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- Tasks: Advise on ecological impacts and promote biodiversity in planning decisions.
- Company: Join Hertfordshire County Council's passionate LEADS team.
- Benefits: Permanent full-time role with opportunities for real environmental impact.
- Why this job: Shape the future of biodiversity and contribute to a greener Hertfordshire.
- Qualifications: Degree in ecology or related field, plus 18 months of professional experience.
- Other info: Engage with local networks and influence policy-making for sustainable development.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
Are you passionate about protecting and enhancing the natural environment? Would you like to play a key role in shaping the future of biodiversity and placemaking across Hertfordshire? We are seeking an experienced Ecologist to join our friendly and knowledgeable LEADS team (Landscape, Ecology, Archaeology, Development & Sustainability). This is a fantastic opportunity to influence planning and development decisions, ensuring ecological considerations are embedded at every stage.
As an Ecologist, you will provide expert advice to Hertfordshire's planning authorities and developers, helping to ensure that biodiversity, habitat protection, and ecological enhancement are central to planning decisions. Your responsibilities will include:
- Reviewing planning applications and local plans to assess ecological impacts.
- Supporting the implementation of Biodiversity Net Gain and helping to deliver the Local Nature Recovery Strategy.
- Advising on site surveys, mitigation strategies, and opportunities for ecological enhancement.
- Collaborating with planners, developers, and designers to promote nature-positive outcomes.
- Representing the natural environment in policy-making, master planning, and placemaking discussions.
- Engaging with local and national networks, including ALGE and CIEEM.
This is an exciting time to join us, as new legislation and strategies are raising the profile of ecology in national and planning government. You'll have the opportunity to influence real change and contribute to a greener, more sustainable Hertfordshire.
Essential Requirements:
- 18-month professional ecological experience in planning or consultancy.
- Degree-level qualification or equivalent experience in ecology or a related field.
- A strong understanding of UK environmental legislation, planning policy, and protected species.
- Strong understanding of Biodiversity Net Gain, Local Nature Recovery Strategies, and protected species legislation.
- Experience and familiarity in habitats assessments, surveying and reports.
- Passionate about promoting the value of the natural environment in planning and development.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills and speak confidently to a range of audiences.
- Comfortable working across teams and organisations to deliver shared goals.
- Ability to negotiate and take a pragmatic approach to ecological outcomes.
- Manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- Hold a full driving licence and access to your own vehicle.
Desirable:
- Postgraduate qualification in ecology, biology, or environmental planning.
- Experience with GIS and ecological data analysis.
- Familiarity with biological recording networks and stakeholder organisations (e.g. Natural England, Environment Agency).
- Understanding of how nature and culture intersect in placemaking and policy.
- Have a working knowledge of the planning system.
- Evidence of any relevant conservation and/or habitat management experience.
Closing date: 10 December 2025
Ecologist in Reading employer: Hertfordshire County Council
Contact Detail:
Hertfordshire County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Ecologist in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with other ecologists, planners, and developers. Attend local events or join online forums to make those valuable connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for the environment! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your experiences and projects that highlight your commitment to biodiversity and ecological enhancement.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on current legislation and strategies in ecology. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to Hertfordshire's sustainability goals and demonstrate your knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to 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!
We think you need these skills to ace Ecologist in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let your love for the natural environment shine through in your application. We want to see how passionate you are about ecology and biodiversity, so share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your commitment.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Ecologist role. Highlight your experience with planning applications, biodiversity net gain, and any relevant qualifications. We’re looking for specifics that match our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for the team. Be sure to mention your understanding of UK environmental legislation and how you can contribute to our goals in Hertfordshire.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hertfordshire County Council
✨Know Your Ecology
Brush up on your knowledge of UK environmental legislation and planning policies. Be ready to discuss how these impact biodiversity and habitat protection, as well as your experience with Biodiversity Net Gain and Local Nature Recovery Strategies.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your 18 months of professional ecological experience. Highlight your involvement in planning applications, site surveys, and any successful mitigation strategies you've implemented.
✨Communicate Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. You’ll need to engage with a range of audiences, so be prepared to explain complex ecological concepts in an accessible way.
✨Collaborate and Negotiate
Think about times when you’ve worked across teams or negotiated outcomes. Be ready to discuss how you can promote nature-positive outcomes while balancing the needs of planners and developers.