FPCR have been at the forefront of the development of BNG since 2012, having more recently been heavily involved in the development of version 2.0, 3.0 and 4.0 metrics, lead a consortium to develop the small sites metric, and completed a contract to design and build the BNG GIS templates.
As a result of FPCR's continued involvement, widely seen as a trusted authority on BNG matters and because of the evolving legislative and policy framework in the UK, we have seen an increased volume of 'project' related BNG work from our existing client base in addition to other involvement in prospective biodiversity banking and offsetting schemes.
We are therefore seeking to grow our team capability in this area from field survey assessment through GIS Mapping, metric population to habitat creation, management and monitoring plans. Whilst it is the intention for these to be the core responsibilities of the job role, there will also be opportunities for involvement in the more general ecological field survey work and reporting. So although the role is primarily as a biodiversity net gain specialist, there will be a requirement to maintain a flexible and adaptable attitude and approach and it will be necessary to work alongside and contribute to objectives of the wider Exeter ecology team. Initial broad work areas are outlined below:
What will you be doing?
- Undertaking fieldwork, including site surveys and monitoring
- Preparation of management plans and documents required to secure projects
- Liaison with various stakeholders including developers, local authorities, landowners, environmental NGO’s
- Land management advice, habitat restoration advice, overseeing habitat creation projects
- Biodiversity net gain assessments, including use of biodiversity metrics and design and delivery of net gain solutions
- GIS mapping
- Development and input into projects as opportunities arise
- General ecological field work
- Report writing
- Associated consultancy services in support of the practices core business
What we are looking for?
We are looking for an enthusiastic and experienced ecologist that has the following skills:
- Degree level or equivalent academic qualification in Ecology or related field
- Membership of Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM), eligibility for membership or other similar is desirable;
- Experience in the use of the 4.0 metric and condition assessments
- Knowledge of BNG principles and processes
- GIS use (preferably QGIS or aptitude to learn)
- Botanical survey experience – FISC 3 or equivalent and proficient in survey using UKHab classification
- Preparation of habitat management plans
- A full, clean UK driving license and access to a vehicle.
Desirable skills of interest include:
- Experience of Phase 2 protected species survey (reptiles, GCN, bats, dormouse, riparian mammals, badgers etc.)
- FISC 4 or equivalent botanical expertise across a range of habitat types
- knowledge of the planning system
Why FPCR?
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd is one of the UK’s leading integrated design practices working extensively throughout the UK. Over the last 60 years the practice has developed a valuable mix of multi-disciplinary expertise in masterplanning, environmental assessment, urban design, landscape, ecology, architecture, arboriculture and green infrastructure. Working together, we have implemented many award-winning schemes in environmentally sensitive locations.
At the start of 2021 FPCR became an Employee-Owned business. Our people and culture are vital to the service we provide, and we feel this is the best way forward for the future of the practice. Employee Ownership will enable the whole team to share in the future growth and success of the business, whilst the practice can remain responsive, independent, and adaptable.
Our ecology team is led by four directors who each joined the company in junior positions and are committed to providing the same supportive and fostering environment that is at the heart of our practice. Our team of over 120 ecologists work out of five offices across the UK.
Could you be one of the experienced, talented and energetic professionals helping to continue the development of the team, responding to our clients and keeping FPCR moving forwards whilst responding to new challenges in ecological practice? The positions provide the right candidates with an ideal opportunity to be a part of a motivated team offering technical advice to a diverse range of clients covering projects across all aspects of ecology.
What you can expect in return:
Salary: £25-32k dependent on experience
Our employees really are our greatest asset, representing a wide range of skills and experience from across the field of UK ecology. We are proud to offer our staff at all levels the opportunity to pursue their individual interests as this helps us to facilitate shared learning across our practice.
We are offering a competitive salary with the opportunity for annual bonuses, enrolment on our pension scheme and 25 days holiday, compressed working week and a holiday purchase system. Everyone is enrolled in a BUPA health and wellbeing cashback scheme. Staff well-being is very important to us, and the teams frequently have a range of volunteering and social activities going on.
FPCR is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion within the workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their race or gender.
If you feel you are the right candidate, or feel you can offer FPCR’s ecology team other relevant experience and skills, please submit your CV along with a covering letter, together with any supporting documentation that you feel may be of interest.
Candidates must have the right to work in the UK.
ABOUT FPCR
Established in 1957, FPCR are an award winning multi-disciplinary environment and design practice with expertise in Landscape, Urban Design, Masterplanning, Architecture, Ecology and Arboriculture. We believe our diverse range of skills provide clients with an excellent rounded approach to projects while concurrently providing our staff with a dynamic and diverse place to work.