Ecologist

Northumberland County Council; North East; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority is seeking an experienced Ecologist to provide advice on planning applications and policies that affect wildlife. Join a supportive team to work on a variety of development projects in a region with rich habitats. Applicants should have a relevant degree and a full driving licence. The role offers flexible working arrangements and excellent benefits including annual leave and pension schemes.

Benefits

26 days annual leave plus public/bank holidays

Automatic enrolment into the Local Government Pension Scheme

Flexi scheme (up to 2 days flexible leave per month)

Qualifications

• Detailed understanding of biodiversity net gain and land use planning system.
• Confident in identifying habitats and species significance.
• Full driving licence is required.

Responsibilities

• Provide specialist advice during the development management process.
• Review planning applications to secure wildlife outcomes.
• Assist with policy development for ecology matters.

Skills

Degree in Ecology or related subject

Understanding of nature conservation legislation

Assessment of habitats and species

Ability to secure wildlife outcomes

Experience with Habitat Regulations Assessments

Education

Degree in Ecology or related subject

Job description

Role of the Job

We require an experienced Ecologist to provide specialist advice to planning officers and developers through all stages of the development management and strategic planning process.

As part of a group of Ecologists in the Environment and Design Team, you will review planning applications and assist with policy development, working with colleagues across the Planning Service to secure the best outcomes for wildlife in contexts ranging from housing schemes and industrial development to the working and restoration of large minerals sites. We also provide advice about ecological matters to other services in the Council, help to lead work on the North of Tyne Local Nature Recovery Strategy and work with landowners to develop and oversee a supply of habitat banks in Northumberland.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a friendly and supportive team, working in a large and diverse county with a stunning coastline and extensive uplands rich in important habitats and species. We offer flexible working arrangements.

Requirements of the Job

• You will have a degree in Ecology or a related subject and detailed understanding of nature conservation legislation, the land use planning system and biodiversity net gain.
• You will understand how to secure the best outcomes for wildlife through the planning system and will be confident in identifying a range of habitats and species and in assessing their significance.
• Experience of undertaking Habitat Regulations Assessments would be an advantage, as would the holding of protected species licences.
• A full driving licence is required.

For further information about this vacancy, please contact David Feige, Environment and Design Team Manager & County Ecologist on 0777 4295253 for an informal discussion.

Why choose us?

We have some outstanding benefits and perks to offer you, including:

• 26 days annual leave plus public/bank holidays, rising to 31 days after 5 years of service (pro rata for part-time employees)
• Automatic enrolment into the Local Government Pension Scheme
• Flexi scheme (if applicable) – up to 2 days flexible leave available per month (pro rata for part-time employees)

To apply, please click here