Planning Ecologist Technician

Smiley & Co, Ltd.; Brecon; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent ecological consultancy in Brecon is seeking a Planning Ecologist Technician to assist in nature conservation and planning policy development. The ideal candidate should hold a degree in Ecology or a related field and possess strong ecological knowledge and communication skills. This permanent, full-time role offers a salary range of £31,022 - £33,699 per annum and opportunities to contribute significantly to biodiversity initiatives.

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent in Ecology or a related subject.
• Knowledge and understanding of legislation affecting natural resource management.
• Good understanding of environmental impact due to development.

Responsibilities

• Assist with nature conservation and biodiversity promotion.
• Provide advice on ecological matters related to planning.
• Support the Senior Planning Ecologist with policy development.

Skills

Ecology knowledge

Legislation awareness

Survey methodologies

MS Office skills

Communication skills

Organisational skills

Driving license

Education

Degree in Ecology or related subject

Job description

Planning Ecologist Technician

Smiley & Co, Ltd., Brecon, Wales, United Kingdom

Salary: £31,022 - £33,699 per annum

Vacancy Type: Permanent, Full Time

The Role

To assist the Authority’s work in nature conservation, enhancement of the National Parks wildlife and promotion of its biodiversity. Contribute to the formulation of planning policy and guidance and development management casework to ensure compliance with the Authority’s statutory obligations and biodiversity duties. Work in partnership with officers and members of the Authority and other stakeholders in achieving this.

• Be a point of contact for ecological matters associated with the planning function of the Authority
• Support the provision of professional specialist and technical advice on planning related ecological and biodiversity matters, including nutrient issues
• Assist the Senior Planning Ecologist with the development of advice, policy and guidance, including drafting Supplementary Planning Guidance where appropriate
• Provide advice and comment for pre‑application enquiries, planning applications and consented developments affecting landscape features, designated sites and features, and priority habitats and species within the timescales set out by the Development Management process
• Assist when seeking Planning Obligations to secure biodiversity enhancements where applicable
• Assist on developing processes and undertake ongoing monitoring of sites to ensure implementation of biodiversity gains and protected species mitigation secured through the planning process
• Assist the Senior Planning Ecologist on providing Appropriate Assessments on behalf of the Competent Authority regarding potential effects of development on European Designations
• Assist on responding to Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) screening and scoping requests, and to provide comment on Environmental Statements submitted to the Authority
• Represent or assist in representing the Authority as required in public meetings, planning appeals, public inquiries, court cases and when required by Members in Authority committee meetings
• Provide advice, comment and quality control for assessments, method statements and works associated with any Statutory Undertakers overhead or underground transmission or pipeline, particularly where such works affect land owned by the BBNPA, landscape features, designated sites and features, and priority habitats and species. Provide conservation advice on reinstatement, restoration and any ecological enhancement works carried out in relation to Statutory Undertakers' work
• Carry out any additional duties appropriate to the grade and nature of the post as occasionally required by the Director of Planning and Place or the Chief Executive

Skills and Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent in Ecology or a related subject
• Knowledge and understanding of legislation, policy and guidance affecting natural resource management and development management
• Knowledge and understanding of ecology, survey methodologies, habitat management and restoration
• Good understanding of how the natural environment is affected by development and how those features can be conserved, restored and enhanced; knowledge of where to source relevant expert advice
• Good IT skills, including use of MS Office software and Document Management systems
• Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of organisations and individuals, including members of the public, applicants and agents
• Ability to work under pressure
• Organisational and interpersonal skills required to support complex work areas and meet deadlines
• Capability to work on own initiative and as part of a team, demonstrating flexibility in the approach to work as required by the service
• Diplomatic skills for dealing with the public, National Park Members, staff and other stakeholders
• A valid and full driving licence
• Welsh Language Level 0

To Apply

If you consider yourself a suitable candidate and wish to work for a reputable organisation, please apply via the provided link to complete your application.