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- Tasks: Shape the future of Devon’s wildlife and landscapes through ecological planning and collaboration.
- Company: Join Devon County Council's passionate Natural Environment Team.
- Benefits: Make a real impact while working in one of the UK's most beautiful counties.
- Why this job: Be part of exciting initiatives that enhance nature and biodiversity.
- Qualifications: Experience in ecology, planning, and strong networking skills required.
- Other info: Opportunity to train and support junior team members while contributing to wildlife projects.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you passionate about protecting and enhancing nature? We’re looking for a highly motivated and experienced ecologist to join our Natural Environment Team and help shape the future for Devon’s wildlife and landscapes. You’ll be part of the Environmental Sustainability Group, which brings together expertise in climate and sustainability, ecology, heritage, landscape, flood and coastal risk.
Our team leads on exciting initiatives, including:
- Restoration of large quarries across the county to wildlife habitat
- Working with partners to develop strategic approaches to the conservation of greater horseshoes, beavers, dormice and water voles
- Working with Devon Wildlife Trust and the Devon Biodiversity Records Centre to designate and monitor county wildlife sites
- Continuing to roll out Biodiversity Net Gain across Devon
- Working with wildlife experts and partners to finalise and implement the Devon Local Nature Recovery Strategy
- Coordinating the Devon Local Nature Partnership
We provide expert advice within Devon County Council as well as for other Devon Local Planning Authorities, including Dartmoor National Park Authority, and work on a range of projects across the county.
About the Role
Provide specialist ecological planning advice, working closely with planners, developers, consultants, Natural England, NGOs, and researchers. Advise on protected and priority species and habitats, quarry restoration schemes, monitoring, Biodiversity Net Gain, and develop guidance and strategies. Offer specialist ecological advice within Devon County Council, including on infrastructure schemes (e.g. roads, cycle routes, waste sites, schools) and estate management. Support and train colleagues and partners, and line manage junior team members. Contribute to wider wildlife projects and partnerships.
Substantial experience of planning and wildlife, including: legislation and policy, survey and impact assessments, mitigation and monitoring, Biodiversity Net Gain, HRA, European Protected Species (particularly bats and dormice). Broad knowledge of species and habitats in Devon, including habitat survey and condition assessment, creation, restoration and management. Strong people and networking skills with experience of collaborative working in the nature sector. EPS licence holder (particularly bats and dormice) or ability to obtain licences quickly. Good botanical knowledge (minimum of FISC level 3 equivalent). Ability to present complex ecological and legislative issues in plain English. Strategic and creative thinker, able to develop and negotiate positive outcomes for wildlife.
Why Devon?
Devon County Council is committed to a green Devon for future generations. Join us and make a lasting impact in one of the UK’s most beautiful and environmentally diverse counties.
Principal Ecologist (Devon County Council) employer: Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management
Contact Detail:
Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Ecologist (Devon County Council)
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with folks in the ecology and environmental sectors. Attend local events, workshops, or even online webinars. The more people you know, the better your chances of hearing about job openings before they’re advertised!
✨Show Off Your Passion
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your passion for nature shine through! Share your experiences and projects that highlight your commitment to wildlife conservation. It’s all about making that personal connection.
✨Tailor Your Approach
Before any interview or networking opportunity, do your homework on Devon County Council and their initiatives. Tailor your conversations to show how your skills align with their goals, especially around biodiversity and ecological planning.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team at Devon County Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Ecologist (Devon County Council)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for nature and ecology shine through. We want to see how much you care about protecting wildlife and enhancing landscapes in Devon. Share personal experiences or projects that highlight your commitment!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Principal Ecologist role. Use keywords from the job description and demonstrate how your skills and experience align with what we’re looking for. This helps us see you as a perfect fit!
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity! Present your qualifications and experiences in a straightforward manner. Avoid jargon where possible and explain complex ecological concepts in plain English. This will help us understand your expertise without getting lost in technical details.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it keeps everything organised on our end, making the process smoother for everyone.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management
✨Know Your Ecology
Brush up on your knowledge of local species and habitats in Devon. Be ready to discuss specific examples of your experience with protected species, like bats and dormice, and how you've contributed to biodiversity initiatives in the past.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience working with various stakeholders, such as planners, developers, and NGOs. Highlight any successful projects where you’ve collaborated to achieve positive outcomes for wildlife.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect questions on ecological planning legislation and policy. Familiarise yourself with Biodiversity Net Gain and habitat restoration schemes, and be prepared to explain these concepts in simple terms.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion
Let your enthusiasm for protecting nature shine through. Share personal stories or experiences that illustrate your commitment to conservation and how you envision contributing to Devon’s environmental sustainability.
