Job Description

About Us

Miles Water Engineering is a long-established and dynamic water engineering practice and contractor, delivering innovative solutions across the UK. Our projects include conservation lakes, reservoirs, fountains, pumping systems, desilting, land sculpting, river restoration, natural flood management (NFM) and landscaping. We work closely with clients to create sustainable and ecologically sensitive designs that enhance biodiversity and water management. For more information, visit: www.miles-water.com

Key Responsibilities

Undertake ecological assessments including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA) and habitat surveys. Prepare and review environment and ecology -related planning documents such as: Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA) Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMP) Develop and integrate Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) into project designs, ensuring compliance with current legislation and client objectives. This would mean working with the design team as part of an iterative process and completing the necessary BNG documentation (e.g. BNG metric, habitat management Plans). Provide ecological advice during design stages, including habitat creation, species protection, and mitigation measures. Liaise with regulatory bodies, local authorities, and stakeholders to secure necessary permits and approvals. Act as an Ecological Clerk of Works where needed. Contribute to internal knowledge sharing and mentor team members where appropriate. Assist with silt/ soil testing and sampling activities and help organise associated laboratory submissions.

Essential Skills & Experience and qualifications

Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related discipline. Proven experience as an Ecologist in the commercial sector, ideally within infrastructure or water-related projects. Strong understanding of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy, and ecological best practice. Ability to produce high-quality technical reports and planning documents (PEA, EcIA, CEMP, BNG). Knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) principles and practical application. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, etc.). Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Full UK driving licence.

Desirable Skills and Experience

Protected species licences - particularly for bats, Great Crested Newts and Water Voles. Familiarity with QGIS - for mapping tasks such as generating project plans, access maps and spatial datasets. Familiarity working with fish, in the context of managing fish on a given site. Completing flood risk assessments. CAD drawing skills for ecological design integration

Attributes

Rigorous attention to detail and commitment to quality. Self-motivated with strong problem-solving skills. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. Effective time and task management. Passion for landscape and waterscape construction and biodiversity enhancement.

Why Join Us?

Opportunity to work on unique and environmentally significant projects across the UK. Support for professional development and training in complementary disciplines. Collaborative and innovative working environment. Opportunity to develop additional skills within the company.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits:

Company pension On-site parking
Application question(s):

Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or related Strong understanding of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy, and ecological best practice.
Work Location: In person