Assistant Ecologist

Colmer Ecology is seeking an assistant ecologist, based in our Exeter office for a candidate eager to start their career within ecology and join a respected, south-west consultancy.

Who we are

Colmer Ecology is an independent ecological consultancy based in Brampford Speke, Exeter, Devon. Our converted office is located right by the River Exe, in a rural farm environment with fantastic, far-reaching countryside views.

We pride ourselves in delivering a comprehensive portfolio of ecological services and regularly work with developers, private individuals, local planning authorities, planning consultants and charities to address clients’ specific project requirements.

Our client base encompasses largely southern England, although we occasionally work on projects throughout the UK. We also provide specialists advice to large multi-national organisations, conservation charities, as well as the renewable sector.

We provide ecological solutions and innovation to our clients in a pragmatic, proportionate and engaging manner. We are client focused, friendly, passionate about our profession and have a supportive and friendly working environment.

Main Duties

As an assistant ecologist, you will join our existing team and play an important role in providing support on a wide range of ecological projects such as preliminary ecological appraisals, protected species survey, and data analysis (bat sound and video review). The successful candidate may also be involved in requesting data searches, answering telephone calls and data input.

A significant amount of fieldwork is likely, but largely across the south-west, and always under the mentoring of senior staff, receiving ongoing support throughout.

This is an opportunity for a recent graduate to gain first-hand experience, potentially as your first position, or build on a season of experience you may already have. The position is fixed term, full-time from mid-April/May 2026 until the end of September 2026, and based at our office.

Essential Skills

• A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline. Colmer Ecology would consider candidates without a bachelor’s degree but with relevant experience.
• Keen and genuine interest in ecology and biodiversity.
• Basic understanding of ecological consultancy.
• Excellent English communication skills (both verbal and written), excellent planning and organisational skills.
• Committed and reliable with good time management skills.
• Initiative and enthusiasm to learn, as well as willingness to work evenings and unsociable hours (bat surveys).
• Live within commuting distance to the general Exeter area.
• A full valid UK/EEC driving license is essential with access to your own car.
• Eligibility to work in the UK.

Desirable skills

• Some previous relevant work experience in a similar role but NOT essential.
• Some botanical identification skills.
• Some practical knowledge of UK wildlife legislation/appropriate survey guidance for protected species.
• Ability to work in a team.
• Willingness to learn!

What we offer

• The opportunity to be part of a friendly, knowledgeable and supporting team, working in a non-corporate environment.
• Work with a respected south-west consultancy.
• Close and supportive working relationship with principal staff.
• Mentoring and career progression.
• Projects mainly south-west based – no long periods staying away from home.
• Based in a modern, spacious, converted barn overlooking the River Exe and surrounding countryside.
• All necessary and up-to date equipment provided.
• TOIL policy to ensure fairness, with flexible working hours.
• Statutory sick pay and maternity leave in line with most recent government guidance.
• An exciting and interesting portfolio of projects, not just developer driven and no involvement with HS2.
• Involvement in conservation driven ecological projects such as riparian ecological renovation.

Salary

We offer a competitive salary of £26,000 per annum pro-rata (37.5 hour week)

In addition:

• Pension contribution after qualifying period.
• 28 days statutory holiday (pro-rata).
• End of season and Christmas team outings.