At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead ecological planning and drive Biodiversity Net Gain in a stunning national park.
- Company: Join the North York Moors National Park Authority, dedicated to preserving natural beauty.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to environmental protection and conservation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity and sustainable development in a breathtaking environment.
- Qualifications: Three years' experience in ecology and knowledge of planning systems required.
The predicted salary is between 33699 - 37280 £ per year.
The North York Moors National Park Authority helps to look after one of the most phenomenal parts of the British Isles. Filled with beautiful moorlands and fantastic woodland, the North York Moors is a unique area with a diversity of landscape and wildlife.
We are now looking for an Ecologist to join us at our offices in Helmsley on a full-time, permanent basis, working Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm.
The Benefits
- Salary of £33,699 to £37,280, depending on experience (pay award pending)
- 25 days’ annual leave, rising annually by one day to 30 days after five years’ service, plus public holidays
This is a unique opportunity for an ecology professional with strong planning and policy experience to join us and make a positive impact on our breathtaking national park. You’ll have the chance to drive the delivery of Biodiversity Net Gain and shape sustainable development, contributing to high-impact projects where environmental protection is front and centre. What’s more, you’ll have the chance to expand your experience across policy development, strategic planning and nature recovery, building a well-rounded portfolio amongst teams of like-minded professionals.
The Role
As an Ecologist, you will play a key role in ensuring ecological considerations underpin planning decisions, policy development and project delivery across the National Park. Specifically, you will lead on planning-related ecology, providing expert advice on development proposals and delivering Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). Working closely with Planning colleagues, you will assess applications, review evidence and support the creation of sustainable, policy-aligned outcomes.
You will also contribute to the development of ecological policy and guidance, supporting wider nature recovery ambitions through input into key frameworks such as the Local Plan, National Park Management Plan and Local Nature Recovery Strategies.
Additionally, you will:
- Undertake planning casework, providing formal responses on applications
- Lead on the delivery and implementation of Biodiversity Net Gain
- Provide advice on Habitat Banks
- Produce and update planning guidance to support ecologically sustainable development
- Provide ecological input into internal and external policy development and consultations
- Support and develop ecological data collection, monitoring and recording
- Engage volunteers, partners and contractors to deliver ecological surveys and monitoring activities
- Provide ecological advice on internal projects and proposals
- Promote biodiversity and conservation work through content, communications and stakeholder engagement
About You
To be considered as an Ecologist, you will need:
- At least three years’ experience in a relevant field
- Experience and understanding of the planning system, planning-related legislation and Biodiversity Net Gain
- Experience of undertaking ecological surveys for a range of taxa
- A sound understanding of ecological principles and knowledge of the range of habitats and species found in the North York Moors
- Knowledge of ecological-related legislation, particularly related to protected sites and species
- Working knowledge of GIS packages
- Evidence of continued professional development
- Educated to degree level or equivalent in ecology or related subject
Applications must be completed by midnight on Sunday 12 April 2026. Interviews are likely to be held on Monday 20 April 2026.
Webrecruit and the North York Moors National Park Authority are equal opportunities employers, value diversity and are strongly committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and all applicants for employment. Equal opportunities are the only acceptable way to conduct business and we believe that the more inclusive our environments are, the better our work will be.
So, if you’re ready to help protect and enhance one of the UK’s most important natural landscapes as an Ecologist, please apply via the button shown.
Ecologist in Helmsley employer: North York Moors National Park
The North York Moors National Park Authority is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for ecologists to contribute to the conservation of one of the UK's most stunning landscapes. With a supportive work culture that prioritises professional development and collaboration among like-minded individuals, employees enjoy generous benefits including up to 30 days of annual leave and a competitive salary. Working in Helmsley, you will be at the heart of impactful projects that drive biodiversity and sustainable development, making a meaningful difference in environmental protection.
Contact Details:
North York Moors National Park Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Ecologist in Helmsley
✨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 North York Moors National Park.
✨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 North York Moors National Park and can help us land that full-time gig.
We think you need these skills to ace Ecologist in Helmsley
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 North York Moors National Park.
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. North York Moors National Park 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 Ecologist at North York Moors National Park. 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 North York Moors National Park
✨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 North York Moors National Park, 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 North York Moors National Park 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.