Description Salary: £44,208 - £50,424 per annum Grade: F Hours: 37hrs per week Permanent Contract About Us: Thurrock Council is on an exciting journey to enhance our planning services, and we are making significant strides. Following a comprehensive review by the Planning Advisory Service, we have implemented numerous improvements that have been recognised as going "above and beyond" the initial recommendations. We are committed to continuing this progress and are looking for passionate individuals to join our team and contribute to our mission. About the Role Thurrock Council is committed to protecting and enhancing the borough's rich natural environment. As an Ecology Officer, you will play a vital role in ensuring ecological assets, including trees, are managed and monitored to the highest standards. By strategically implementing a customer-focused ecological service, you will ensure Thurrock’s environment is preserved and enhanced for future generations. In collaboration with others, you will lead on the delivery of ecological initiatives, provide expert advice, and drive sustainable practices across the borough. This is an exciting opportunity to make a tangible difference in shaping Thurrock's green spaces and ecological future. Key Responsibilities Work collaboratively with the Landscape Officer to ensure that professional best practices for ecology and trees are implemented, providing expert advice and guidance to clients, contractors, and other stakeholders involved in the urban environment. Lead or contribute to project works relating to ecology and trees, ensuring key areas within the borough are developed in line with ecological and environmental best practice principles. Develop and deliver ecological management plans for sites within the borough, ensuring successful management regimes with regular monitoring and review periods. Provide statutory advice on the impact of nature conservation for planning applications and site management changes, promoting biodiversity through council planning policies, including the Urban Greening Factor and Biodiversity Net Gain requirements under the Environment Act. Review and discharge ecological conditions related to ecological enhancements in development projects. Identify and secure funding from internal and external sources to support the management and enhancement of ecological sites, trees, and conservation initiatives within the borough. Represent the Council by providing expert ecological advice at meetings, working parties, and events, including evenings and weekends as required. Lead on and contribute to a range of development projects, including woodland management plans, ecological surveys, and conservation strategies. Ensure effective administration and performance monitoring of ecological services, including robust budget management, quality assurance, and prompt resolution of customer enquiries and complaints. Skills and Experience Required Strong knowledge and experience in ecological management, conservation, and arboriculture, with a focus on delivering sustainable outcomes. Proven ability to develop and implement ecological management plans, monitor performance, and ensure adherence to best practices. Expertise in statutory planning advice related to ecology, including Biodiversity Net Gain and Urban Greening policies. Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with experience working collaboratively across teams and external organisations. Strong project management skills, with the ability to deliver projects on time, within budget, and to a high standard. Experience in securing funding for ecological and conservation projects. Why Join Thurrock Council? The Council Planning function is making fantastic progress. We have implemented tangible measures for real improvements. Join us in building a better future for Thurrock. Help us continue to make a difference. This is a unique opportunity to lead ecological and environmental initiatives in a thriving borough, working alongside a dedicated team to deliver meaningful change. Thurrock Council is committed to fostering a sustainable future, and your work will directly contribute to the enhancement and protection of our natural environment. What We Offer: A dynamic and supportive work environment. Professional growth opportunities. The chance to make a tangible impact on the community. Recognition and appreciation for your contributions. Our Culture: At Thurrock Council, we believe in fostering a culture of inclusivity, innovation, and collaboration. We value diversity and strive to create an environment where every team member feels empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. Our commitment to continuous improvement and excellence drives us to support each other and celebrate our successes together. Advert Closing Date: Redeployment Only: 15th May 2025 Internal & External Applications: 1st June 2025 Interview Date: TBC For further information, please contact Ashley Baldwin at ashley.baldwin@thurrock.gov.uk To view the Job Profile and Person Specification, please follow the link below: Ecology_Officer_Job_Profile.pdf “If you encounter an error message when opening the Job Profile link please refresh the error page”