Location
South England Forest District - flexible working options including hybrid work. Main offices located in the New Forest, Hampshire and Bucks Horn Oak. You will be expected to work across the whole South District from Dorset to West Sussex.

Hours
Full Time - 37 hours per week

Salary
£40,388 - £43,482 per annum

About the Role
Forestry England is dedicated to growing the nation’s forests for everyone, adapting landscapes for tomorrow, and creating amazing places and experiences for the public. As a Senior Ecologist, you will provide expert ecological leadership across the South Forest District, supporting statutory responsibilities and driving nature recovery in line with Forestry England’s Biodiversity Plan. This key role within the Planning & Environment team involves working across diverse habitats and species, managing projects from SSSI enhancement and ancient woodland restoration to landscape-scale biodiversity programmes. You will ensure all operations meet the highest ecological standards while contributing to the management of 46,000 hectares of public forest estate, much of which is nationally and internationally important for biodiversity. A full UK driving licence is required, and automatic licence holders are welcome to apply.

Experience
Proven experience in ecological leadership and delivering biodiversity projects across diverse habitats and species. Experience working within statutory frameworks and managing nature recovery initiatives is essential.

About you
Highly motivated and passionate about nature conservation and biodiversity. Able to work collaboratively across teams and stakeholders to deliver ecological outcomes. Flexible and adaptable to work across a wide geographic area. Strong communication and decision-making skills are required.

Qualifications
A relevant degree or professional qualification in ecology or a related environmental discipline is expected. Membership of a professional ecological body is desirable. A full UK driving licence is essential.