Location
Snodland, Kent / Farnborough, Hampshire / Arlington, East Sussex / Central London

Hours
Full Time

Salary
£40,000 per annum

About the Role
Are you an experienced ecologist looking for a role that combines hands-on work with strategic oversight and training? South East Water is seeking an Environmental Performance Officer - Ecologist to join our team as the in-house expert advising on a wide range of protected species. You will hold at least two relevant Protected Species Survey Licences and possess strong botanical skills alongside a solid understanding of Biodiversity Net Gain. This pivotal role involves working within designated sites, navigating ecological challenges related to construction, undertaking hands-on ecology work, reviewing proposals, and auditing ecological services.

You will influence design to minimise ecological impacts, plan and carry out surveys and mitigation, and communicate effectively with Project Teams and Managers. You will provide environmental advice to ensure projects are programmed and executed in line with environmental constraints, avoiding risks or implementing appropriate controls. Your responsibilities include preparing and coordinating high-quality technical reports, managing and auditing contractors, participating in scheme and programme meetings, and supporting the environment team by liaising with stakeholders and regulators. Additionally, you will deliver training and updates across the business and oversee Protected Species Licensing while keeping policies current with legislation, guidance, and best practice updates.

Experience
- Minimum of two Protected Species Survey Licences
- Demonstrable practical environmental experience in survey and mitigation including supervision of works on site
- Experience obtaining and managing protected species licences
- Proven ability to work within designated sites and manage ecological challenges related to construction
- Experience managing contractors and contract documents to ensure environmental risks are managed effectively
- Strong knowledge of ecology relevant to South East England, including protected species, invasive non-native species, designated sites, and biodiversity net gain
- Excellent communication skills with a wide range of internal and external audiences
- Ability to train others and provide environmental advice
- Experience preparing and reviewing technical reports to meet internal, stakeholder, and regulatory requirements

About you
Technically qualified environmentalist with a robust practical background, able to influence project design and execution to minimise ecological impacts while enabling business functions. You are proactive in staying updated with ecological legislation and best practices, and you thrive in collaborative environments involving multiple stakeholders. A full, clean driving licence and willingness to travel across company regions are essential.

Qualifications
- Degree, HND, or equivalent work-related experience in a scientific or environmental discipline
- Full, clean driving licence

Desirable
- Membership of a professional chartership or working towards it
- Strong botanical survey skills
- Knowledge of relevant planning processes including Environmental Impact Assessment (Ecology Chapter)
- Experience with GIS and aquatic environments
- Experience in biodiversity net gain
- Experience managing projects including finances