Are you an experienced ecologist? Are you passionate about the natural environment? Do you like the idea of working with a team of dynamic and like-minded professionals helping to support sustainable development? Who are we looking for? The Development Management Team are responsible for the Council's role as local planning authority, specifically that in relation to planning application, enforcement and related matters. This role is to be the lead in providing specialist biodiversity and ecology advice in relation to those matters. It also ensures the Council can fulfil its biodiversity duty under the Environment Act, where we must have regard to what can be done to conserve and enhance biodiversity across our services. This role also provides leadership and management of the Biodiversity Officer and contributes to an overall effective and efficient delivery of the Council's development management function. What skills, knowledge and abilities do you require for the role? Considerable experience in the field of ecology, biodiversity and related matters and experience in the application of that knowledge within a planning policy / development management context. What do we offer? Competitive salary & pension scheme. Incremental progression subject to satisfactory performance. A friendly, supportive team. Opportunities for continuing professional development. Hybrid working. For more information For more information and an informal chat about opportunities please contact Harriet Peacock About Wealden Wealden District Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. We are committed to maintaining a diverse workforce and an inclusive work environment. We value the differences that people bring from all backgrounds and communities, and all applications will be treated on merit. We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. At Wealden District Council, we are committed to fair, accessible recruitment and supporting colleagues with the adjustments they need to thrive. Disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria are guaranteed an interview. Join a workplace that values inclusion, wellbeing and equal opportunity. Ethical Use of AI in Applications We welcome innovation and do not automatically exclude candidates who use AI tools during the application process. However, we assess each application to ensure the candidate genuinely understands the role and its requirements. AI may be used ethically and responsibly, provided it supports, rather than compromises our core values of integrity, transparency, and fairness. During assessments and interviews, candidates must present their own skills and experience without assistance from others, external resources, or AI, unless explicitly instructed otherwise.