Milestones Trust jobs in Keynsham

Davidson-Watts Ecology is recruiting for an Operations Administrator to support a growing team of professional ecologists based out of its Bristol office.

Who are WE?

Davidson-Watts Ecology (DWE) is a well-known and respected ecological company that develops and leads the use of novel approaches to bat survey, assessment and mitigation, especially with respect to rare bat species.

We are regular providers of bat surveys, ecological services and mitigation for a wide range of major infrastructure projects and landscape sized developments where we think big and out of the box to ensure bats are considered at a strategic level.

Our clients include most major environmental consultancies, National NGOs, Wildlife Trusts, statutory agencies, as well as homeowners, architects, developers/planners, and landowners. Simply put, we punch well above our weight for an organisation of our size. This is not only due to the high calibre and drive shown by our team (including our amazing specialist sub-contractors), but also the adaptive and agile way we work, supported by the 75 years combined experience of DWE’s three technical leaders.

Although we specialise in challenging bat species, we are first and foremost ecologists, and we undertake a wide range of other ecology work including, ecological appraisals, ecological impact assessments, habitats regulations assessments, biodiversity net gain calculations and biodiversity management plans.

What is the OPPORTUNITY?

We require an Operations Administrator to support our growing team of ecologists in delivering their work to the highest possible standard for our clients and the environment. While not essential, the applicant would benefit from previous experience working in the ecology or environmental sector, however all applicants with a strong background in administration and project management are encouraged to apply. Depending on experience, we anticipate the job holder will take the lead on introducing new project management solutions to streamline our workflow as our team continues to grow and evolve, and to promote the work of the team through a variety of media to raise our profile. The role will be fully supported with the necessary CPD to enable the job holder to reach their full potential.

The role is a permanent position with flexible working options available to provide a good work-life balance in an interesting and challenging working environment. Working arrangements are an individual preference and these can be fully discussed, as our main focus is ensuring the right work environment for you to be at your best. We operate a time off in lieu system, and other benefits may include enhanced pension contributions, medical insurance and performance pay.

Outline of key expectations and anticipated duties, subject to experience:

Project Coordination & Scheduling

· Project Coordination: Work closely with our Technical Leads and project managers to ensure project milestones are met.

· Scheduling: Managing team diaries and scheduling surveys for ecologists and subcontractors, including organising site access, arranging vehicles, and booking accommodation.

· Project Management: Keeping in-house project management systems, trackers, and databases updated.

· Support for Bids: Assisting with the preparation and formatting of fee proposals, quotes, and tenders for new work.

Client Liaison & Administration

· Point of Contact: Manage liaison with clients and stakeholders, handling general enquiries, and managing the company email inbox.

· Report Assistance: Formatting and proofreading to ensure reports meet company standards.

· Document Control: Maintaining project files and ensuring documentation adheres to standards.

Office & Operational Management

· Bookkeeping: Handling purchases, invoicing, and chasing outstanding payments.

· Health & Safety Support: Assisting with H&S documentation, such as risk assessments and training records.

· Equipment Management: Monitoring the inventory of survey equipment, arranging maintenance and ensuring compliance.

General Administration

· Provide general administrative and HR support for our team of ecologists.

· Oversee and manage timesheets and expenses.

· Updating social media and website content.

About YOU

Our reputation demands the best from our team and those who work with us. We’re a small team that delivers novel approaches on some of the UK’s largest development projects and there will be pressure and expectation for you to deliver as part of a close-knit team. As such, we’re looking for individuals with a ‘can-do’ attitude who can utilise their expertise and initiative to support us in delivering the best possible service for our clients. You will need to be personable, flexible and motivated to manage your workload to a very high standard.

The successful candidate will:

· have excellent communication skills in both the written and spoken word;

· be confident in dealing with a range of clients and stakeholders by telephone and email;

· be competent with Microsoft Office Word, Excel and Outlook;

· have experience of financial administration, processing invoices and purchase orders, recording costs and expenses;

· be highly organised and self-motivated;

· show initiative to improve processes and drive efficiency;

· have a good eye for detail and work meticulously at all times.

While not essential, it is desirable that the successful candidate will also:

· be familiar with project management and workflow IT systems;

· be familiar with a range of social media platforms and website management;

· have a background working in the ecology or environmental sector;

· have an interest in ecology and the environment.

How to APPLY?

If you are an experienced administrator looking to apply your knowledge and expertise within a small, vibrant ecology team operating in a rewarding and challenging sector, then please do not hesitate to contact us.

To apply for the role, please send a CV and covering letter outlining why you believe joining DWE is right for you to matt@dwecology.co.uk

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: £26,000-£30,000 per annum Pro Rata

Benefits:

· Employee CPD programme

Supplemental pay types:

· Performance related bonus

Education and experience:

· A recognised administration qualification (preferred)

· At least 3 years’ experience as an administrator in a professions based environment (essential).

Ability to Commute:

· Westbury-on-Trym, BS9 3HQ (essential)

Ability to Relocate:

· Westbury-on-Trym, BS9 3HQ: Relocate before starting work (preferred)

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £26,000.00-£30,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person