Location
Winchester

Hours
Full Time - 37 hours per week

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). As a key member of a small ecology team, 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 to support 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 across Winchester City and the district.

The role requires strong organisational skills, the ability to manage your own workload and time effectively, and the capability to work independently as well as collaboratively. You will engage regularly with members of the public, partners, contractors, planners, councillors, and other council departments, so excellent communication skills are essential. The post also requires the ability to supervise colleagues and meet travel requirements associated with the role.

In return, the council offers an excellent 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 to 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
Extensive ecological knowledge and expertise with experience providing professional biodiversity advice in a local government or similar setting. Proven ability to lead and deliver ecological and biodiversity functions across multiple teams and projects.

About you
Highly organised with excellent time management skills. Able to work independently and as part of a team. Strong communication skills to effectively engage with a wide range of stakeholders including the public, partners, contractors, planners, councillors, and internal teams. Ability to supervise colleagues and manage workload efficiently. Willingness and ability to meet the travel requirements of the post.

Qualifications
A relevant degree or professional qualification in ecology, biodiversity, environmental science, or a related discipline is expected. Membership of a relevant professional body is desirable.