Senior Natural Environment Officer – Ecological Planning

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Natural Environment Officer to provide specialist ecological advice on planning applications within a busy local authority team. This contract role will help shape sustainable development across the borough while protecting and enhancing the natural environment.

Key responsibilities

• Deliver expert ecological advice on planning applications and related documentation.
• Review ecological surveys, mitigation strategies and Biodiversity Net Gain submissions.
• Advise planning officers, developers and stakeholders on wildlife legislation and planning policy.
• Ensure developments comply with environmental legislation and local planning policy.
• Promote biodiversity enhancement through the planning process.

Required profile

• Previous experience as an Ecologist or Natural Environment Officer within a local authority.
• Proven track record commenting on planning applications.
• Strong knowledge of ecology, wildlife legislation and planning policy.
• Ability to manage a varied caseload and communicate confidently with stakeholders.

Required skills

• Ecological survey assessment
• Biodiversity Net Gain evaluation
• Interpretation of wildlife legislation

What we offer

• Full‑time contract position (temporary) with competitive hourly rate.
• Opportunity to influence sustainable development across the borough.
• Collaborative team environment within a busy planning department.