Senior Ecologist Advisor for Planning & Biodiversity

Vivid Resourcing Ltd; England; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 101,000; Full time

Job summary

Vivid Resourcing Ltd is seeking an experienced Principal Ecologist on an interim basis in Leicestershire to provide senior ecological advice across planning, development and biodiversity net gain implementation.

The role acts as the authority’s lead on ecological matters, advising planning officers and internal teams, reviewing assessments and supporting junior staff in a public sector setting.

Qualifications

• Degree in ecology, environmental science or related discipline.
• Full membership of CIEEM, or eligible to apply.
• Substantial experience as an ecologist, with experience matched to a Principal level.
• Strong knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy and the biodiversity net gain framework.
• Experience reviewing or preparing ecological assessments.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills, including report writing.
• Desirable: local authority or planning advisory experience; Statutory Biodiversity Metric; Habitats Regulations Assessment; knowledge of Leicestershire habitats; supervising/mentoring junior ecologists.

Responsibilities

• Provide senior ecological advice to planning officers and wider council services.
• Review ecological impact assessments, surveys and mitigation proposals submitted with planning applications.
• Advise on protected species, designated sites, priority habitats and relevant legislation.
• Support the implementation and monitoring of biodiversity net gain, including review of metric calculations and habitat management plans.
• Respond to planning consultations and prepare clear written ecological recommendations.
• Advise on ecological matters linked to local plan work, green infrastructure and land management.
• Liaise with developers, consultants, statutory bodies, wildlife organisations and community groups.
• Support the council’s biodiversity and nature recovery objectives.
• Provide guidance and review support to junior colleagues where required.
• Contribute to the preparation of reports, policy guidance and technical briefings.

Education

Degree in ecology or environmental science

Full membership of CIEEM or eligibility to apply

Job description

Vivid Resourcing Ltd is seeking an experienced Principal Ecologist on an interim basis in Leicestershire to provide senior ecological advice across planning, development and biodiversity net gain implementation.

The role acts as the authority’s lead on ecological matters, advising planning officers and internal teams, reviewing assessments and supporting junior staff in a public sector setting.