Overview
Ecologist Officer
2 Year Fixed Term 37 hours per week (P/T considered)
Salary: £40,174 - £43,236 (exceptional performance points up to £44,472)
Based in Lyndhurst, combined with home working
What you’ll be doing
* Primarily covering New Forest District (outside of the National Park), you will, with support from the Lead and Senior Ecologist: Provide specialist ecological advice to the Development Management Team and provide consultation responses to planning applications
* Have experience of assessing development proposals and their impacts on biodiversity and be willing to work constructively with developers
* Review, develop, implement and monitor biodiversity net gain strategies
* Contribute to policy and guidance documents
* Advise on planning applications and masterplans
* Support recreation mitigation and green infrastructure initiatives
* Monitor ecological commitments and biodiversity net gain delivery reporting on this to Central Government and as part of enhanced Biodiversity Duty
* Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to manage existing pressures on our highly designated sites and valuable habitats / species
* You will be proficient in MS Word and Excel
* You will have a valid driving licence and ability to meet the travel requirements of the role
* You will have the ability to manage workload and contribute effectively to a team and have strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage a range of audiences
What you’ll bring
* Degree (or equivalent) in ecology or a related subject
* Substantial ecological experience, ideally in a planning/development context
* Strong understanding of UK ecology, legislation, and habitat and species survey methods and mitigation strategies
* Excellent communication and report-writing skills and the ability to respond confidently in a variety of situations.
* Ability to interpret technical documents and influence ecological outcomes including ensuring that ecological commitments made through the planning process, including biodiversity net gain, are implemented and reported upon.
What’s in it for you?
* 28 days annual leave
* Local Government Pension Scheme and AVC provision - Council contribute 18.4% of your pensionable pay each month
* Hybrid Working and free on-site parking
* Professional development support and payment of relevant professional subscription fees and licences
* Retail Discounts and Cycle to Work scheme which could save you around 40% on cycles and accessories
* Employee Assistance Programme (free 24 hour legal, financial and personal advice for employees).
About us
New Forest District Council is one of the largest districts in the country, with six towns and close links to neighbouring conurbations. We foster a supportive, inclusive, and forward-thinking work culture, where every employee is valued and encouraged to grow. We actively promote work-life balance and welcome applications for part-time or job share arrangements.
We are proud of our values, please watch this short video to find out more.LEAF Learning Empathy Ambition Fairness (youtube.com)
Ready to apply?
Send your CV and a covering letter explaining why you’re the right fit to hr.admin@nfdc.gov.uk.
For an informal chat, contact Chris Hodsman at 02380 285747 or chris.hodsman@nfdc.gov.uk.
Closing date
Closing date: 28th September 2025
Interview Date: Monday 6th October 2025
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