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 capabilities with a solid understanding of Biodiversity Net Gain. This pivotal role involves working within designated sites and managing the ecological challenges of construction projects. You will undertake hands-on ecology work, review proposals, audit ecological services, and provide training to colleagues. Additionally, you will oversee Protected Species Licensing and stay ahead of ecological updates to ensure compliance and best practice.

The role includes influencing design to minimise ecological impacts, planning and carrying out appropriate surveys and mitigation, and communicating effectively with Project Teams and Managers. You will provide environmental advice to ensure projects are well planned and executed in line with environmental constraints, avoiding risks or implementing appropriate controls. Responsibilities also include preparing and coordinating high-quality technical reports, reviewing work by others, managing contractors and contract documents, participating in scheme and programme meetings, and liaising with stakeholders and regulators. You will contribute to environment team meetings and update policies in response to changes in legislation, guidance, and best practice.

Experience
- Minimum of two Protected Species Survey Licences
- Robust practical environmental experience in survey and mitigation including supervision of works on site
- Experience obtaining and managing protected species licences
- Demonstrable work experience relevant to ecology and environmental management
- Good knowledge of ecology relevant to South East England, including protected species, invasive non-native species, designated sites, and biodiversity net gain

About you
- Excellent communication skills with a wide range of internal and external audiences
- Ability to train others and provide environmental updates across the business
- Ability to travel across company regions as required
- Strong strategic and practical approach to ecological challenges in construction and designated sites

Qualifications
- Technically qualified environmentalist with a degree, HND, or equivalent work-related experience
- Full, clean driving licence