Ecologist

The Role

We are seeking an experienced Ecologist to join our growing team of five ecologists working within the Council’s Planning Service.

You will provide specialist advice throughout all stages of the development management and strategic planning process. You will review planning applications and assist with policy development, working with colleagues across the Planning Service to secure the best outcomes for wildlife in contexts ranging from housing schemes and industrial development to large minerals sites. You will also provide advice about ecological matters to other services in the Council, and work with landowners to develop and oversee a supply of habitat banks in Northumberland.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a friendly and supportive team, working in a large and diverse county with a stunning coastline and extensive uplands rich in important habitats and species. As the Planning Service begins work on a new Local Plan with increased housing targets and ambitious plans for economic growth, you will play a key role in protecting important habitats and species and securing significant opportunities for nature recovery.

Essential requirements

• You will have a degree in Ecology or a related subject and detailed understanding of nature conservation legislation, the land use planning system and biodiversity net gain.
• You will understand how to secure the best outcomes for wildlife through the planning system and will be confident in identifying a range of habitats and species and in assessing their significance.
• You will be a good communicator who is able to influence a range of stakeholders and be confident in managing a busy caseload and competing priorities.
• A full driving licence is required.

Applications will be assessed against the essential criteria in the Person Specification. Please use your supporting information to demonstrate how your skills, knowledge and experience meet these requirements.

For further information about this vacancy, please contact David Feige, Environment and Design Team Manager & County Ecologist on 0777 429 5253 for an informal discussion.

Northumberland County Council’s (NCC) vision is ‘Land of Great Opportunities’, for current and future generations. We believe there is no better place to live and work.

For further information about working for NCC, please visit our website here.

Why choose us?

We have some outstanding benefits and perks to offer you, including:

• 26 days annual leave plus public/bank holidays, rising to 31 days after 5 years of service (pro rata for part-time employees)
• Automatic enrolment into the Local Government Pension Scheme
• Flexi scheme (if applicable) – up to 2 days flexible leave available per month (pro rata for part-time employees)