Ecological Consultant

Practical Ecology Pty Ltd has been in operation since 1993 and is one of Victoria's leading ecological and bushfire planning consultancies. We have a team of experienced consultants that focus on ecology and bushfire risk management, and undertake a diverse range of projects for private and public landowners/managers across Victoria.Our ecological consulting services focus on undertaking flora and fauna surveys, with either a view to determining legislative implications associated with likely impacts and/or the provision of land management advice to retain and protect the values present. We also provide a skilled team of bushland restoration practitioners that undertake weed control, planned burning, revegetation and general vegetation management.We are currently seeking an experienced Ecological Consultant to join our team. The focus of this Consultant will be dependent on the skills and experience they can bring to Practical Ecology, along with their own desires when it comes to focussing on botanical or zoological consulting, or both. This role will see the successful candidate undertaking ecological surveys and reporting, as well as providing ecological advice to clients and preparing quotes/tenders.Working with Practical Ecology as an Ecological Consultant provides the opportunity to be involved in all facets of project management, from initial quoting and client liaison, to fieldwork, report writing, mapping and invoicing. You will therefore have chance to not only share your existing skills and experience, but to build on these, and learn all facets of ecological consulting in a team oriented, positive and inclusive environment.The following Selection Criteria apply to this position: * Tertiary qualifications (degree or higher) in Ecology/Environmental Science (Zoology/Botany/Ecology), Natural Resource Management or related discipline.

• Knowledge of the flora and/or fauna of Greater Melbourne and regional Victoria, with good identification skills.
• Experience in undertaking field based ecological surveys (5+ years with an focus on zoology and/or botany), preferably in an ecological consulting capacity or similar.
• A sound working knowledge, and ability to apply, relevant legislation and policy relevant to ecology, including but not limited to the Planning and Environment Act 1987, Victoria's Guidelines for the removal, destruction or lopping of native vegetation and other relevant environmental legislation, including the FFG Act and the EPBC Act.
• Demonstrated ability to prepare reports and other related documents, including flora and fauna assessments, impact assessments and management plans.
• Demonstrated experience in project management, including liaison with clients, management of multiple projects, meeting deadlines and working within a budget.
• A high level of professionalism, exemplified by excellent time management and communication skills, including sound negotiation and interpersonal skills to build and maintain client relationships.
• An ability to work independently but also within a team environment, showing teamwork and leadership ability, including the ability and willingness to train and mentor other staff in relevant area of expertise as appropriate.
• High level of computer literacy (with GIS abilities highly regarded) and current manual Australian driver's licence are essential; a Working with Children's Check and Rail Card highly desirable.

The following will also be highly regarded: * Accreditation as a native vegetation assessor (via a VQA competency check).

• Practical knowledge and experience in native vegetation and habitat management including developing management plans for bushland reserves, restoration project design, construction environment management plans, weed management plans or similar.
• knowledge of fire ecology, bushfire behaviour and management, including experience with building design matters and town planning as they relate to bushfire.

What we offer:You will be supported by our Consulting Co-ordinator, Managing Director, other Consultants and Administrative staff.Benefits include:

• A competitive remuneration package based on experience, knowledge and skills.
• Discretionary bonuses based on annual company performance.
• An opportunity of Full-time or Part-time permanent employment, subject to negotiation.
• Overnight allowance for nights away from home to complete fieldwork, if required.
• Flexible work arrangements, with an emphasis promoting work-life balance.
• Professional development opportunities, including a personal training budget.
• Friendly and relaxed working environment, with a supportive and approachable team of professionals.
• Social activities.

nrmjobs.com.au/job/20021456Date published:05-Apr-2024Closing date:28-Apr-2024, 5pm