Experienced Scientist - Ecology

SMEC is seeking an Experienced Scientist - Ecology in Melbourne, VIC, Australia. The role involves field-based botanical surveys, ecological impact assessments, and project delivery. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in Ecology, experience in ecological assessments, and strong interpersonal skills. SMEC offers a flexible work environment and opportunities for career growth within a global engineering consultancy focused on infrastructure projects.
• Global engineering consultancy with genuine career growth opportunities
• Opportunity to work on a broad range of interesting and challenging projects
• Flexible work environment with a great team culture

About SMEC

SMEC provides unique opportunities to work on iconic industry projects with experienced colleagues and leadership teams. We support and empower employees to drive innovation initiatives within a well-established and growing organisation.

Infrastructure

At SMEC, we understand that our continued success within the infrastructure market is the result of building long-term client relationships. We listen and understand the specific needs of our clients and deliver a complete value chain of services to provide sustainable solutions across major infrastructure projects worldwide.

The role

We are seeking a talented Experienced Ecologist to join our growing Environmental team based in Melbourne or Geelong.

With a minimum of 4 years' experience, you will play a key role in:
• Field-based botanical survey work, including vegetation mapping, ecological monitoring, targeted threatened flora survey and Vegetation Quality Assessments using the Habitat Hectares approach
• Ecological impact assessment and offsetting for a range of projects from small scale infrastructure impact assessments to assisting with major projects of state significance, e.g. Environment Effects Statements
• Preparation of proposals and technical reports for public and private sector clients
• Assisting with the delivery of projects on time and within budget and to required quality standards
• Conducting vegetation surveys in South-East Australia in a broad range of environments, particularly within Victoria

With a track record of achievement in a similar role, you will have gained your experience in an engineering design consultancy and have a passion for building trusted relationships to drive positive change and win new work.

Suitable applicants will have/be:
• Bachelor's degree in Ecology or related discipline
• Well-developed botanical identification skills, including experience using dissecting microscopes and identification keys
• Experience undertaking Habitat Hectare assessments (Habitat Hectare accreditation preferable)
• Willingness to work flexibly, particularly when undertaking flora surveys and traveling to remote locations
• Ability to independently undertake flora surveys and present findings in detailed technical reports
• Understanding of national and state environmental legislation and policy (e.g. EPBC Act, FFG Act, Planning and Environment Act) is desirable but not essential
• Well-developed interpersonal skills: A strong team player who builds rapport with both internal & external stakeholders
• A current Victorian driver’s license and capacity to work outdoors
• Consulting experience is desirable but not essential
• Building and maintaining effective relationships internally and externally and contribute to effective client relationship management

What we offer
• Flexible work arrangement to support work/life balance
• Ethical client base
• Opportunity to work alongside and be mentored by industry leaders
• Professional Development Programs from graduates to leaders through mixture of inhouse programs and external courses as well as tertiary education financial assistance
• Dynamic career pathways and opportunities to work on projects nationally and internationally
• Purchased additional annual leave
• Generous paid parental leave (primary and secondary)
• Wellbeing benefits

How to apply

Applications must be submitted online. To apply, click on the "Apply Now" link below and follow the prompts.

For a confidential discussion regarding this opportunity, please contactHelen.Kruimel@smec.com

All recruitment activities go through our Resourcing function and currently, this role doesn’t require agency input. Please do not forward resumes directly to SMEC employees/managers; we do not accept unsolicited resumes and are not responsible for any associated fees.