Job description

4-5 months contract with a Local Authority

Job Summary:

• The Senior Ecologist will conserve and enhance Charnwood Borough’s ecology by providing expert advice on planning applications, implementing biodiversity projects, and ensuring compliance with statutory and local biodiversity policies.

• The role involves monitoring Local Wildlife Sites (LWS), overseeing Biodiversity Net Gain delivery, liaising with stakeholders, commissioning surveys, preparing reports for committees, and supporting the continuous improvement of ecological services.

Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):

• Advise on biodiversity integration within development projects and ensure consistent delivery of Biodiversity Net Gain.

• Provide expert ecological advice to planning officers and applicants in line with statutory requirements and local policy.

• Monitor and enforce Biodiversity Net Gain plans, liaising with enforcement teams as needed.

• Maintain and survey Local Wildlife Sites, ensuring conservation and enhancement of habitats.

• Commission and manage ecological surveys and contractors, preparing management plans and habitat creation schemes.

• Prepare and present ecological reports to Council Committees and liaise with external agencies.

• Support data collection and maintenance for the Leicester and Rutland Environmental Record Centre.

• Contribute to customer service excellence and achievement of service objectives.

• Undertake additional duties as required, ensuring information is managed securely.

Skills/Experience:

• Strong knowledge of UK ecology, biodiversity, and habitat management.

• Experience with Biodiversity Net Gain and planning policy implementation.

• Competence in ecological surveying, monitoring, and reporting.

• Ability to provide professional advice to planning officers and developers.

• Experience commissioning and managing contractors and volunteers.

• Excellent communication skills, including report writing and presentation.

• Ability to liaise effectively with multiple stakeholders (Council divisions, agencies, community groups).

• Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and ability to meet deadlines.

• Full UK driving licence required.

Additional Information:

• The closing date: 12/02/2026.

• Hours: 37.5 per week, 2 days in office, remainder flexible/WFH.

• Location: Council Offices, Southfield Road, Loughborough, Leicestershire.

• PAYE: £41.69/hr; Limited/Umbrella: £55.00/hr.