North Somerset Council Principal Ecologist advertised with CJS

North Somerset Council; Manchester; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking council as a Principal Ecologist, where you will lead a dedicated team in managing ecological projects and responding to planning applications. This role offers the chance to influence local biodiversity initiatives and contribute to the council's Green Infrastructure Strategy. You will engage with partners to protect wildlife and enhance natural habitats, ensuring a sustainable future for the community. With opportunities for professional development and a commitment to employee wellbeing, this position is ideal for passionate ecologists looking to make a real impact.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Opportunities for professional development

Dedicated Wellbeing Team

Salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme

Electric vehicle schemes

Option to purchase additional annual leave

Qualifications

• Professional qualification or equivalent experience in Ecology or related field.
• Experience with Habitat Regulations Assessments and ecological planning.

Responsibilities

• Lead advice for the Local Plan and develop supplementary planning guidance.
• Provide technical support for complex cases and promote best practices.

Skills

Ecological Planning

Habitat Regulations Assessments

Phase 1 Extended Ecological Surveys

Knowledge of Protected Species

Wildlife Legislation

Organizational Skills

Education

Professional qualification in Ecology

Equivalent experience at level 6 or above

Job description

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We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Principal Ecologist to join our Natural Environment Team. The team manages North Somerset Council-owned trees, the rights of way network, responds to planning applications, and delivers the Council’s Green Infrastructure Strategy.

In this role, you will manage a small ecology team, focusing on prioritising responses to planning applications, compiling reports (including Habitat Regulation Assessments), providing planning advice, and supporting colleagues on major projects. You will also assist with the delivery of the Nature Park initiative and Biodiversity Net Gain on council land.

Key responsibilities:

1. Lead advice for the emerging Local Plan, develop supplementary planning guidance, support Biodiversity Net Gain, collaborate on nature recovery networks, and contribute to the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. Explore wetland restoration opportunities, engage with partners across the West of England, and participate in projects to protect bats and create mitigation habitats.
2. Support service delivery of the Natural Environment Team Plan and Green Infrastructure Strategy, providing ecological advice to the Development Management Planning service.
3. Provide technical support for complex cases, guide colleagues, and promote best practices in ecological consultations and case work.
4. Assist in curating ecological records within North Somerset for planning and strategic purposes, in collaboration with NSC ICT and GIS Teams.

Essential criteria:

• Professional qualification or equivalent experience at level 6 or above in Ecology or related field
• Understanding of ecological planning issues
• Experience with Habitat Regulations Assessments
• Phase 1 Extended Ecological Surveys & UK Habitat Mapping
• Knowledge of protected species, especially bats
• Familiarity with wildlife legislation and policies
• Ability to organise own and team’s work to meet deadlines
• Membership of CIEEM or eligibility

Desirable criteria:

• Knowledge of biodiversity net gain
• Understanding of North Somerset and Mendip Bats SAC Guidance and Habitat Evaluation Protocol
• Line management experience
• Experience with arboricultural surveys

What we offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits
• Flexible working arrangements
• Opportunities for professional development
• Staff groups
• Option to purchase up to 10 additional days of annual leave
• Dedicated Wellbeing Team
• Salary sacrifice cycle to work and Electric vehicle schemes

How to apply:

For more information, email Esther Coffin-Smith, Natural Environment Manager, or call 07385 039 453.

Closing date: 29/05/2025

Interview date: To be confirmed

We can only accept applications from candidates with full permission to work in the UK.

Equal Opportunities:

North Somerset Council values diversity and is committed to equality. We aim to prevent discrimination based on sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, race, age, disability, or other protected characteristics. We strive for a workplace reflecting our community and encouraging everyone to bring their full selves.

We are dedicated to safeguarding children and young people, and all staff and volunteers share this commitment.

As a Disability Confident Leader, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria.

Closing Date: 29/05/2025

Location: Town Hall, Weston-super-Mare