The role of the ecologist is to provide technical support to frontline maintenance engineering works and support the implementation of new biodiversity management standards and policies. Technically, the railway ecologist needs to be competent to deliver Preliminary Ecological Assessments, Habitat Assessments (identifying and mapping habitats using NVC/Phase 1 methodology, with experience of UKHAB preferred) and Clerk of Works duties. Protected and Notable Species are frequently encountered on the network and the railway ecologist needs to hold sufficient competency to advise on and mitigate risk, including applying for Wildlife Licenses from Natural England. Technical Competencies are measured against the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management Competency Framework.
It is important to recognise that the working environment is challenging and different to development scheme scenarios that ecologists are typically engaged with. On the operational railway, works are 24/7 and there are many different types of engineering activities in motion at any one time, which can and do have varying levels of impact on wildlife and the natural environment. A railway ecologist needs to be able to apply project management skills and have the ability to prioritise and manage multiple, competing and complex tasks. A large element of the role will involve developing and implementing plans to ensure that business units are compliant with internal Standards for biodiversity management. Crucially, there are many internal and external customer interfaces to be managed, so good communication and influencing skills are a must.
Essential
Key skills you should hold:
* Ability to demonstrate and display Southern Region values - always safe, care about people, teamwork, empowered to do the right thing for those who use the rail network
* A relevant higher degree in Ecology, Zoology, Biological Sciences or other relevant Environmental Sciences, or equivalent experience
* Good understanding of UK and European wildlife legislation and best practice guidance experience
* Professional experience in ecological management - this should demonstrably cover PEA, habitat survey and mapping, Species Licensing
* Highly developed project management skills with an ability to manage multiple, competing and complex tasks
* Proven ability to direct and manage contractors, consultants and staff
* Solid experience with local community consultation and working with diverse stakeholders
* Ability to work with data capture and analysis tools (e.g. ArcGIS)
* Membership of Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) or equivalent
* Full UK driving licence