At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting bat surveys and manage ecological data to protect wildlife.
- Company: Join North Somerset Council, dedicated to preserving nature and biodiversity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time hours, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Flexible working environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be a key player in ecological conservation and engage with passionate volunteers.
- Qualifications: Experience in ecology, strong knowledge of bats, and great communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 35412 - 38220 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Ecology Officer with a specialist focus on bats, supporting the delivery of our annual North Somerset Bat Survey to secure the continued engagement with volunteers and the collection and use of high-quality ecological data to inform decision-making.
Key responsibilities
- Coordinate and support the delivery of our Bat Survey project, working with volunteers and partners to secure continued high-quality data collection.
- Lead on the collection, processing and interpretation of acoustic bat data from static detectors across Nature Parks and the wider district.
- Support the delivery and sale of bat mitigation and Biodiversity Net Gain units on Council-owned land.
- Oversee the management and monitoring of North Somerset Nature Park and BNG sites, including coordination of prescribed management activities.
- Provide professional ecological advice to Development Management, with a particular focus on horseshoe bat impacts and mitigation.
- Support and contribute to the preparation of Habitat Regulations Assessments (HRAs), including assessment of bat impacts and liaison with Natural England where required.
- Review and check Habitat Evaluation Procedure (HEP) calculations and bat mitigation proposals associated with development.
- Use ecological data to inform guidance, policy and technical documents, including bat-related planning guidance.
- Work with other bat mitigation providers and potential providers to ensure a network of mitigation sites across North Somerset.
Essential criteria
- Valid driving licence and own transport, or be able to provide alternative, suitable method of travel.
- A relevant vocational qualification or experience to Level 4 or above in ecology or a closely related field.
- A good working knowledge of ecological planning issues, legislation and policy.
- A strong understanding of protected species, particularly bats.
- Experience contributing to or supporting Habitat Regulations Assessments.
- Ability to interpret ecological data and apply it to real world planning and land management decisions.
- Good organisational skills with the ability to manage and prioritise your own workload.
- Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues, stakeholders and volunteers.
To apply, click here. Closing date: Monday 6 July 2026. Interview date: Tuesday 14 July 2026. For further information about the role email Esther Coffin-Smith, Natural Environment Manager: esther.coffin-smith@n-somerset.gov.uk. As a Disability Confident Leader, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the job role.
Ecology Officer - North Somerset Council in Weston-super-Mare employer: Countryside Classroom
North Somerset Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that values ecological conservation and community engagement. As an Ecology Officer, you will have the opportunity to work in the beautiful surroundings of Weston-super-Mare, contributing to meaningful projects like the North Somerset Bat Survey while enjoying professional growth through collaboration with passionate volunteers and stakeholders. The council prioritises employee development and inclusivity, ensuring a rewarding career path for those dedicated to environmental stewardship.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Ecology Officer - North Somerset Council in Weston-super-Mare
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Create a portfolio that highlights any relevant projects, whether it's coursework, internships, or personal initiatives. Share this online, perhaps even on platforms like GitHub or your own website, to grab the attention of hiring managers looking for talent like us.
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We think you need these skills to ace Ecology Officer - North Somerset Council in Weston-super-Mare
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for a role in environmental engineering tech, make sure to highlight your technical skills like CAD software proficiency, data analysis, or modelling techniques. These are essential for the job and should stand out in your CV and cover letter, showing how you can contribute to projects at Countryside Classroom.
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How to prepare for a job interview at Countryside Classroom
✨Brush Up on Environmental Regulations
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest environmental regulations and standards. In an environmental engineering tech role at Countryside Classroom, you might be asked specific questions about compliance measures, so understanding these will definitely give you an edge.
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Prepare to demonstrate your proficiency with relevant tools and software, such as AutoCAD or GIS. You might be given a practical problem to solve during the interview, so it’s a great idea to brush up on these skills and perhaps even bring a portfolio of your projects to showcase your technical prowess.
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Be ready for behavioural questions that assess how you handle teamwork, conflict, and project management. Think of examples from your studies or practical experiences where you tackled challenges effectively, showcasing both your technical and interpersonal skills.
