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Brief Description
Network Rail have a fantastic opportunity available for an experienced Ecologist available to be based in the Wales & Western Region (main offices in Cardiff, Bristol, and Swindon).
The role is part of the wider Director of Engineering and Asset Management (DEAM) team, specifically working in the 'Weather Resilience and Sustainable Development' team who work on other aspects of Sustainability in addition to Biodiversity. The Ecologist role will report directly into the Environment Manager (Biodiversity) role who is the acting lead for biodiversity across the Wales & Western Region. Network Rail has recently released a National Environment and Sustainability Strategy: https://www.networkrail.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/NR-Environmental-Strategy-FINAL-web.pdf and the ecologists working in-house at Network Rail are integral to implementing the objectives of this strategy, in relation to Biodiversity. We also have Ecologists working in other areas of the business across the Wales & Western Region, so this is a great opportunity to join Network Rail's expanding Ecology team and develop in this role.
Previous experience of working in land management or specifically writing biodiversity management plans would be beneficial as one of the main tasks for this role will be producing habitat and vegetation management plans (HVMPs). This will involve undertaking site visits and relevant Ecology surveys to inform the plans. The initial focus will be to complete these HVMPs for locations in proximity to designated sites and areas where imminent works are planned. As a result, the Ecologist will also be required to remit works specifically for habitat management for Biodiversity, reviewing reports from external suppliers and undertake surveys for species and habitats, and completing relevant report writing (including HRA, GIS mapping and BNG calculations).
About the role (External)
Undertake and complete a range of Ecological field surveys, including protected species surveys and extended Phase 1 Habitat Surveys.
Collate, write up and review survey results and mapping target notes and review to identify appropriate recommendations.
Manage the implementation and embedding of recommendations to deliver continuous improvement.
Undertake and complete environmental impact assessments.
Lead the development of appropriate mitigation strategies, utilising results of surveys and liaising with Environmental Specialist's and the Arboriculture team.
Analyse and interpret data, using specialist software programs. Produce periodic and ad hoc reports to a high technical standard within prescribed timescales.
Provide specialist ecological advice and guidance to site managers, engineers, planners, and others associated with the undertaking and completion of surveys and / or assessments.
Develop and maintain effective working relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, including statutory bodies, local authorities, and members of the public.
Assist in the production of environmental appraisal reports.
Carry out research as required.
Essential
• Comprehensive field experience
• A relevant higher degree in Ecology, Zoology, Biological Sciences, or other relevant Environmental Sciences
• Good understanding of UK and European wildlife legislation and best practice guidance experience
• Be able to identify baseline Ecological constraints during site visits
• Have significant experience of standard survey protocols and methodologies
• Ability to complete rare species surveys
• Good interpersonal, influencing, communication and organisation skills
• Task orientated team player
• Strong report writing skills
Desirable
• Knowledge of operational railway environment
• Knowledge of ISO 14001 Environmental Management Standard
• Full/associate/graduate membership of Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) (depending on experience)
• Experience attending client meetings and working with multi-disciplinary teams
• Competent with Microsoft Office
Full UK driving licence
How to apply (External)
Salary: £43,588 to £49,037 Band 4C
Closing date: 20 January 2025. - Late applications will not be accepted.
You can visit Evenbreaks Career Hive for advice on accessibility support if you're unsure of the options available. Should you require any reasonable adjustments/modifications, please add a note to your application.
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