Biodiversity Net Gain under the Environment Act represents the biggest leap forward for ecology in decades, raising the profile of ecologists and consolidating the natural environment sector as a key stakeholder in land and development management. This is therefore an exciting time for ecologists, presenting opportunities not to be missed. As a forward thinking business, we want to embrace these opportunities and appoint a BNG Champion to lead the way we think about natural capital management, delivering positive gains for the environment and our client base.

About Us
Ascerta is a small consultancy with big clients and even bigger ambitions. Covering a wide spectrum of projects across the UK we’ve been guiding clients on landscape, arboricultural and ecological issues for decades. Although we’re based in Merseyside, we’re active on projects across the whole country and have a sister company in London giving us excellent geographical coverage.

About the Role
Working closely with our client base and with the support of our in-house ecology, landscape and arboricultural teams, the role will involve assessing projects within the context of the DEFRA Biodiversity Metric and delivering real-world gains in habitat enhancement and management, whether that’s directly as on-site benefits or through offsetting. Our BNG Champion will lead the way in our decision making processes on a range of projects across the residential and commercial development sectors, as well as wider land management schemes that we will be supporting. This is a home-based role with opportunities to carry out site visits as necessary and liaison with a supportive range of clients.

The Ideal Person
This role would suit an experienced and qualified ecologist already working at, or looking to move to a senior position, who is fully conversant with the Biodiversity Metric and believes in the opportunities that BNG presents. Full membership of CIEEM (MCIEEM) will be a distinct advantage, although we will fully support anyone close to upgrading their membership shortly. Having a positive attitude and comprehensive knowledge of UK planning policy & natural environment legislation is a pre-requisite for this opportunity, as is the ability to process data to a high degree of accuracy and an advanced understanding of the software used to successfully undertake this role.

Hours and Environment
Whilst ideally we are looking for someone to commit to a full-time position, we understand the need for a positive work-life balance, therefore for the right candidate, part-time hours will be considered. We do work in a fast-paced environment, however we are small enough to offer the flexibility that can often be overlooked by larger organisations.

Salary & Benefits
We are offering a starting salary in the range £30,000 to £40,000 per annum (pro-rata for part-time), generous annual leave increasing with length of service, pension, paid professional memberships and regular social events. We have a policy of listening to our team, therefore if there is a specific benefit that would make the role more attractive for you, let us know and we’ll be happy to consider it.

How to Apply
Please submit your CV via the online form on this page.