OverviewRole: Senior Consultant - Terrestrial EcologistLocation: Bristol - HybridRole ID: 2025 - 2718Salary: £38,000 - £55,000Our vision is to create a safe and sustainable world.We are looking for an experienced Terrestrial Ecologist at Senior Consultant grade to join our team. You will provide technical support on ecology projects across clients in the water, developer, infrastructure, and public sectors. The role offers opportunities across the UK and occasionally beyond. Experience in Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA), Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA) and Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRA) would be advantageous, with projects spanning biodiversity (including Biodiversity Net Gain) and protected species/habitat work.ResponsibilitiesProject management and implementation of ecological assessments, plus coordination of surveys, consultation, and mitigation in support of client proposals and operations.Manage the technical work of junior staff and sub‑consultants; depending on experience, manage projects and provide direction. Team leadership opportunities as the team expands.Engage in a range of terrestrial ecology tasks and related disciplines, with freedom to develop your focus across technical work, project management, bids/tenders, or a generalist role.Collaborate with the team to explore interests and deliver high‑quality outputs across projects.Key Competencies and ExperienceIn‑depth knowledge of UK and EU wildlife legislation, planning policies, licensing requirements, and best practice survey techniques.Proven ability to lead PEA, EcIA, and HRA; understanding and/or experience of WRMP options appraisal is an advantage.Experience working on large infrastructure or development projects.Experience leading field surveys, analysing results, and coordinating ecological mitigation works.Experience applying for and holding licenses for protected species mitigation/conservation.Experience writing thorough reports and assessments (e.g., HRA and Environmental Statement chapters).Experience in preparing ecology proposals and tenders.Full Membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) or equivalent.Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to produce meticulous technical reports and communicate with clients and stakeholders.Strong organisational skills with the ability to multi‑task and manage multiple projects.Desirable ExperienceTwo or more protected species survey licences (ideally in England and Wales), including at least one for bats.Experience leading and motivating a team of site and office staff; mentoring junior colleagues.Building client relationships and generating opportunities; preparing bids and managing project budgets.Collaboration with multi‑disciplinary regional teams; track record of successful project management.Skills and BehaviourA self‑starter in a busy team environment; strong teamwork, clear communication, understanding of ecological impact assessment, and attention to detail.Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced setting with opportunities for career development within Ricardo Energy & Environment.Working hereCollaborate with technical experts on cutting‑edge projects addressing real‑world sustainability issues. You will gain exposure to the latest methodologies and innovations in the industry, with opportunities for career advancement within Ricardo as knowledge grows.Work life balanceFlexible working options including remote, office, or hybrid arrangements. Wellbeing is central to our culture, supporting employees to flourish.BenefitsRemuneration and benefits reflect the value placed on you, including support for physical and mental health.Next stepsIf the application process does not align with your requirements, please email recruit.ee@ricardo.com and we will arrange suitable accommodations. After submission, a member of our Recruitment Team will be in touch. Timelines may vary depending on application volumes; in some cases we may begin reviewing before the closing date. #J-18808-Ljbffr