At a Glance
- Tasks: Unlock nature conservation opportunities through ecological data collection and habitat surveying.
- Company: Join West Yorkshire Ecology Service, a leader in biodiversity and conservation.
- Benefits: Permanent position with a chance to make a real impact on local wildlife.
- Other info: Work in a diverse environment with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that enhances biodiversity and protects local habitats.
- Qualifications: Two years of relevant experience and a degree in ecology or related field.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
West Yorkshire Ecology Service (WYES) is seeking a full-time, permanent Ecology Officer to work at their office in Morley, Leeds. The successful applicant will be a well-informed, progressive ecologist keen to unlock opportunities for furthering nature conservation from targeted collection, collation and dissemination of ecological data.
Habitat surveying and condition assessment will be a significant part of the role, largely used for identifying, monitoring and enhancing Local Wildlife Sites. Enhancement of other ecological data contributing towards objectives of the Local Nature Recovery Strategy and Biodiversity Gain will also be required.
The ability to present the results to other conservation professionals and landowners will require someone with excellent interpersonal, influencing and negotiation skills. The post will require someone who is forward looking and able to seek-out and evaluate technological changes which will make ecological data capture and distribution more efficient and effective.
The successful applicant will have good GIS skills to support the record centre activities in providing ecological information to enquirers and will be adept at data analysis. Applicants must have at least two years full-time or equivalent relevant work experience and sound understanding and knowledge of UK ecology.
Good botanical identification skills and experience of undertaking UKHab habitat surveys are essential. Experience of working within the local planning system would be advantageous. A flexible approach to work but good attention to detail and accuracy are important characteristics. Ideally you will have a degree in ecology or a related field, have experience of working with other ecologists both professional and amateur and hold a full driving licence.
West Yorkshire Ecology Service (WYES) is the ecological records and information service for West Yorkshire and provides advice on nature conservation, biodiversity and other ecological matters. The post is supported by five West Yorkshire district authorities, Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds and Wakefield. The area has a diverse range of habitats from the South Pennines in the west to the Southern Magnesian Limestone in the east, something to inspire everyone.
How to apply: Please submit your completed Application Form and Recruitment Monitoring Form to hr@wyjs.org.uk. Please state the reference number WYJS:010-26 when applying. Closing date for applications: Monday 8 June 2026 at 12 noon.
Ecology Officer – West Yorkshire Ecology Service (WYES) employer: Ecology Training UK Ltd
West Yorkshire Ecology Service (WYES) is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment in the heart of Morley, Leeds. With a strong commitment to nature conservation and biodiversity, WYES offers employees opportunities for professional growth through hands-on experience in ecological data management and habitat surveying, all while working alongside passionate conservation professionals. The diverse range of habitats in West Yorkshire not only provides a unique backdrop for your work but also inspires a culture of continuous learning and community engagement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Ecology Officer – West Yorkshire Ecology Service (WYES)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow ecologists and conservation professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Ecology Officer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your GIS projects, habitat surveys, and any data analysis work you've done. We want to see how you can contribute to the Local Nature Recovery Strategy and Biodiversity Gain!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! You’ll need to communicate your findings effectively to landowners and other professionals. We suggest doing mock presentations with friends or colleagues to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. Don’t forget to mention your relevant experience in ecology and your passion for nature conservation!
We think you need these skills to ace Ecology Officer – West Yorkshire Ecology Service (WYES)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Make sure you really understand the role of an Ecology Officer. Brush up on your UK ecology knowledge and be ready to showcase your experience with habitat surveying and GIS skills in your application.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your Application Form to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the job description. Show us why you're the perfect fit for WYES!
Be Clear and Concise:When filling out your Application Form, keep it clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to see your key achievements and skills at a glance.
Follow the Instructions:Make sure you follow the application instructions carefully. Don’t forget to include the reference number WYJS:010-26 and submit your forms to the right email address. We want to see your application, so let’s make it easy for us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ecology Training UK Ltd
✨Know Your Ecology Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK ecology, especially the local habitats in West Yorkshire. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of your experience with habitat surveying and condition assessment, as well as any relevant projects you've worked on.
✨Show Off Your GIS Skills
Since good GIS skills are essential for this role, be ready to talk about your experience with GIS software. Bring examples of how you've used GIS in past roles to support ecological data collection and analysis, and be prepared to discuss how you can apply these skills at WYES.
✨Demonstrate Your Interpersonal Skills
This role requires excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills, so think of examples where you've successfully communicated complex ecological data to non-experts. Practice explaining your findings in a clear and engaging way, as you'll need to present results to conservation professionals and landowners.
✨Be Ready for Technological Discussions
WYES is looking for someone who can evaluate technological changes in ecological data capture. Familiarise yourself with the latest tools and technologies in ecology, and be prepared to discuss how you can leverage these advancements to enhance data efficiency and effectiveness.
