The Vacancy
Binnies are recruiting for an experienced Ecologist at Technical Director level within our growing Ecology team to provide a lead role in our input to nature-based solutions, biodiversity advisory and ecological restoration work areas. We have a strong focus on biodiversity enhancement and restoration across our portfolio of work at all scales and sectors including flood, coastal and maritime, local authorities, water utilities, transport and renewable power. This key role would also support our growing portfolio of water and catchment work including natural capital projects and Solutions by Nature; our joint venture providing nature-based solutions via blue-green infrastructure to the water industry.
You would be a key part of our national Environmental team and work with our ecologists, landscape architects, project managers and other specialists to drive the quality of our designs and assessments. You would take on high profile ecological assessment advice roles in large scale Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects, as well as supporting the growth and development of a range of smaller-scale habitat creation and restoration opportunities, from pilot projects through to on-the-ground delivery.
We are already developing new approaches through our Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), GIS and Digital Ecology specialists to optimise the use of technology in collecting data this role would have significant engagement and oversight of this work.
Depending on your skill sets and interest there would also be the opportunity to also undertake wider ecological assessment, design and survey work depending on your background.
You would be welcome in one of our offices and preferably in the South of the UK (Redhill, Bradford on Avon/Bristol), but we are open to candidates from across the country and offer hybrid or remote working.
Binnies is a registered Ecological (CIEEM) and Landscape Practice (Landscape Institute) and hold the IEMA EIA Quality Mark, which is a benchmark of our high standards in EIA delivery.
About The Role
To be the Binnies Nature Recovery Lead, the role would involve:
- Taking a leading position in this topic area for technical oversight and development for Ecology within the Environment Team.
- Taking responsibility for Ecology oversight of emerging work in the Binnies portfolio including habitat restoration, wetland creation, habitat creation and providing foresight and connections to Binnies specialist staff.
- Providing technical specialist input to Plan and Project-level Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) on larger projects, including Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects.
- Maintaining oversight of ‘BNG+’ where land management advice, habitat banking and integration into wider landscape design or habitat restoration are needed beyond statutory compliance and requires dedicated and experienced oversight, supporting our dedicated BNG and botanical survey staff.
- Providing support and advice on design of habitat restoration/creation schemes to maximise biodiversity outcomes on projects and strategies.
- Supporting business development and tenders.
- Working with our GIS and Digital specialists to maximise use of technology to optimise assessments, surveys and monitoring programmes.
We are happy to adapt the role to your preferences for maintaining your technical discipline and experience.
If you would like to discuss the role in advance of making a formal application please contact our Head of Ecology Owen Peat [email protected]
Qualifications/Requirements
The role is suitable for an experienced Ecology professional with full membership of CIEEM/Landscape Institute or equivalent. You should possess and be able to demonstrate the following qualifications, skills and knowledge:
- have an ecological/environmental related degree;
- be Chartered, or currently eligible for Chartership;
- have experience of leading teams (specialist or project teams) to deliver ecological designs and/or assessments;
- have proven experience in leading ecological assessments on major projects (NSIPs) covering EIA and/or HRA;
- have experience of working with Biodiversity Net Gain and landowner considerations;
- have experience of working with a range of regulators and stakeholders to improve the ecological outcomes of Plans and Projects;
- have excellent written and oral communication;
- enjoy innovation and embracing advances in technology and ecology;
- hold a full UK driving licence.
Desirable experience includes:
- wider environmental impact assessment and consenting;
- contribution to natural capital and ecosystem services assessments;
- team management;
- previous consultancy experience.
About Us
We develop intelligent solutions using our award-winning integrated planning and design approach to deliver functional infrastructure and lasting environmental and social legacies. This is backed by a culture that has stayed true since our foundation over 100 years ago. We create new possibilities for humanity through our innovative approach to delivery.
Together with our clients, we are always striving to find a smarter way to deliver projects. From providing low carbon, sustainable and resilient water solutions, flood alleviation and environment services, to connecting people with insights and data. Our business exists to improve the quality of life for our local communities today and for generations to come.
Binnies is part of the RSK Group, a leading integrated environmental, engineering, and technical services business providing dynamic, multidisciplinary services to a wide range of sectors. RSK was founded in 1989 and has grown considerably since then.
At RSK, we operate as a group of businesses that work together seamlessly, aiming for growth through diversification. Our strategy helps us build a strong and resilient business, capable of weathering external challenges, while also providing greater value to our clients and more opportunities for our employees.
Since the beginning, our philosophy has remained the same: employ, develop and reward talented individuals. People are crucial to our company, and we recognise that our success hinges on our colleagues' growth. We're committed to preserving RSK's people-first culture, promoting innovation, and fostering a supportive and caring environment for collaboration. At RSK, we want you to be part of our successes and help you reach your career aspirations. We take pride in offering employees fulfilling and challenging careers by promoting ongoing growth and empowering individuals to excel.
We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We firmly believe that embracing and celebrating the diversity in our workforce makes us a stronger and more innovative company.
If you're passionate about making a difference, join us as we work together to build a brighter, more equitable, and sustainable future for all. Do you have what it takes?
Benefits
Private Health Insurance
Income Protection
High Street Vouchers
Life Assurance
Annual Leave Purchase
Cycle to Work Scheme
Discounted Gym Membership
Mental Health Support
Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme