Location: Wendling Beck, Norfolk (on-site for surveys; flexible remote working for reporting and planning) Duration: 12 months (starting as soon as possible, early 2026 latest) Hours: Part-time, 2–3 days per week (with flexibility during peak survey windows) Salary: Pro rata equivalent to £40,000 FTE (subject to experience) Reports to: Habitat Delivery & Monitoring Manager Supported by: Junior Ecologist (MSc qualified, part-time) About Wendling Beck Wendling Beck is a pioneering nature restoration and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) habitat banking project in Norfolk. The project brings together landowners, academics, eNGOs, infrastructure partners, Norfolk County Council and local stakeholders to restore and enhance habitats across c. 2,000 hectares, delivering measurable biodiversity uplift and environmental resilience. Role Overview We are seeking an experienced Ecologist to provide maternity cover within the Wendling Beck project team for approximately 12 months. This is a hands-on role focused on habitat condition monitoring, adaptive management, and stakeholder coordination, ensuring the project continues to meet its ecological objectives and statutory BNG obligations. You will play a key role in implementing and refining our Habitat Monitoring and Management Plan (HMMP), coordinating survey data, supporting adaptive management decisions, and ensuring high-quality ecological reporting. Key Responsibilities Habitat Monitoring & Condition Assessment Lead seasonal habitat condition and BNG monitoring surveys across a range of habitats (grassland, scrub, watercourse, hedgerow, wetland, woodland, etc.) using UKHab classification and Defra BNG condition assessment protocols. Ensure consistency and accuracy of data collection using the Correo platform (training provided). Coordinate and quality-assure survey data collected by the supporting ecologist and external consultants. Reporting & Data Management Prepare concise and accurate survey summaries, BNG condition reports and HMMP update notes. Manage spatial and ecological data (GIS familiarity beneficial) and ensure integration with internal reporting systems. Track and document habitat changes, management interventions and ecological outcomes. Adaptive Management & HMMP Review Review and refine the existing Habitat Monitoring and Management Plan, identifying opportunities for adaptive management or improved monitoring approaches. Provide informed, evidence-based recommendations for iterative plan updates and management improvements of existing habitat. Advise and input into delivery team strategy for establishment of new habitat areas Stakeholder Communication & Collaboration Work closely with Wendling Beck’s leadership team, land management project manager, graziers, contractors, and partner ecologists. Support clear, open communication that builds understanding, trust and alignment across all parties. Attend site meetings and contribute to decision-making around timing, management, and ecological interventions. Compliance & Assurance Support internal and external ecological audit processes related to BNG and habitat banking. Ensure ecological monitoring and reporting meet project and regulatory standards. Key Skills & Competencies Technical Ecology Strong applied knowledge of UKHab and BNG condition assessment methodologies. Proven ability to plan, undertake and lead ecological and habitat condition surveys. Confidence interpreting and reviewing habitat management plans and adaptive management frameworks. Technology & Data Comfortable using digital tools for data collection, mapping and reporting (Correo experience desirable; training provided). Familiarity with GIS (e.g. QGIS, ArcGIS) advantageous. Competent in Excel and report preparation. Communication & Collaboration Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, able to work effectively with a range of stakeholders from farmers to regulators. Ability to convey ecological concepts clearly and constructively to non-specialists. Strong organisational and time-management skills. Professional Judgement Confidence to challenge and contribute to continuous improvement in ecological management. Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high ecological and reporting standards. Qualifications & Experience Essential: Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related field. Minimum of 5 years professional experience in ecological survey and habitat management. Demonstrable experience with UKHab and BNG metric/condition assessments. Strong written reporting and analytical skills. Valid UK driving licence and ability to work on site as required. Desirable: Postgraduate qualification (e.g. MSc in Ecology, Conservation, Environmental Management). CIEEM membership (Associate or above). Experience with large-scale habitat restoration or BNG delivery projects. GIS skills. Familiarity with the Correo survey platform or similar digital data systems. What We Offer Opportunity to contribute to one of the UK’s most ambitious landscape-scale restoration and BNG projects. Collaborative, supportive working environment with a multi-disciplinary team. Flexible working pattern (2–3 days per week, including seasonal flexibility). Pro rata salary equivalent to £40,000 FTE, dependent on experience. Professional development opportunities including training on Correo and project-specific methodologies.