Planning Ecology Officer

Isle of Wight Council; Newport; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A Local Government Authority in Newport seeks a Planning Ecology Officer to support biodiversity efforts in development projects. This role involves facilitating nature-positive developments, providing ecological advice, and engaging stakeholders. The ideal candidate will have strong communication skills and ecological expertise. An excellent opportunity to contribute to local environmental initiatives while enjoying benefits such as 32 days of annual leave and a local pension scheme.

Benefits

32 days annual leave

Local Government pension scheme

Discounted ferry travel

Cycle to work scheme

Staff parking permit

Relocation scheme up to £8,000

Qualifications

• Ability to carry out investigations and prepare reports.
• Experience in reviewing and commenting on planning applications.
• Knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain processes.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate nature-positive development.
• Review and comment on planning applications.
• Implement Biodiversity Net Gain processes.
• Engage with stakeholders in the planning process.
• Provide ecological advice within planning.

Skills

Ecological advice

Communication skills

Stakeholder engagement

Job description

Overview

37 hours per week.

Do you care about the natural environment you live in?

Do you want to make positive difference?

Do you believe that development can benefit nature and people at the same time?

Whether you are starting your career in ecology or are looking for something different, this could the role for you!

With a newly appointed Senior Planning Ecologist, a well-advanced new local plan, clear Biodiversity Net Gain processes and a sector‑leading Local Nature Recovery Strategy the local planning authority is well‑placed to deliver on its commitment to protecting and enhancing the natural environment on the beautiful and ecologically unique Isle of Wight.

An opportunity has arisen at this exciting time for a positive and ambitious person to work within Planning Services as a Planning Ecology Officer supporting the Senior Planning Ecology Officer.

Responsibilities

They will work together to meet the Council’s biodiversity duty and achieve the best outcomes by:

• Facilitating nature‑positive and development
• Giving professional ecological advice by reviewing and commenting on planning applications
• Implementing Biodiversity Net Gain processes
• Contributing to the delivery of the Island’s Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS)
• Engaging with all stakeholders in the planning process as necessary
• Providing advice on all aspects of ecology within the planning process

The successful candidate will have the ability to hit the ground running and to pick up their own caseload, carrying out investigations and writing reports. This is a role where you must be able to communicate clearly and liaise with a wide range of stakeholders.

The Senior Planning Ecology Officer said “I love that my role helps ensure that the right development is in the right place, that legally protected species and habitats are not harmed. I am passionate about making sure that new development includes space for nature and that people benefit from this too. I’s so lucky to be supported by such a knowledgeable and friendly team.”

Contact

For further information or an informal discussion, please contact Carolyn Herbert, Senior Planning Ecologist, [e-mail] or Sarah Wilkinson, Planning Development Manager, [e-mail].

Benefits

• Annual leave entitlement of 32 days p/a PLUS public holidays!
• Local Government pension scheme
• Discounted Solent ferry travel
• Island bus network discount
• Cycle to work scheme
• Staff parking permit scheme
• Discounted island sports & leasa gym membership
• National and local discounts & benefits schemes
• Relocation scheme of up to £8,000 may be available for some roles (subject to criteria)
• Travel allowance may be available if commuting from the mainland (subject to criteria)