Overview

Contract Type: Permanent
Working Pattern: Full time
Salary: Grade 11 – £40,777 to £45,091 per annum
Hours per week: 37
Job Category: Other
Vacancy ID: 284724
Employment Location: Green Lane Offices, Spennymoor
Post Number: NE25-104
Number of Posts: 1
Closing Date: 14 September 2025
Interview Date: Wednesday 1 October 2025

Role Overview

We are seeking an individual with strong habitat and species survey skills, experience of the planning system, knowledge of statutory metrics, and the principles of Biodiversity Net Gain.

What is Involved?

  • Support the Environment and Design team in delivering an integrated service across Ecology, Landscape, Heritage, and Archaeology.

  • Provide specialist ecological services across the Council, including:

    • Development management and spatial planning advice

    • Wildlife legislation guidance

    • Project development and land management support

  • Promote the integration of biodiversity issues in line with the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (2006) and the Environment Act (2021).

For an informal discussion, please contact Stuart Priestley, Ecology Manager via email: stuart.priestley@durham.gov.uk

What Will I Need?

  • A Degree in Ecology or a relevant subject.

  • A European Protected Species Licence.

  • Substantial experience in:

    • Habitat and species surveys

    • Condition assessments and site evaluation

  • Excellent knowledge of protected species and UK/international wildlife legislation.

  • Experience of the development management planning system, gained through consultancy, Local Planning Authority, or another relevant route.

Please see the attached Person Specification for the full criteria.

Benefits and Rewards

We offer a generous package to support your wellbeing and career development:

  • Competitive salary and 27 days annual leave, rising to 32 after five years’ continuous local government service.

  • Option to purchase up to 10 additional leave days per year.

  • Flexible working: job sharing, compressed hours, and flexi-time (up to 13 flexi days/year).

  • Hybrid working – home and office mix.

  • Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) with salary sacrifice AVC options.

  • Wellbeing Portal and Employee Assistance Scheme.

  • Wide range of learning & development opportunities, including professional qualifications.

  • Employee Benefits Portal and Lifestyle Savings Scheme (major retailer discounts).

  • Discounted DCC gym membership.

  • Staff networks (Race Equality, Disability, LGBT+, Armed Forces, Carers, Menopause).

  • Trade Union membership.

  • Additional salary sacrifice schemes (e.g., car leasing).

Full details: Rewards and Benefits

Hybrid Working

Our policy is 2 days in the workplace and 3 days remote (pro rata for part-time roles). Managers may vary this, or staff can choose to work fully in-office.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer.

  • We welcome applications from all backgrounds.

  • We are a Disability Confident Leader and encourage applications from disabled people.

  • We guarantee interviews for applicants meeting essential criteria who identify as disabled, a care leaver, looked-after young person, or veteran.

Learn more: Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

How to Apply

  • Applications must be submitted online via the North East Jobs portal.

  • CVs will not be accepted.

  • Use the Person Specification section to demonstrate how you meet the essential and desirable criteria.

  • Applications not evidencing essential qualifications/experience will not be shortlisted.

For support, contact the Recruitment Team: RecruitmentNE@durham.gov.uk
Tel: 03000 262727 – Option 4

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