Location
Yorkshire District office, Pickering, with work across forests in Yorkshire.

Hours
37 hours per week

Salary
£33,854 per annum

About the Role
As a District Ecologist, you will play a vital role in protecting some of Yorkshire’s most treasured landscapes and species. You will champion Forestry England's Biodiversity Plan to ensure forests thrive for generations to come. Your responsibilities include leading the development and delivery of management plans for designated sites and protected species, translating strategy into practical action on the ground. Working across diverse habitats such as ancient woodlands and nationally important heathlands, you will use evidence and monitoring to guide decisions. Beyond conservation, you will contribute to forest plans and operational strategies to support biodiversity recovery at scale. This fixed term appointment runs until 26 November 2028, with the possibility of extension.

About Forestry England
We are a passionate team of foresters, professionals, and experts dedicated to growing the nation’s forests for everyone. Our work includes creating amazing places and experiences, providing vital wildlife habitats, improving air quality, and producing sustainable timber.

Benefits
Forestry England contributes an average of 28.97% towards your pension through the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension Scheme. You will receive 25 days holiday per year, increasing by one day per year of service up to 30 days (pro-rated for part-time employees), plus bank holidays. Our STaR employee benefits scheme offers discounts on supermarket shopping, hotels, clothing, electronics, insurance, holidays, gym memberships, and wellbeing apps. Free parking at Forestry England sites and free entry to National Arboretums at Westonbirt and Bedgebury are included. We are committed to lifelong learning and career development, supporting continual professional development, individual learning plans, and sponsored membership of professional bodies.

Experience
Relevant experience in ecology, biodiversity management, or related environmental fields is essential. Proven ability to develop and implement management plans for protected sites and species is highly desirable.

About you
You are passionate about conservation and biodiversity, with strong communication and influencing skills. You work effectively both independently and as part of a team. You are able to make effective decisions and adapt to changing circumstances. Commitment to Forestry England’s values and the ability to contribute positively to forest planning and operational strategies is important.

Qualifications
A relevant degree or professional qualification in ecology, environmental science, or a related discipline is required. Membership of a professional body is desirable. Successful candidates will be subject to a criminal record check and government baseline personnel security standard check. Fluency in spoken English is essential.