Location
Winchester

Hours
Full Time (hours not specified)

Salary
£47,181 per annum

About the Role
Winchester City Council is seeking a Principal Ecologist and Biodiversity Officer (Maternity Cover) to join the Sustainability and Natural Environment team (SANE). You will lead the delivery of the council’s ecological and biodiversity functions by providing specialised advice and support, and by identifying and delivering strategic ecological needs. This role involves offering professional biodiversity expertise across various council functions including Development Management, design advice to the New Homes Team, and strategic planning. Your work will focus on protecting, maintaining, and enhancing ecological features of international, national, and local importance, while promoting quality green spaces within Winchester City and the district.

The position requires a high level of ecological knowledge and expertise, the ability to supervise colleagues, and strong organisational skills to manage your own workload effectively. You will work independently and as part of a small team, engaging regularly with members of the public, partners, contractors, planners, councillors, and other council departments. Excellent communication skills and the ability to meet the travel requirements of the post are essential.

In return, the council offers a comprehensive benefits package including an employer-paid health cash plan, salary sacrifice schemes for cars and bikes, 26 days annual leave rising to 33 days depending on length of service, 13 days additional flexi leave (subject to operational requirements), option to buy up to 5 additional days annual leave, free parking at Winchester Park and Ride during work hours, membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme, discounts at major high street brands and local leisure centres, season ticket loans, an excellent working environment, and support for continuous professional development.

Experience
Proven high level of ecological knowledge and expertise relevant to biodiversity and ecology within a local government or similar environment. Experience in providing professional biodiversity advice to support development management, strategic planning, and design teams is essential. Experience supervising colleagues and managing workloads independently is required.

About you
Organised and self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a small team. Excellent communication skills to engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders including the public, partners, contractors, planners, councillors, and internal teams. Ability to meet the travel requirements of the role. Commitment to protecting and enhancing ecological features and green spaces.

Qualifications
Relevant ecological or environmental qualifications are expected to support the level of expertise required for this role.