Job Description

About HW Forestry

HW Forestry provides sustainable forestry management and advisory services that combine commercial performance with environmental stewardship. With deep expertise in new woodland creation, woodland carbon projects, ecological services and long-term estate management, HW Forestry supports landowners, investors, and developers in enhancing the natural and financial value of their assets. Drawing on decades of operational experience, the firm delivers end-to-end solutions across planning, establishment, and management, ensuring every project aligns with best practice in biodiversity, carbon, and rural development.

Role Summary:

We are seeking a passionate and knowledgeable Ecologist to support the planning, implementation, and monitoring of woodland creation and carbon planting schemes across Wales. This role is central to delivering biodiversity enhancement, climate resilience, and carbon sequestration goals in line with Welsh Government initiatives and the UK Forestry Standard (UKFS).

Key Responsibilities:

Provide ecological expertise for woodland creation projects, from initial scoping to post-planting monitoring. Conduct ecological assessments including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, UKHab surveys, and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) evaluations. Interpret ecological data (e.g., LERC records, habitat surveys) to inform site selection and planting design. Ensure compliance with environmental legislation and best practice, including Habitat Regulations and protected species licensing. Collaborate with landowners, planners, and Natural Resources Wales (NRW) to develop verified woodland creation plans. Support grant applications under schemes such as the Woodland Creation Grant and Small Grants - Woodland Creation. Deliver ecological toolbox talks and stakeholder engagement sessions. Monitor ecological conditions and mitigation measures during and after planting. Contribute to carbon accounting and reporting for afforestation projects.

Essential Skills & Experience:

Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field. Strong understanding of Welsh and UK environmental legislation and forestry standards. Experience in woodland ecology, habitat classification, and protected species surveys. Proficiency in GIS and ecological data analysis. Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills. Membership of CIEEM or working towards it.

Desirable:

Experience in land management, forestry, or agroforestry. Knowledge of carbon offsetting schemes and natural capital accounting. Familiarity with NRW verification processes and Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) requirements.

Benefits:

Flexible working arrangements Generous annual leave and pension contributions Opportunities for professional development * Contribution to climate and biodiversity goals in Wales.