Overview

1 x FTE permanent /  £29,254 – £31,692 per annum 

Eastleigh Borough Council is an ambitious and progressive council. We are recognised for our innovation and achievements, whilst delivering high quality service to our customers and the community.   At Eastleigh, enhancing and protecting our environment is an area of major strategic importance as this makes up one of our key corporate priorities.   Eastleigh is an area with considerable development potential and has the challenge of enabling development whilst protecting a quality landscape and habitats of significant importance to wildlife at a national and international level.

We are looking for an experienced Ecologist to work in the Service Delivery Directorate to support the delivery of the Council’s corporate priorities.   If you have a good understanding of practical wildlife conservation, can oversee the implementation of Eastleigh’s Biodiversity Action Plan and work with fellow planning professionals and developers in protecting and mitigating the effects of development upon wildlife then this  could be the job for you.

You will need demonstrable experience of commissioning surveys and reports, providing advice on a variety of biodiversity matters, including Habitat Regulations and Sustainable Drainage issues and providing consultee advice on planning applications.  The post holder will represent the Council at various external forums, to share information and enable collaborative working, including working with adjacent authorities and statutory/non-statutory partners.   You will also need the knowledge, skills and confidence to be able to represent the Council on ecological matters in court for planning appeals etc.

It is essential that you are able to understand, interpret and communicate European and British law related to ecology and provide and maintain up-to-date ecological data to ensure compliance with legal requirements and the NPPF.

The successful candidate will need to be educated to degree level in a relevant subject.  A good understanding of ecological survey and monitoring methodologies and mitigation measures is also required as are excellent report writing skills with a focus on quality and attention to detail.

Membership of a relevant professional body or working towards membership is desirable.

If you are excited by this opportunity and feel you have the skills, experience and attitude we are looking for we would love to hear from you. At Eastleigh, we are committed to supporting and developing all our staff and creating a culture that is inclusive, innovative and enjoyable. We offer a good range of benefits and facilities which include:

  • Local Government pension scheme (defined benefits scheme)
  • Up to 27 days annual leave (depending on local government service)
  • Flexible working scheme
  • Subsidised train travel
  • Excellent working environment
  • Support for continuous professional development
  • Good work life balance
  • Childcare voucher scheme (subject to Government amendments)
  • Payment of professional or registration fees where these are required

For further information and to apply please visit www.hampshirejobs.org.uk

For an informal discussion regarding this role please contact Bret Willers, Lead Specialist Environment, on 023 8068 8324.