At a Glance
- Tasks: Assess planning applications and ensure compliance with biodiversity policies.
- Company: Join the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, a vibrant and innovative council.
- Benefits: Enjoy 32 days annual leave, flexible working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity while working in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in ecology or related field, with experience in ecological reporting.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 30193 - 34104 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Graduate Ecologist to join us! This is a full-time role for a fixed term of 15 months, with hybrid working, and a salary of £30,193 – £34,104 per annum.
About Us
The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead (RBWM) is set in the wider county of Berkshire, one of the most economically productive and innovative areas of the country. The borough council – a unitary authority – takes pride in its exceptional team of dedicated professionals who are passionate about providing quality services to the community. RBWM is a unique borough, with huge opportunity given its proximity to London and expanding business sectors, as well as being a major cultural and tourism area which includes international attractions such as Windsor Castle, Legoland and Ascot Racecourse.
This is an excellent opportunity for an enthusiastic Graduate Ecologist to join our Ecology team.
The Role
Reporting to the Principal Ecologist, you will act as a statutory consultee to the planning process, assessing applications to ensure compliance with local and national biodiversity policies and regulations, and will support the Council’s work in response to the biodiversity crisis by ensuring biodiversity net gain is delivered in planning applications.
Your Role Will Involve:
- Assessing the ecology reports of planning applications to ensure compliance with local and national biodiversity policies and regulations.
- Analysing ecological data and preparing detailed reports to support planning decisions, highlighting potential impacts on biodiversity and suggesting appropriate mitigation strategies.
- Liaising with planning officers, developers and other stakeholders to provide expert advice on ecological matters in the planning process.
- Participate in site visits and surveys to assess the ecological value of proposed development sites and council nature reserves.
What We Are Looking For Someone Who:
- Is educated to degree level in ecology or a related discipline.
- Has experience in writing ecological reports and an understanding of biodiversity planning policy and legislation.
- Has strong knowledge of ecological principles, survey methodologies, and data analysis techniques.
- Has experience of ecological surveying.
- Has strong digital/IT skills (e.g. Geographical Information Systems, databases, spreadsheets, and use of new digital tools).
- Has membership or affiliation with relevant professional organisations, such as the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM), or is eligible for membership.
What We Offer:
- 32 days annual leave.
- Flexible working including a hybrid working pattern for a better work‑life balance.
- Generous Local Government Pension scheme includes life cover (3 times of annual salary); and an Additional Voluntary Contribution (AVC) scheme to enhance your pension provision.
- Free employee parking close to the offices.
- Give As You Earn scheme.
- Instant Reward Scheme to recognise and reward innovative achievement.
- Employee Assistance Programme providing counselling, advice, and information.
- Access to discounts and deals with hundreds of retailers, including discounted gym memberships and travel deals.
RBWM values a collaborative and inclusive work environment, fostering creativity and innovation in all aspects of its operations. As an equal opportunities employer, we encourage applications from all as we believe diverse talent makes us stronger. If you have a disability, are a current or former member of the armed forces or have been part of any formal care system up to the age of 25, you will be guaranteed an interview, should you meet the minimum requirements for the role.
If you wish to discuss this position informally, please contact Emily Power (Principal Ecologist) at emily.power@rbwm.gov.uk.
Graduate Ecologist in Maidenhead employer: Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead
Contact Detail:
Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Ecologist in Maidenhead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the ecology field, especially those connected to RBWM. Attend local events or webinars, and don’t be shy about asking for advice or insights. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your ecological knowledge and current biodiversity policies. We recommend practising common interview questions and even doing mock interviews with friends. Confidence is key, so show them you’re the right fit for their team!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring along examples of your ecological reports or any relevant projects during the interview. This will not only demonstrate your expertise but also your passion for the role. Let them see what you can bring to the table!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, keep an eye on our careers page for any updates or new opportunities that might pop up. We’re rooting for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Ecologist in Maidenhead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Graduate Ecologist role. Highlight your relevant experience in ecology, especially any work with biodiversity policies and ecological reports. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
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 our team. Be sure to mention any specific projects or experiences that relate to the role.
Show Off Your Skills: Don’t forget to showcase your digital skills, especially if you have experience with GIS or data analysis. We love tech-savvy candidates who can bring innovative solutions to our ecology team!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and stands out in the crowd!
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead
✨Know Your Ecology Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your ecological principles and biodiversity policies before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your studies or previous experiences that demonstrate your understanding of these concepts.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about assessing ecology reports and analysing data. Think of scenarios where you've had to apply your knowledge in real-world situations, and be prepared to explain your thought process and the outcomes.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be liaising with various stakeholders, practice articulating complex ecological concepts in simple terms. You might be asked how you would explain a technical issue to someone without an ecological background, so have a few examples ready.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or how the council is addressing the biodiversity crisis. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.