The successful postholder is eligible for a Retention Payment of (agreed on a recurring annual basis) £3,000 split into 2 separate payments once eligible. Kirklees Council has an exciting opportunity for a lead Biodiversity Officer / Ecologist to join the Development Management team based in Huddersfield (Hybrid – home and office work). You will be working on a full-time, permanent basis and in return, you will receive a competitive salary, generous leave entitlement, and flexible working, amongst other things. About the post This is an exciting time to join the Kirklees Council Development Management team. Our Kirklees Local Plan is currently being updated and you will have an opportunity to protect and enhance the varied wildlife of this wonderful part of West Yorkshire through the conception and delivery of the Kirklees Local Plan, helping to gather evidence and formulate planning policies for the future. You will also work as part of a small team to provide professional advice, guidance, interpretation and evaluation of pre-planning enquiries, planning applications, and appeals in relation to biodiversity and ecology issues. The ideal candidate will be an experienced individual (to be appointed at Grade 10-11) and will have/is: A relevant qualification in ecology or related subject, and/or experience in the field. Experience of dealing with biodiversity and wildlife conservation in relation to Development Management. Knowledgeable on wildlife law, policy and procedures relating to Development Management Experience in undertaking and interpreting biodiversity net gain assessments including the completion of a Defra based biodiversity metric Strong IT skills to support working with packages such as Word, Excel, and Access as well as specific IT packages. Strong written communication skills to be able to produce clear reports and documentation. Strong numeracy skills to be able to perform accurate financial and arithmetical calculations. Have the ability to demonstrate excellent customer service and excellent interpersonal skills at all times. An excellent team player and works hard to direct and contribute to team goals. The ability to work flexibly including occasional evenings. Knowledge of ecosystem services and interrelationships with other services and departments. Good knowledge of wider sector / external influences. Experience of partnership working. Experience of representing the ecology and biodiversity to external audiences. Membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management If you are interested in this excellent role which gives you the opportunity to use your knowledge and experience to contribute to the forward-thinking Planning and Development Management Service in Kirklees, apply below! This posting may end earlier than the closing date shown if we receive suitable applications. Julia Steadman is the manager for this role, please contact them on 01484 221000 for an informal discussion, or if you need any more information. To apply please click the Apply Now link below.