OR117995 – Senior Ecologist – Facilities & Environment

Work Pattern: 1 day office 4 days remote, 37 hour per week

PAYE Pay Rate: £45.43 per hour

Main Purpose of the Role
To provide professional ecological and biodiversity advice to the Council, supporting planning applications, major developments and planning policy. The role focuses on protecting and enhancing biodiversity and wildlife habitats while ensuring development meets relevant legislation and planning requirements.

Typical Day Overview

• Review planning applications and provide ecological advice.
• Advise on biodiversity, wildlife habitats and ecological impacts of development.
• Support major developments and strategic growth projects.
• Carry out ecological surveys and research.
• Prepare clear reports and recommendations for Council committees.
• Provide advice during pre-application discussions.
• Liaise with planners, developers, councillors, residents and external agencies.
• Respond to ecological enquiries and consultations.
• Attend meetings, presentations and public hearings where required.
• Support planning policy and ensure current environmental legislation is considered.

Key Skills & Responsibilities

• Strong knowledge of ecology, biodiversity and wildlife habitat protection.
• Experience providing ecological advice within planning/development management.
• Understanding of relevant environmental legislation and Government guidance.
• Ability to assess the ecological impact of planning applications.
• Experience with biodiversity enhancement and habitat protection.
• Strong report writing and presentation skills.
• Ability to communicate and negotiate with a range of stakeholders.
• Experience working with local authorities, planners, developers or environmental agencies.
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office, databases and spreadsheets.
• GIS knowledge is desirable.
• Ability to work independently and manage competing priorities.

Essential Requirements / Qualifications

• Degree or Diploma in Ecology or a related discipline.
• Significant relevant ecology experience.
• Practical experience in biodiversity protection and wildlife habitat enhancement.
• Understanding of planning policy and the development management process.
• Knowledge of current legislation relating to wildlife, biodiversity and habitat protection.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational and negotiation skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Membership of CIEEM is desirable.
• Experience of ecological appeals, public inquiries or acting as an expert witness is desirable.
• Familiarity with GIS is desirable.
• Must be able to travel/mobile throughout the Borough.