JOB TITLE Ecology Officer
POST NUMBER 013369
WEEKLY WORKING HOURS 37
SALARY RANGE £36,124 - £39,513 pa - pro rata for hours worked
TYPE OF CONTRACT 6 Month Fixed Term Contract
LOCATION Stevenage
We are proud of what we have achieved for the wildlife and people of Stevenage, but we have aspirations to do so much more.
Stevenage was the UK’s first new town, but its design retained and protected important features such as ancient woodlands and hedgerows, ponds and veteran trees that provide valuable habitat for a wide range of wildlife. Habitats that provide for 8 of the 10 county species of cricket and grasshopper, and at least half of the UK bat species.
In addition to the habitats we have inherited we have also created new woodland, introduced swift nest boxes to existing buildings, and developed a network of grassland and wildflower meadows.
Stevenage has more to offer wildlife and people than you might initially think.
About The Role
We are seeking an Ecology Officer to join our professional, highly committed and friendly environmental team.
Specialising in Biodiversity Net Gain the post holder will provide professional ecological advice and guidance at all stages of the planning application process; addressing the local challenges to its implementation and exploring opportunities for new habitat creation.
Working with colleagues, contractors, partner organisations, volunteers and community groups the post holder will also deliver the enhancement, restoration and creation of wildlife habitats through delivery of the Stevenage Biodiversity Action Plan
The successful candidate will need to develop and maintain excellent working relationships with a variety of stakeholders; contributing to raising awareness of biodiversity across Stevenage and the wider county.
They will lead on a range of opportunities to connect people and wildlife including leading practical conservation activities and delivery of community events and projects.
About You
You will have:
• A proven track record of developing green spaces for people and wildlife
• Sound knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain
• Knowledge of writing management plans for a range of habitat types
• Good general ecological knowledge of British species and habitats
• Expertise in delivering nature-based solutions and biodiversity interventions
• Proven experience of leading practical conservation activities for volunteers and community groups
Our benefits
We offer a range of benefits to support our staff including:
• Pension Scheme: We offer a career average pension scheme, providing generous benefits upon retirement, as well as a lump sum and pension for dependants
• Flexible working: available upon request, subject to operational requirements.
• Part time and Job share: all our full time vacancies are open to job share unless otherwise stated.
• A variety of different types of paid and unpaid leave covering emergency and planned leave, maternity, paternity, adoption and parental leave.
• 25 days holiday rising to 31 days (depending on Local Government service)
• An extensive range of learning and development opportunities
• Confidential advice and support on personal, work, family and relationship issues, 24/7, from our Employee Assistance Programme
• Season ticket loans and discounts for public transport
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Stevenage Credit Union: secure savings, free life insurance and access to cheap loans.
• Employee Discounts: via monthly paid membership of the Civil Service Sports Council (CSSC)
• Discounted Health and Fitness membership
• Trade Unions: For a small fee, all employees have the opportunity to join a Trade Union.
Application Details
For an informal discussion about this role please contact Julia Hill, Environmental Policy & Development Manager (01462 242900)
To apply online, please visit https://jobs.stevenage.gov.uk/StevenageBorough/Home
Closing date for receipt of applications: 16 February 2025
Interviews will be held week commencing: 24 February 2025
Please note that if we receive a large volume of applications for this role, we reserve the right to close this vacancy ahead of the published closing date
Stevenage Borough Council (SBC) is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff, volunteers and recruitment candidates to share this commitment. SBC shall take all reasonable steps to employ staff who are safe to work with children, young people and vulnerable adults. For posts identified with regular contact with these groups applicants will be required to undertake a Value Based Interview. The council supports the legislative requirements for employing and maintaining safer staff and the guidance specified by Hertfordshire Safeguarding Adults Board
Stevenage Borough Council is committed to Equal Opportunities for All. For further information please click https://www.stevenage.gov.uk/about-the-council/jobs-and-careers/equal-opportunities
