Ecologist

Ecologist

Full-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join a dynamic team to protect and enhance Solihull's natural environment.
  • Company: Solihull Council, committed to sustainability and conservation.
  • Benefits: Flexible working, generous leave, and exclusive employee perks.
  • Other info: Work in a supportive environment with excellent career development opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity and sustainable growth in your community.
  • Qualifications: Degree in Ecology or related field with project management skills.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

Solihull Council is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Ecologist to join our award-winning, multi-disciplinary team of Conservation Officers, Landscape Architects, Urban Designers and Ecologists to protect and enhance the Borough’s natural, built, and historic environment. As part of the Planning Service, you will ensure the Council meets its statutory responsibilities with regard to nature conservation by providing professional advice across planning proposals including Biodiversity Net Gain and play a key role in supporting the development of policies and strategies to support sustainable growth and nature conservation across the Borough. You will also be responsible for securing the positive management of council owned nature conservation sites through the development and implementation of nature improvement projects.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Act as the Council’s consultee on BNG-related applications providing expert ecological advice.
  • Support the development and implementation of ecological enhancement schemes and conservation management plans.
  • Conduct ecological surveys and produce professional reports.
  • Contribute to corporate priorities and environmental programmes.
  • Liaise with internal and external partners, including statutory agencies and conservation bodies, to protect and enhance nature conservation sites and landscapes.

Essential Requirements:

  • Degree in Ecology or a related discipline.
  • Strong knowledge of British ecology, conservation priorities, and relevant legislation.
  • Understanding of the planning system and its relationship with nature conservation.
  • Proven experience in delivering habitat enhancement projects.
  • Sound project management skills.
  • Understanding of relevant policy, procedure, and legislation in relation to Biodiversity and Ecology.

What We Offer:

  • A friendly, supportive, and inclusive working environment.
  • A range of flexible working options.
  • Generous annual leave plus the option to buy up to 10 extra days.
  • Attractive staff benefits.
  • A Flexitime scheme.
  • Access to our Employee Assistance Programme – a 24-hour independent, free and confidential advice and support service.
  • Family and carer-friendly policies.
  • Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.
  • Exclusive employee benefits: staff discounts, subsidised travel passes, Cycle 2 Work Scheme.

Why Solihull?

Solihull boasts 18 Green Flag Awards and 23 Local Nature Reserves, with significant growth opportunities through UK Central, one of the largest growth programmes in the country capturing development proposals for Birmingham Airport, Jaguar Land Rover, Arden Cross, HS2 and the National Exhibition Centre. Our Borough combines urban centres, rural villages, and high-quality Green Belt, making it a unique and rewarding place to work. Solihull’s natural environment is a key component of the economic growth agenda, and the Council is committed to protecting and enhancing our network of green and blue infrastructure and the natural processes that supports our wellbeing. With a revised Local Plan underway and preparations for HS2 progressing, we seek a dynamic, customer-focused ecologist with excellent communication skills and a proactive approach.

Additional Requirements:

  • A valid driving licence and access to a vehicle for site visits is essential.
  • Flexibility in working with technology is expected to support efficient service delivery.

To apply, please click on the link below. Your application should be in your own words and reflect your own personal experiences. If you have a specific question or require further information regarding this post, please contact Mike Eastwood, Team Leader, Conservation of the Historic Environment, Landscape Architecture, Urban Design and Ecology Team on 07768 553099 or email or Natalie Walker, Senior Development Officer – Ecology on email. The closing date for completed applications is 2nd November 2025. Interviews will be held week commencing 10th November 2025.

Solihull Council is proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees - a place where we can all be ourselves and succeed on merit. Solihull Council has a responsibility for, and a commitment to, safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and requires all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Ecologist employer: Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council

Solihull Council is an excellent employer, offering a friendly and inclusive work environment that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. With flexible working options, generous leave policies, and access to exclusive benefits, employees can thrive while contributing to the protection and enhancement of the Borough's natural environment. Located in a vibrant area with significant development opportunities, this role as an Ecologist allows you to make a meaningful impact on local conservation efforts and community wellbeing.
Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council

Contact Detail:

Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Ecologist

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow ecologists and conservation professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. Building connections can lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.

✨Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your ecological surveys, reports, and any habitat enhancement projects you've worked on. This will give potential employers a clear idea of what you bring to the table.

✨Tip Number 3

Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings; reach out to Solihull Council directly. Express your interest in their work and ask if they have any upcoming projects where you could contribute your expertise.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare for interviews by brushing up on current legislation and policies related to biodiversity and ecology. Being well-versed in these topics will show that you're not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the field.

We think you need these skills to ace Ecologist

Ecological Expertise
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)
Ecological Surveys
Report Writing
Project Management
Knowledge of British Ecology
Understanding of Conservation Legislation
Planning System Knowledge
Habitat Enhancement Project Delivery
Communication Skills
Liaison with Statutory Agencies
Conservation Management Plans
Flexibility with Technology
Driving Licence

Some tips for your application 🫡

Be Yourself: When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you and how your experiences align with the role of Ecologist. Don't be afraid to share your passion for ecology and conservation.

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. We’re looking for someone who understands British ecology and has a solid grasp of the planning system, so show us how you fit the bill!

Showcase Your Experience: Use specific examples from your past work to demonstrate your expertise in ecological surveys, habitat enhancement projects, and project management. We love seeing concrete evidence of your skills in action!

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it keeps everything organised on our end!

How to prepare for a job interview at Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council

✨Know Your Ecology Stuff

Brush up on your knowledge of British ecology and conservation priorities. Be ready to discuss specific legislation and how it relates to the role. This will show that you’re not just passionate but also well-informed about the field.

✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills

Prepare examples of habitat enhancement projects you've managed or contributed to. Highlight your project management skills and how they can benefit the Council’s ecological initiatives. Real-life examples will make your experience more relatable.

✨Understand the Planning System

Familiarise yourself with the planning system and its relationship with nature conservation. Be prepared to discuss how you would provide expert advice on BNG-related applications, as this is a key responsibility of the role.

✨Communicate Effectively

Since excellent communication skills are essential, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Think about how you would liaise with internal and external partners to protect and enhance nature conservation sites. Good communication can set you apart!

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