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For Companies 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: Collaborate with passionate professionals in a supportive and inclusive workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity and sustainable development in a breathtaking environment.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in ecology, planning experience, and a degree in a related field.
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.
Planning Ecologist: Biodiversity Net Gain & Policy in Helmsley employer: North York Moors National Park
Contact Detail:
North York Moors National Park Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Ecologist: Biodiversity Net Gain & Policy in Helmsley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the ecology and planning fields, especially those connected to the North York Moors. Attend local events or webinars to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for biodiversity! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your experiences and ideas about Biodiversity Net Gain. Let them see how committed you are to making a positive impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on relevant policies and legislation. Familiarise yourself with the planning system and ecological principles specific to the North York Moors. This will help you stand out as a knowledgeable candidate.
✨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 take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Ecologist: Biodiversity Net Gain & Policy in Helmsley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Planning Ecologist. Highlight your experience with biodiversity, planning systems, and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with our mission!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about ecology and how you can contribute to the North York Moors National Park. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm for the role come through.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on specific examples that demonstrate your understanding of ecological principles and planning-related legislation. We love seeing real-world applications of your skills, especially in relation to Biodiversity Net Gain.
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 serious about joining our team and making a positive impact on the environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at North York Moors National Park
✨Know Your Ecology Stuff
Brush up on your knowledge of ecological principles and the specific habitats and species found in the North York Moors. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the role, especially regarding Biodiversity Net Gain and planning-related legislation.
✨Showcase Your Planning Experience
Prepare examples from your past work that demonstrate your understanding of the planning system and how you've successfully contributed to policy development or project delivery. Highlight any relevant casework you've undertaken.
✨Engage with the Team Spirit
This role involves collaboration with various teams, so be prepared to discuss how you’ve worked with others in the past. Share experiences where you’ve engaged volunteers or partners in ecological projects, showcasing your teamwork skills.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the National Park's current projects, future plans for biodiversity, and how the team measures success. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand if it’s the right fit for you.