinary consultancy specialising in ecology, habitat management, arboriculture, and landscape design, based in Essex, UK. Since our company’s founding, we have grown to become a leading UK provider of specialist ecological, arboricultural and landscape design consulting services. Our diverse portfolio includes clients in the fields of infrastructure, development, conservation charities and individual bespoke projects. Our business is continuing to expand into new markets, and we are forming new teams to meet future challenges.

SES has a team of 52 qualified ecologists, landscape architects, arboriculturists and coordination and support staff. We are part of the RSK Group, a leading integrated environmental, engineering, and technical services business. Our philosophy is to employ, develop and reward talented individuals, with a people-first culture that supports collaboration and growth.

Equality & Inclusion

We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We actively encourage applications from candidates of all genders, races, ethnicities, ages, neurotypes, religions or beliefs, sexual orientations, and those with disabilities.

Documents

Inclusive Recruitment Guide for Candidates

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Research, Analyst, and Information Technology

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