Senior Ecologist

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

Job summary

Somerset County Council is seeking a Senior Ecologist to provide ecological advice and lead assessments for planning applications. The role involves desk-based work and field surveys, with opportunities for collaboration and career development. Join a supportive environment focused on improving Somerset's ecology.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Generous annual leave

Gym discounts

Comprehensive pension scheme

Cycle-to-work schemes

Qualifications

• Significant experience in the ecology sector.
• Understanding of national planning policies and wildlife legislation.

Responsibilities

• Reviewing planning applications for ecological impacts.
• Conducting botanical and habitat surveys.
• Advising on ecological requirements for projects.

Skills

Communication

Technical knowledge of protected species

Job description

The Senior Ecologist will assist the Ecology Service Manager, leading the Somerset Ecology Service (SES), a team responsible for delivering the statutory obligations of 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 of Somerset, ensuring compliance with legislation and best practices. While primarily desk-based, the role includes leading and participating in ecological fieldwork. It offers flexible remote working with opportunities for collaboration, surveys, team activities, and career development.

Your typical responsibilities will include:

1. Reviewing and assessing planning applications and proposals for ecological impacts.
2. Liaising with council officers, applicants, stakeholders, and Natural England.
3. Reviewing Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) proposals and monitoring habitat creation.
4. Assessing nutrient neutrality mitigation schemes and shadow Habitat Regulations Assessments (HRA).
5. Undertaking Habitats Regulations Assessments.
6. Supporting the Ecology Service Manager and team in daily operations.
7. Contributing to responses on national consultations, policies, or guidance.
8. Conducting botanical, habitat, and protected species surveys.
9. Representing the Council at planning appeal hearings or inquiries as needed.
10. Advising on ecological requirements for projects, including site work.
11. Participating in strategic development and research to enhance the ecology service.
12. Developing environmental planning and design tools.

Qualifications and Experience Needed

We support ongoing training and development. Ideally, you will:

1. Possess technical knowledge of protected species such as bats, amphibians, reptiles, hazel dormice, and badgers.
2. Understand relevant national planning policies and wildlife legislation.
3. Have experience analyzing ecology reports, including Environmental Impact Assessments.
4. Bring significant experience in the ecology sector.
5. Communicate effectively with diverse audiences, both verbally and in writing.

What We Offer

Join us in a supportive, rewarding environment committed to improving Somerset's quality of life. We provide excellent training, development, and employee benefits, including:

• Flexible working arrangements, including remote work.
• Generous annual leave with options to purchase additional days.
• Gym discounts and wellbeing services.
• Auto-enrollment into a comprehensive pension scheme with optional contributions.
• Flexible benefits such as cycle-to-work schemes and health screenings.
• Discounts through My Staff Shop on various products and services.

Additional Information

The salary range is £36,124 to £40,476 per annum for a 37-hour week. For an informal discussion, contact Sarah Cruickshank, Ecology Service Manager. Ready to apply? Click the apply button. We look forward to your application.

Supporting Documents

Please review any attached documents before submitting your application.