Planning Ecologist
Location: East Devon - Hybrid (1–2 days per week on site)
Contract: 6-month fixed-term contract (potential to extend)
Working Pattern: Approx. 3 days / 22 hours per week (dependent on rate)
Start: ASAP
The Role
We are currently seeking an experienced Planning Ecologist to provide specialist ecological advice in support of the planning process. This role will focus on ensuring ecological considerations, biodiversity, and habitat regulations are fully integrated into planning applications and related planning work.
You will work closely with Planning Officers, Ecology teams, developers, and other stakeholders, providing professional, pragmatic advice in line with national and local policy and environmental legislation.
This is a part-time contract position with flexibility around hybrid or potentially fully remote working, subject to candidate experience and operational requirements.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide specialist ecological advice and consultee responses on planning applications
* Review and assess ecological documentation, including:
* Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs)
* Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs)
* Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) reports and statutory metrics
* Habitat Management and Monitoring Plans
* Support planning officers with Habitat Regulations Assessments (HRAs)
* Provide pre-application ecological advice to influence development design and mitigation strategies
* Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and policy, including the Environment Act, Habitat Regulations, and local and national planning policy
* Work collaboratively across planning, ecology, and related teams to deliver pragmatic, customer-focused outcomes
About You
* Proven experience working as an ecologist within the planning system
* Strong understanding of environmental legislation and planning policy
* Experience reviewing ecological assessments and advising on Biodiversity Net Gain
* Ideally from a Local Authority background
* Confident working independently across varied casework
* Member of CIEEM (or working towards) or equivalent professional body
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Additional Requirements
* Flexible to work on a hybrid basis (1–2 days per week on site)
* Attendance at the office required for induction
* Access to a vehicle and business-class insurance for site visits
* Right to work in the UK