Ecologist in London

The Ecologist role provides specialist technical advice to our local authority customers on ecology, biodiversity, nature conservation, Habitats Regulations Assessments and new statutory and regulatory duties including under the Environment Act 2021, including review of planning applications, preparation of policy and project development and implementation.

The role offers important support to nature recovery, Local Site monitoring and biodiversity net gain. Experience in protected species is particularly welcome; possession of protected species licences would be advantageous. Experience in working with statutory agencies and developers and a proven ability to identify and facilitate environmental solutions would be welcomed. If you are working towards a professional membership that would also be helpful.

The key responsibilities include:

• Advise on the impact of planning applications, including Environmental Impact Assessments, on biodiversity, ecology and nature conservation resources on behalf of the constituent authorities.
• Recommend and advise on the acceptability of surveys, method statements, planning conditions, monitoring requirements and conservation management.
• Act as Expert Witness as required.
• Advise as part of the Ecology Team, on the ecological implications of the Authorities' plans, projects and programmes and assist with development of appropriate projects, including Local Development Documents.
• Be responsible for, co‐coordinate and complete, HRA reports on protected sites and species, including HRA screening reports, Appropriate Assessment and Three Test Assessments for European protected species, of plans, policies and projects.
• Be responsible for strategic and site‐specific liaison with Natural England, Environment Agency, Forestry Commission, Countryside Council for Wales and Defra on ecological and HRA matters, and the Mersey Forest.

This role suits someone who is ambitious, motivated and passionate about developing their ecology / planning careers and play a leading role in driving nature recovery in our City Region.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES

Sefton Council strives to ensure that our workforce is inclusive and representative of our communities. A diverse workforce is important to us, our staff bring with them a wide range of experiences, views, ideas, and innovations, and we are committed to providing an environment that recognises, respects, and values everybody's identity, where individual differences are strengths and where everyone can thrive and maximise their potential.

We are always open to learning and growing as an organisation, and we welcome new ideas and initiatives that promote equality, diversity and inclusion. We are an Equal Opportunities Employer; all candidates will receive equal treatment. Our decision to appoint will be based upon whether an individual's skills, experience, qualifications, and abilities make them the most suitable candidate for the role.

Please note that all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for these jobs (as given in the Person Specification) and who want to apply under the Disability Confident Scheme will be invited to interview. If you are currently in care or have previously been in care, we provide a guaranteed interview scheme for care experienced people if you meet the essential requirements for the role.