Ecologist

Ecologist – Make a Real Impact on Nature Recovery!

Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week
Salary: £31,537 to £42,839 per annum. This is a career graded post and progression through the grades is dependent on criteria as outlined in the Job Profile.

About us

Picture this: an ambitious and dynamic organisation, focused on supporting local communities, looking after the environment and creating a thriving economy. Welcome to Charnwood Borough Council! We’re not just any council – we take pride in our work and our borough, deliver outstanding customer service and work together with pace and positivity.

At Charnwood, we’re proud to be an ambitious, forward-thinking organisation committed to supporting communities, protecting our environment, and driving sustainable growth. Our borough blends vibrant towns with rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

Why Charnwood?

Charnwood is a thriving borough in the heart of the East Midlands, home to 184,000 residents and a rich mix of market towns and conservation villages. With over 2,500 planning applications processed annually, our Development Management team plays a vital role in shaping the borough’s future—balancing growth with environmental stewardship.

The Role

Are you passionate about biodiversity and ready to shape the future of ecological planning? We’re looking for a skilled and driven Senior Ecologist to join our growing Natural and Built Environment Team. This is your chance to play a key role in delivering nature recovery across a diverse and vibrant borough. You’ll be:

• Providing expert ecological advice throughout the planning process – from pre-application to condition discharge and monitoring biodiversity net gain.
• Ensuring the Council meets its duties under the Environment Act 2021.
• Collaborating with a wide range of stakeholders – planners, developers, agents, consultants, environmental groups, and councillors.
• Supporting the development of our Biodiversity Strategy and Supplementary Planning Document.

This is a career-graded role, offering clear progression opportunities in a supportive and forward-thinking environment.

About You

We are looking for a skilled Ecologist who has:

• A degree or diploma in a relevant ecological or environmental discipline.
• Significant experience in ecology, ideally within the planning system.
• A practical understanding of ecological protection and enhancement.

What We Offer

• Generous annual leave of between 35.5 and 40.5 days (depending upon length of service), inclusive of bank holidays
• Agile working opportunities
• Professional development support
• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme
• Most services are closed over Christmas
• A welcoming, inclusive, and diverse workplace culture
• Access to free parking

Be You

At Charnwood, we believe in the strength of a diverse and inclusive workforce and recognise and celebrate people’s individual strengths and talents. Our commitment to diversity makes our services better, more inclusive, and more effective.

We’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and a Gold Award holder under the Armed Forces Covenant. Our staff are actively involved in shaping our workplace through forums and working groups focused on wellbeing and equality.

Ready to Make an Impact?

Help us support the biodiversity of Charnwood’s natural environment. Join us in shaping the future of Charnwood – If you share our values and have the skills we need, apply without delay!

Closing Date: 18 December 25