Location
Central London, with teams based in Ashwell (Hertfordshire), Brighton (East Sussex), Basingstoke (Hampshire) and Tewkesbury (Gloucestershire).

Hours
Full Time - standard office hours with flexibility and hybrid working options available after probation (up to 2 days per week remote).

Salary
£26,000 per annum

About the Role
CSA Environmental is a multi-disciplinary consultancy with a team of over 40 ecologists, working with a diverse range of clients including major housebuilders, conservation bodies, councils, infrastructure providers and private landowners. As an Assistant Ecologist, you will join a busy and expanding team delivering high-quality ecological services such as habitat banks, Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, biodiversity net gain assessments and detailed species surveys. You will assist senior ecologists by conducting UK Habitat Classification surveys and protected species surveys for species including badgers, bats, dormice, otters, water voles, birds, reptiles and great crested newts. Your role will also involve coordinating survey work, maintaining survey equipment, completing desktop studies, interpreting biological records, and preparing technical drawings using QGIS and other graphics software. Additionally, you will assist in preparing technical reports including Ecological Impact Assessments, Biodiversity Net Gain Assessments, mitigation strategies and Habitat Management Plans. CSA offers a supportive environment with opportunities to work alongside landscape, masterplanning and heritage colleagues, fostering a broad understanding of planning and development. This role offers a nine-month full-time contract initially, with potential for permanent employment based on performance. CSA values work-life balance and provides a comprehensive benefits package to support your professional growth and wellbeing.

Experience
- Relevant ecology or biology degree (preferably 2:1 or above)
- Interest in UK ecology and knowledge of wildlife legislation
- Evidence of developing ecological field skills
- Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams, PowerPoint)
- Physical fitness and willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions
- Full UK driving licence with access to a vehicle insured for business use

About you
- Friendly, highly motivated and conscientious
- Passionate about ecology and consultancy
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Hard-working and eager to take on new challenges
- Highly organised, able to multi-task and a strong team player
- Forward thinking with an interest in latest survey techniques and innovations
- Willingness to undertake up to 3 night-time surveys per week during peak season, including overnight stays (accommodation and subsistence paid)

Qualifications
- Desirable: Protected species or habitat survey experience, possibly with a specialism
- Interested in or working towards protected species survey licences and botanical qualifications
- Experience with QGIS or other GIS software and bat sound analysis programs
- Membership of CIEEM or other relevant professional bodies