At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead bat surveys and manage ecological data to support biodiversity.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking council dedicated to environmental conservation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Flexible work environment with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in wildlife conservation while working with passionate volunteers.
- Qualifications: Experience in ecology, particularly with bats, and strong data interpretation skills.
The predicted salary is between 35412 - 38220 £ per year.
Location: Weston-super-Mare
Salary: £35,412 - £38,220 p.a.
Hours: 37 per week (full time)
Type: Permanent
Job reference: EATA0083
Closing Date: 06 July
Interviews: Tuesday 14 July
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 an 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.
Desirable criteria
- Experience working with horseshoe bats and/or bat mitigation for development.
- Familiarity with Biodiversity Net Gain, including BNG Metrics and Biodiversity Gain Plans.
- Knowledge of the North Somerset and Mendip Bats SAC Supplementary Planning Document and Habitat Evaluation Procedure (HEP).
- Experience with acoustic bat data analysis and static detector surveys.
- Experience of managing or monitoring land for biodiversity outcomes.
- An understanding and experience of using GIS.
- Membership of CIEEM (or eligibility for membership).
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 in Weston-super-Mare employer: isepglobal
Join our dedicated team in Weston-super-Mare as an Ecology Officer, where you will play a vital role in conserving local bat populations and enhancing biodiversity. We offer a supportive work culture that values collaboration and professional growth, alongside competitive salaries and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the environment. With a focus on employee development and community engagement, this position provides a unique chance to contribute to ecological initiatives while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of North Somerset.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Ecology Officer in Weston-super-Mare
✨Get Involved in Local Environmental Initiatives
Dive into your local environmental scenes, like community clean-up projects or eco-focused events. Not only will you meet like-minded people, but it's a surefire way to showcase your passion and skills in environmental engineering tech.
✨Join Industry-Specific Organisations
Check out organisations like the Institution of Environmental Engineers for networking opportunities and resources. They often host events and seminars that can help us connect with key players in the industry, including potential employers like isepglobal.
✨Show Off Your Projects and Passion
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.
✨Utilise Environmental Job Boards
Take advantage of niche job boards dedicated to environmental careers. Sites like Green Jobs, Environmental Career and EcoJobs often feature openings from companies like isepglobal and can help us land that full-time gig.
We think you need these skills to ace Ecology Officer 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 isepglobal.
Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability:In this field, showcasing your passion for sustainability and environmental protection can set you apart. Include any relevant projects, volunteer experience, or courses that underline your commitment to these causes. isepglobal will appreciate candidates who genuinely care about making a difference.
Tailor Your Application to the Role:Don't just send a generic CV and cover letter. Make sure to tailor your application to the specific role of Ecology Officer at isepglobal. Highlight experiences that align directly with the job description and give concrete examples of your work to demonstrate that you’re the right fit for a full-time position.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have certifications related to environmental engineering or technology, like LEED Accreditation or any relevant software certifications, make sure to mention them. These qualifications can boost your application and show that you’re serious about your professional development in this competitive field.
How to prepare for a job interview at isepglobal
✨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 isepglobal, you might be asked specific questions about compliance measures, so understanding these will definitely give you an edge.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
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.
✨Highlight Your Passion for Sustainability
In a full-time role, employers are looking for commitment and enthusiasm. Share your experiences, studies, or projects that reflect your passion for environmental sustainability. This will show isepglobal that you're not just qualified but genuinely invested in the field.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
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.
