Assistant Conservation Officer

L.R.A.S.S; Guildford; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading conservation organization is seeking an Assistant Conservation Officer to support planning applications in Surrey. This role involves reviewing ecological advice, preparing reports, and managing data, primarily office-based with flexible working options. The ideal candidate will have a degree in ecology and experience in ecological assessments. Join a team committed to promoting biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Benefits

Pension Contributions

Life Assurance

Employee Support Scheme

22 Days Holiday

Flexible Working

Qualifications

• At least one year of experience providing ecological advice.
• Familiarity with biodiversity net gain assessments.

Responsibilities

• Review technical information and prepare reports.
• Assist in reviewing planning applications.

Skills

Client Communication

Teamwork

Report Writing

Education

Degree in Ecology

Job description

Closing date: Wednesday 4 June 2025

Salary: £22-£25,000 p/a dependent on experience

Contract type: Permanent / Full-time

Location: Pirbright HQ, School Lane, Pirbright, Surrey, GU24 0JN

Flexible working policy

We are seeking an Assistant Conservation Officer to assist in reviewing planning applications submitted to Local Planning Authorities in Surrey.

Contact: Robert Hutchinson

Job reference: Assistant Conservation Officer

Ecology Planning Advice Service supports SWT's mission by assisting Local Planning Authorities in reviewing planning applications for various projects, from small developments to strategic housing and infrastructure.

The Role

The successful candidate will review technical information, prepare reports on assessments, and manage data to support the team. The role is primarily office-based at our HQ in Pirbright, with flexible, hybrid working options and some site visits. A valid UK driver’s license and flexibility in working hours are essential.

We offer a flexi policy promoting work/life balance, including some home working, within an engaging and challenging environment.

Criteria and Specification

Experience

• At least one year of experience providing ecological advice to developers or Local Planning Authorities
• Familiarity with biodiversity net gain assessments using current metrics

Education

• Degree in ecology or relevant subject, or equivalent experience

Knowledge

• Understanding of UK legislation, planning policy, and ecological survey guidelines
• Knowledge of biodiversity net gain and habitat/species management
• Experience with protected species surveys and mitigation techniques

Skills

• Prompt, professional client communication
• Teamwork and collaboration skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication, including report writing

Personal Qualities

• Enthusiasm and ability to inspire
• Proactive, adaptable, and flexible
• Personable, independent, and a team player
• Passionate about conservation and aligned with Wildlife Trusts’ ethos

The salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience, including benefits such as pension contributions, life assurance, employee support scheme, 22 days holiday, and flexible working.

We value diversity and encourage applications from underrepresented backgrounds, including minorities and people with disabilities. We offer accessible recruitment processes and adjustments as needed.

If This Is The Role For You

Please submit a completed application form to Robert Hutchinson, Manager of SWT EPAS. The deadline is 12 pm on Wednesday, 4 June 2025. Interviews will be conducted remotely via Microsoft Teams initially, with in-person interviews at our HQ in Pirbright during the week of 9 June 2025. Please specify if an alternative interview arrangement is needed.

Our vision is to connect people with nature, providing expert advice, promoting biodiversity, and supporting health and wellbeing through conservation efforts across Surrey.

Application form & role profile

• Planning Assistant - Application Form
• Planning Assistant - Role Profile