We are seeking a Senior Ecologist - Housing to join a Local Authority in the East Midlands, supporting the Planning Service by providing expert ecological advice and leading on the delivery of Biodiversity Net Gain across the borough.
Contract Length: 3-6 Months
Rate: Negotiable (Inside IR35)
Location: Hybrid (2-3 days per week on site)
Key Responsibilities:
* Provide professional ecological advice on the integration of biodiversity within development projects
* Ensure a consistent and effective approach to the implementation of Biodiversity Net Gain across the service
* Advise planning applicants and case officers within statutory timescales to ensure no net loss of biodiversity
* Monitor delivery of Biodiversity Net Gain against approved plans and support Planning Enforcement investigations where required
* Maintain records, undertake surveys, and monitor the condition of Local Wildlife Sites (LWS)
* Act to conserve and enhance sites of nature conservation importance across the borough
* Commission and manage contractors delivering environmental and ecological surveys
* Prepare and implement habitat creation schemes and management plans
* Prepare and present reports to relevant Council Committees on ecology and biodiversity matters
* Liaise with the County Council regarding ecological data collection and oversee the Service Level Agreement with the Environmental Records Centre
* Work collaboratively with internal teams, Town and Parish Councils, and external agencies on ecology-related matters
* Contribute to service improvement and customer satisfaction, ensuring performance standards are met
* Ensure secure management of information in line with Council policies
Requirements:
* Substantial experience in ecology, biodiversity, or a related environmental discipline
* Strong knowledge of planning policy, Biodiversity Net Gain, and relevant environmental legislation
* Proven experience providing professional ecological advice within a local authority or similar environment
* Experience managing ecological surveys, contractors, and habitat management schemes
* Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills
If interested, please apply with your most up-to-date CV and a member of the team will be in contact if suitable.