Ecologist/Senior Ecologist (Two opportunities available 1 x Permanent, 1 x Maternity Cover – up to 12 months) £35,180- £47,428 per annum, dependent upon experience Both roles are full time Test Valley offers a huge diversity of wildlife and habitats, with SACs, SPAS, RAMSARS, SINCs and the North Wessex Downs National Landscape, alongside ancient and wet woodland, heathland, chalk downland and the fantastic River Test itself, one of Europe’s finest chalk stream environments. We have Pipistrelles, Bechstein's and Barbastelle bats, Dormice, Great Crested Newts and Otters, alongside a diversity of chalk downland butterflies and more. It’s every Ecologists dream! What’s more, this is an exciting time for an ambitious Council, which is taking forward town centre regeneration schemes for Romsey and Andover. There will be plenty of opportunity to learn and get involved in larger-scale projects, as we strive to provide a high quality built and natural environment for our residents, businesses, and visitors. We do this by balancing the need for new development in a way that it sympathetic to, and reflective of, the outstanding natural environment that the borough is renowned for. Working alongside our high-profile Development Management teams, you’ll provide professional ecological advice on a wide range of development schemes as well as supporting the work of other teams across the Council, and giving guidance to Councillors, a range of stakeholders and members of the public. We are looking for two ecologists, possessing a relevant degree or equivalent level of experience, that can provide specialist advice on development proposals and projects, policy and other matters where ecological advice is required. We are interested to hear from people with a range of experience and knowledge in ecology work, as these are career graded posts, which means there is some flexibility in terms of how we can recruit to these roles. Above all, you’ll have a passion for ecology and the environment, be able to work in a constructive, collaborative and proactive way, with a readiness to learn and, with support, to develop a successful career in this increasingly important area of local government. Both roles offer an opportunity to show off your skills and share your fresh thinking, in an organisation that is open to developing new and improved ways of working, and is ready to help you make a positive impact in the environment of Test Valley. In return, you'll receive a competitive salary, and a great place to work with supportive colleagues. The Council actively promotes a good work/life balance, including agile working practices and flexible working hours. We encourage continuous learning and development and have a programme of events designed to support employee wellbeing. Our full package of employment benefits also includes a generous holiday entitlement, local government pension scheme, free on-site parking and discounted leisure facilities. For further information on what we can offer you, please visit: https://www.testvalley.gov.uk/aboutyourcouncil/a-great-place-to-work/employee-benefits. We are a progressive council that places great importance on living our values and behaviours in terms of how we work and deliver our services. For more information on our values and behaviours, and why it is a great to work at Test Valley Borough Council, please, visit our website: https://www.testvalley.gov.uk/aboutyourcouncil/a-great-place-to-work. For an informal discussion about the roles, please contact Tom Crutchfield, Landscape and Ecology Team Leader on 01264 368079. Applications close: Sunday 18th May