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- Tasks: Join our Ecology team to assess planning applications and ensure biodiversity compliance.
- Company: The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, a vibrant and innovative local authority.
- Benefits: 32 days annual leave, flexible hybrid 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 and surveying.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace that values diverse talent and offers excellent career growth.
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 working to 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
- 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.
Interview date: 21st April 2026
If you wish to discuss this position informally, please contact Emily Power (Principal Ecologist) at emily.power@rbwm.gov.uk.
Graduate Ecologist in Thatcham 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 Thatcham
✨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 where you can meet potential colleagues and learn more about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by brushing up on biodiversity policies and regulations. We want you to show off your knowledge of ecological principles and how they apply to planning applications. Practice answering common interview questions related to these topics.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your digital skills! Be ready to discuss your experience with GIS, databases, and any other tech tools you've used in ecological surveying. This will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at RBWM. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Ecologist in Thatcham
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 Digital Skills: Since we value strong digital skills, make sure to mention your experience with tools like GIS, databases, and spreadsheets. If you've used any new digital tools in your previous roles, let us know – we love innovation!
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 RBWM!
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 your understanding of local and national regulations, as well as any relevant experience you have in writing ecological reports.
✨Show Off Your Data Skills
Since strong digital skills are a must, be prepared to talk about your experience with GIS, databases, and data analysis techniques. Bring examples of how you've used these tools in past projects or studies to demonstrate your capabilities.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to analyse ecological data and prepare detailed reports. Think about specific instances where you've had to suggest mitigation strategies or liaise with stakeholders, and be ready to share those experiences.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the Ecology team’s current projects or how they approach biodiversity net gain in planning applications. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.