Thomson Environmental Consultants are experts in environmental compliance. Our specialist teams have been advising our clients across various sectors, on how to achieve their objectives and meet required environmental compliance since 2004. We cover a breadth of specialisms and are always pragmatic with our advice. With offices in Birmingham, Cardiff, Guildford, Leeds and Manchester, our teams provide: ecological advice; undertake surveys and assessments; habitat design and creation; ecological contracting; invasive species management; freshwater and marine consultancy; arboriculture consultancy and contracting; data management and mapping; and marine laboratory services (invertebrates, fish and sediment analyses).

You can find out more about the type, size and scope of the projects we work on here: https://www.thomsonec.com/projects/

You’ll be joining a company which is ambitious, progressive, rapidly growing and offers certainty in times of change. One where you play a key part in shaping the future and where you will be directly rewarded for your contributions to its growth, as we are proudly employee owned. We are constantly innovating and being opportunistic to market changes. This is demonstrated through many recent in-house development projects and the addition of climate change and biodiversity net gain to our commercial offering to our clients. It really is an exciting time to join #teamthomson!

Our workplace is happy and friendly - we are commercial but not corporate, guided by our values of Respect, Integrity, Support and Excellence. As an Employee Owned Trust (EOT) our collective efforts generate results that translate into greater rewards for everyone. You’ll enjoy all the benefits we have to offer, including EOT approved bonuses (after a qualifying period), the opportunity to contribute to and lead on high-profile, once in a life-time projects, 25 days annual leave, free parking (location dependent) and regular social events, with the odd cake thrown in for good measure!

Are you a freshwater aquatic ecologist, looking for your next exciting role in the commercial sector? If you are commercially aware, self-motivated, organised, with excellent communication and project management skills, we would love to hear from you!

The role

We are looking for a senior technical specialist to join our small, dynamic team. You will be responsible for the delivery of freshwater projects, including leading surveys, undertaking data analysis, and preparing technical reports. You will also be responsible for the line management and training of junior staff in the freshwater team. You will have technical expertise in macroinvertebrate identification, and experience in using freshwater biological indices used in describing the status or health of a river system. You will also support the delivery of fish population monitoring and fish rescue work, undertaking river ecology habitat scores.

You will already be working at principal or senior level, with a wealth of experience within commercial consultancy. As such, you will ideally have experience of undertaking business development, preparing quotes and tenders, and building client relationships. You will be a technical expert and capable of writing accurate and concise technical reports.

Successful candidates must

• have relevant and proven experience in a similar role, specifically within the commercial environmental sector
• hold a degree or postgraduate degree (or equivalent) in Aquatic Ecology, Hydro-ecology or a related subject
• have macroinvertebrate identification skills to at least family level (TL3) and ideally mixed taxon level (TL5)
• be technically competent, with an in-depth knowledge of aquatic ecology, legislation, and survey techniques
• have excellent written and verbal communication skills; be able to produce meticulous and accurate technical reports as well as communicate confidently with clients and stakeholders
• be organised with proven ability to multi-task and handle several projects simultaneously
• be able and willing to travel and stay away from home
• be a member of an appropriate professional institute
• have a full UK driving licence and use of a car
• have a positive outlook and a strong desire to succeed.

Ideally you will also

• have experience of leading and motivating a team of both site and office based staff
• have a proven work winning track record, experience of preparing bids and tenders and generating new business opportunities.

This is a permanent position ideally based at our head office on the picturesque Surrey Research Park in Guildford. However, we will also consider applicants who live within an hour’s commute of our other offices in Birmingham, Cardiff, Leeds or Manchester. The successful candidate will live within commuting distance of these offices or be prepared to relocate.

What you can expect from us? Read some of our employee testimonials:

"Thomson has provided me with the opportunity to manage a diverse portfolio of projects from a variety of sectors. The company fosters a positive atmosphere where everyone feels valued. The support team are fantastic and work tirelessly to make life easier for everyone else. Thomson thrives on innovation and actively engages with research institutes to improve the effectiveness of its survey methods. People are recognised for their achievements and there are plenty of opportunities for career progression. I recommend Thomson for anyone considering a career in ecology." - William T

"Thomson offers its staff a great culture in which to thrive in. With an open door policy, supportive team environment and flexible working, it creates a happy and productive work place. Our CEO is always keen to explore new ventures, making Thomson an exciting place to work and let’s not forget our amazing staff parties organised by our very own social team!" - Finance Team

"I’ve found the culture of the company refreshing – there’s a fast-pace approach to decision making which means that ideas are not just discussed, but implemented!" - Tessa H