Are you ready to stand at the forefront of Biodiversity Net Gain and apply your passion for the environment to an exciting range of projects?
There has never been a greater need for focus and action to conserve biodiversity, both globally and in the UK. As Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) becomes mandatory in November 2023, biodiversity will become a priority for new planning applications within England, bridging the gap between nature and development and creating sustainable, environmentally conscious schemes.
Urban Green is looking for an Assistant Biodiversity Net Gain Consultant to join our growing team. You will be responsible for supporting the Biodiversity Net Gain team to ensure the successful delivery of projects. You will see projects through from inception to post-development monitoring, helping to inform design and advise clients along the way.
Your role will be a combination of field-based surveying and office work, with a large focus on delivery of written reports and habitat management plans. You will be trained to carry out habitat assessments using UKHab methodology, as well as using the Biodiversity Metric to calculate the pre- and post-development biodiversity value of sites, and you will be responsible for producing detailed and accurate reports to be used during the planning process and 30-year post-development management period.
A key part of the role is multi-disciplinary working, with other teams; in-house and external consultants, therefore a flexible and enthusiastic approach, and a desire to learn, is required.
Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:
Supporting a portfolio of interesting and complex projects from initial inception through to post-development monitoring
Field work, including small- and large-scale habitat surveys following UKHab methodology, on-site mapping and condition assessments of habitats
Delivering written Biodiversity Net Gain feasibility and design stage assessments
Producing 30-year, site-specific management plans
Collaborating with other in-house teams, such as arboriculture and landscape architecture, and with external consultants
Advising clients and supporting the delivery of external workshops and presentations
Updating project documentation to reflect changes/updates or in response to consultee comments
Having an awareness of project requirements to ensure that our services are delivered effectively and on-time
Contributing to team resource planning and supporting the ecology team if required
Essential Requirements
A degree-level qualification in ecology or relevant environmental subject
Professional membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) or working towards
Experience working in an ecology-related role; undertaking field surveys, following standardised methodology, data recording and analysis
Experience of report writing and delivering technical data in a clear and concise manner
Understanding of habitat management strategies and the role of habitat management plans in conservation
Strong time management and organisational skills and ability to work under pressure to deadlines
Basic knowledge of UK and EC wildlife legislation and policy
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and an ability to work at all levels with colleagues, clients and consultees
IT competence in MS Office
Enthusiastic and flexible approach to work and willingness to learn and pursue professional development opportunities
A valid UK driving licence
Flexibility to work outside normal office hours and away from home as necessary
Desirable Requirements
MSc level qualification
Familiarity with UKHab methodology to undertake field surveys
Experience undertaking Biodiversity Net Gain assessments using the Biodiversity Metric
Experience using GIS
Benefits
Urban Green offers a competitive rewards and benefits package, access to a range of individual and professional development opportunities and the guarantee of an engaging and supportive working environment. We are an Equal Opportunities Employer.
We offer the following benefits:
1 paid professional membership annually
Cycle to Work scheme
Technology scheme
Free eye tests
Discount on local leisure centre
Access to company vehicles
Workplace Pension Scheme
23 days holiday, rising to 24 following 3 years’ continuous service
How To Apply
If this is you, then please send a cover letter and CV for the attention of the Office Manager by email to hello@weareurbangreen.co.uk.