Senior Ecologist

Somerset Council; Scotland; Hybrid; GBP 36,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading council in Somerset is seeking a Senior Ecologist to support the Ecology Service Manager. This role involves providing ecological advice, reviewing planning applications, and conducting surveys. The position offers flexible working arrangements and opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Generous annual leave

Staff discounts at gyms

Employee assistance programs

Pension scheme

Flexible benefits through salary sacrifice

Discounts via My Staff Shop

Qualifications

• Experience analyzing ecology reports, including Environmental Impact Assessments.
• Understanding of relevant planning policies and wildlife legislation.

Responsibilities

• Reviewing planning applications for ecological impacts.
• Conducting habitats and protected species surveys as needed.
• Advising on ecological requirements for projects.

Skills

Communication

Technical knowledge of protected species

Education

Significant experience in the ecology industry

Job description

Senior Ecologist

Key information

• Permanent role
• Full-time position at 37 hours/week
• Salary: £36,124 to £40,476 per annum
• Location: Taunton
• Closing date: 26 June, 5:59 pm

What will I be doing?

The Senior Ecologist will support the Ecology Service Manager in leading the Somerset Ecology Service (SES), a small team responsible for delivering statutory obligations for Somerset Council. The role involves providing professional ecological advice on planning and ecological matters, including biodiversity net gain and nutrient neutrality. The Senior Ecologist will serve as a key advisor and assessor for one Planning Area, ensuring compliance with legislation and best practices. The role is primarily desk-based but includes fieldwork, occasional survey activities, and opportunities for career development. Flexible remote working is supported, with collaboration encouraged in an office setting, along with team days and training.

Your day-to-day responsibilities will include:

1. Reviewing planning applications and proposed plans for ecological impacts, ensuring compliance with legislation and policies.
2. Liaising with council officers, applicants, stakeholders, and Natural England.
3. Reviewing biodiversity net gain proposals and monitoring habitat creation.
4. Assessing nutrient neutrality mitigation schemes and shadow Habitats Regulations Assessments.
5. Conducting habitats and protected species surveys as needed.
6. Supporting the Ecology Service Manager and team in daily operations.
7. Contributing to national consultations, policies, and guidance on behalf of the council.
8. Representing the council in planning appeal hearings or inquiries when required.
9. Advising on ecological requirements for projects, including site assessments.
10. Engaging in strategic development and research to enhance the ecology service.
11. Developing environmental planning and design tools.

What kind of experience or qualifications do I need?

We offer ongoing support, training, and guidance to help you succeed. It will be advantageous if you:

• Possess technical knowledge of protected species, especially bats, amphibians, reptiles, hazel dormice, and badgers.
• Understand relevant planning policies and wildlife legislation.
• Have experience analyzing ecology reports, including Environmental Impact Assessments.
• Have significant experience in the ecology industry.
• Demonstrate excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

What is in it for me?

We pride ourselves on providing a supportive and rewarding environment, working with passionate colleagues dedicated to improving life in Somerset. Benefits include:

• Flexible working arrangements, including remote work options.
• Generous annual leave with the option to purchase additional leave.
• Staff discounts at gyms and other retail outlets.
• Employee assistance programs and wellbeing services.
• Auto-enrollment in our pension scheme, with optional contributions.
• Flexible benefits through salary sacrifice, including cycles and health screenings.
• Discounts via My Staff Shop for shopping, dining, entertainment, and insurance.

Supporting documents and information

Salary: £36,124 to £40,476 per annum for 37 hours/week.

For an informal chat, contact Sarah Cruickshank, Ecology Service Manager.

Email: [Insert email]

Tel: [Insert phone number]

If you are ready, click the apply button. We look forward to hearing from you.