Closing date - 26th October 2025 Interview date - w/c 10th November 2025 Contract Type - Maternity Cover (Temporary) Winchester City Council is looking for a Principal Ecologist & Biodiversity Officer (Maternity Cover) to join the Sustainability and Natural Environment team (SANE), within Winchester City Council. As part of a small ecology team within SANE, you will lead on the delivery of the Authority’s functions and activities with respect to ecology and biodiversity, through the provision of specialised ecological/biodiversity advice and support, and through identifying and delivering strategic needs. The post requires someone who has a high level of ecological knowledge and expertise who is responsible for the provision of professional biodiversity expertise in support of a variety of the council’s functions (including Development Management, design advice to the New Homes Team and strategic planning); to protect, maintain and enhance ecological features of quality at International, National and local levels; and to promote quality spaces within Winchester City and the district. An ability to supervise colleagues, work independently as well as part of a team is essential, as is good organisational skills and an ability to manage your own workload and time. This role will see you come into contact with members of the public, partners, contractors & suppliers, planners and councillors, as well as other sections of the council, so excellent communication skills are a must. Please note you must be able to meet the travel requirements of the post. If you’re looking for an exciting opportunity, then this is the role for you. In return, we offer an excellent package of benefits including: Employer paid health cash plan Salary sacrifice scheme for cars and bikes 26 days annual leave per year rising to 33 days - dependent on length of service 13 days additional flexi leave per year (subject to operational requirements) Option to buy up to 5 days additional annual leave Free parking (during work hours) at any Winchester Park and Ride Membership to the Local Government Pension Scheme Discounts at a range of major high street brands and the two leisure centres in the district Season Ticket loans Excellent working environment Support for continuous professional development For further details please see the job description and person specification on the Winchester City Council careers page. For an informal discussion, please contact Rick Smith, Service Lead - Sustainability and Natural Environment - rsmith@winchester.gov.uk