Assistant Ecologist – Full Time (Permanent)

We are currently looking for Assistant Ecologists to join our Ecological Consultancy team based in Bristol. This is an exciting full-time, permanent position where you will work alongside a small team of ecologists in a friendly and supportive micro-consultancy environment.

This role provides an excellent opportunity for motivated candidates to develop their ecological skills, gain hands-on survey experience, and build a career in ecological consultancy. You will be supported by experienced colleagues and given opportunities to develop both field and office-based skills.

Abricon specialises in terrestrial ecology, working mainly across the South West of England.

Due to the project-based nature of our work, candidates must be willing to undertake field survey work. The majority of our projects are local and typically within a one-hour drive of the office.

We work hard to ensure our team members achieve a healthy work–life balance, and Abricon Limited operates a 4-Day Work Week (32 hours). This means our team works fewer hours than a traditional 5-day consultancy role, while maintaining a competitive salary and providing more time for life outside work. We also have caps on the amount of evening/night work or other antisocial hours undertaken.

The role will include evening bat surveys, and candidates must be available Monday to Thursday evenings during the bat survey season (April–October). Occasional weekend work may also be required, although this is usually daytime fieldwork.

We are looking for enthusiastic and motivated individuals who are keen to develop their career in ecology and contribute to a growing consultancy. If this sounds like you, please apply with your CV and a brief cover letter outlining how you meet the job description.

The Successful Candidate Will:

• Hold a degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. Ecology, Environmental Science, Biology).
• Have prior experience working in ecological consultancy or a related field (desirable).
• Have experience in protected species surveys, such as dormice, great crested newts, bats, reptiles, badgers, and Phase 1 / Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (desirable).
• Be self-motivated, proactive, and organised, with a strong willingness to learn and develop professionally.
• Be a member of CIEEM or eligible for membership.
• Have an understanding of UK wildlife legislation, planning processes, and the ecological consultancy sector.
• Be proficient in Microsoft Office packages (Word, Excel, etc.).
• Hold a full UK driving licence with no endorsements and have access to a car for work-related travel.
• Be physically fit and comfortable working on large outdoor sites in varying weather conditions.
• Be willing to be office-based most days, working collaboratively with colleagues while also undertaking fieldwork as required.

The Role Includes:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and skills.
• One-to-one training in protected species surveys and ecological report writing.
• Strong support for professional development, including opportunities to attend training courses.
• Opportunities to develop client communication and consultancy skills.
• Supportive colleagues who will help with career development.
• Career progression opportunities within a friendly and growing company.

Expected start date: May 2026

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

Please apply with CV and covering letter to: ecology@abricon.com