We are seeking a Senior Ecologist – Housing to join a Local Authority in the East Midlands, supporting the Planning Service by providing expert ecological advice and leading on the delivery of Biodiversity Net Gain across the borough.


Contract Length: 3-6 Months
Rate: Negotiable (Inside IR35)
Location: Hybrid (2–3 days per week on site)
Key Responsibilities:
* Provide professional ecological advice on the integration of biodiversity within development projects
*Ensure a consistent and effective approach to the implementation of Biodiversity Net Gain across the service
*Advise planning applicants and case officers within statutory timescales to ensure no net loss of biodiversity
*Monitor delivery of Biodiversity Net Gain against approved plans and support Planning Enforcement investigations where required
*Maintain records, undertake surveys, and monitor the condition of Local Wildlife Sites (LWS)
*Act to conserve and enhance sites of nature conservation importance across the borough
*Commission and manage contractors delivering environmental and ecological surveys
*Prepare and implement habitat creation schemes and management plans
*Prepare and present reports to relevant Council Committees on ecology and biodiversity matters
*Liaise with the County Council regarding ecological data collection and oversee the Service Level Agreement with the Environmental Records Centre
*Work collaboratively with internal teams, Town and Parish Councils, and external agencies on ecology-related matters
*Contribute to service improvement and customer satisfaction, ensuring performance standards are met
*Ensure secure management of information in line with Council policies
Requirements:
*Substantial experience in ecology, biodiversity, or a related environmental discipline
*Strong knowledge of planning policy, Biodiversity Net Gain, and relevant environmental legislation
*Proven experience providing professional ecological advice within a local authority or similar environment
*Experience managing ecological surveys, contractors, and habitat management schemes
*Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills
If interested, please apply with your most up-to-date CV and a member of the team will be in contact if suitable.