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- Tasks: Join our team to assess biodiversity impacts from planning applications and promote ecological enhancements.
- Company: Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils serve 190,000 residents, committed to a sustainable environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, a competitive pension scheme, wellbeing support, and hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in protecting the environment while developing your skills in a supportive culture.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and awareness of ecological assessments required.
- Other info: DBS checks will be necessary for this role; apply even if you don't meet all requirements!
The predicted salary is between 26300 - 29500 £ per year.
Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils are looking to recruit an Assistant Ecologist to join our team based in Ipswich, Suffolk. You will join us on a full time, permanent basis. The successful candidate will earn a competitive salary of £30,559 - £35,235 per annum (pro rata for part time). Full time, part time and job share opportunities will be considered.
What we are looking for
We are looking for an Assistant Ecologist to join our Planning Service to help assess the impacts on biodiversity arising from planning applications. The successful person will share our values, commitment, and motivation to make a difference for our residents, clients, and communities.
About the role
This is an exciting opportunity to join our team who are passionate about protecting, improving and making a real difference to the district's rich environment. You will take responsibility for:
- promoting the delivery of measurable Biodiversity Net Gain on planning applications
- undertaking detailed reviews of ecological surveys and reports (e.g., Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Bat Surveys, Great Crested Newt Assessments) submitted with planning applications
- identifying gaps in the ecological information provided and requesting additional surveys, biodiversity enhancements, mitigation strategies, or licenses where necessary
- recommending appropriate ecological mitigation measures, such as wildlife sensitive lighting
- advising on the legal and planning requirements for protected species, habitats, and designated sites
- providing clear, evidence-based recommendations to Planning Officers, Developers, and other stakeholders through formal consultation responses
- collaborating with developers and consultants to ensure ecological opportunities are integrated into development designs
- helping to monitor compliance with agreed conditions and provide ongoing advice for adaptive management and long-term ecological outcomes
A full UK driver license is required.
About you
To be successful in this role we are looking for someone who:
- is educated to Bachelor's Degree level in a relevant subject, or equivalent with evidence of continuing professional development with membership of or working towards qualifying membership of a relevant professional body e.g. CIEEM
- has an awareness of relevant development management processes, ecological assessments and evaluation, habitat and protected and priority species identification and survey techniques; and related office and site-based practices and procedures
- can make informed and independent decisions, is pro-active in their approach and who shows initiative to develop new ideas
- can manage workload effectively to meet strict deadlines
- is computer literate with experience in GIS systems and using databases
- has effective analytical, communication, and report-writing skills
About us
Working together across our Councils and with our partners in the public, private and voluntary sectors, we provide excellent services to our 190,000 residents across Babergh and Mid Suffolk. We are proud of the role we play in creating the environment, economy, and communities for our districts. We believe that the heart of Suffolk is an incredibly special place to live and work. With picturesque market towns, 60 conservation areas and with two National Landscapes within our districts, it is little wonder that we are consistently within the top 50 places to live in the UK.
Benefits of working for us
- Great opportunities for learning and development.
- Generous leave entitlement (equivalent to 26 days a year, increasing to 31 days after 5 years’ service, plus bank holidays).
- Competitive Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Wellbeing Support Program
- Employee Assist Program
- Health Care Options
Our ways of working
Work is what we do, not where we go! We are committed to working in a more Hybrid way, with a mix of office, home, and remote based working (Business needs permitting). This has worked well for us and is something we will be continuing with. We are committed to supporting equality and diversity, Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils provide opportunity and ambition for all, supporting and enabling our people to deliver the best possible service for our residents.
Closing date: 5pm, 17 June 2025
If you think you have what it takes to be successful in this Assistant Ecologist role, even if you don’t meet all the requirements, please apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.
This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.
Assistant Ecologist employer: Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Council
Contact Detail:
Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Ecologist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local biodiversity and ecological issues in Babergh and Mid Suffolk. Understanding the specific challenges and opportunities in the area will help you demonstrate your commitment to the role and show that you're proactive about making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the ecology field, especially those who have experience with local councils or similar organisations. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to connect with potential colleagues and gain insights into the role and its requirements.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your GIS skills and any relevant software used for ecological assessments. Being proficient in these tools will not only enhance your application but also prepare you for the technical aspects of the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences with ecological assessments and how you've contributed to biodiversity projects. Be ready to provide examples of your analytical skills and decision-making processes during interviews to showcase your suitability for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Ecologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the Assistant Ecologist role. Focus on your educational background, any ecological assessments you've conducted, and your familiarity with biodiversity and planning processes.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for ecology and your commitment to making a difference in the community. Mention specific examples of your work or projects that demonstrate your ability to assess ecological impacts and collaborate with stakeholders.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, emphasise your analytical, communication, and report-writing skills. Mention your experience with GIS systems and databases, as these are crucial for the role. Be sure to provide examples of how you've used these skills in previous positions.
Show Enthusiasm for the Role: Convey your enthusiasm for the position and the values of Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils. Explain why you want to work in this role and how you can contribute to their mission of protecting and improving the environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Council
✨Show Your Passion for Ecology
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for ecology and biodiversity during the interview. Share specific examples of projects or experiences that highlight your commitment to environmental protection and improvement.
✨Demonstrate Relevant Knowledge
Be prepared to discuss your understanding of ecological assessments, planning processes, and relevant legislation. Familiarise yourself with common surveys like Bat Surveys and Great Crested Newt Assessments, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Highlight Your Analytical Skills
Since the role requires effective analytical skills, be ready to provide examples of how you've used data analysis in past projects. Discuss any experience you have with GIS systems and databases, as this will be beneficial.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewers about the team, ongoing projects, or the council's approach to biodiversity. This shows your interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
