Ecologist
Job Description
Job Category :Planning
Location :County Hall, Pembrokeshire County Council
Hours Per Week : 22.00
Start Date : Immediate start
Start Time :09:00
End Time :17:00
Salary: £26.92
Pembrokeshire County Council is seeking to appoint a focussed, dynamic planning ecologist with excellent communications skills to support the delivery of development that enhances the built and natural environment in Pembrokeshire.
The post holder will provide specialist advice and information on ecology (and nutrient neutrality) with regard to the land use planning process primarily in respect of the Local Planning Authority’s Development Management function ensuring compliance with related legislation and policy.
You will need a degree in ecology or related subject with a significant period of relevant experience of work of a similar nature. Knowledge of applicable legislation such as the Habitats Regulations and planning legislation and guidance is also essential. You will be an articulate and effective communicator, self-motivated, organised and highly computer literate, including using GIS and databases. The post is likely to be part time, number of hours dependent on relevant experience and costs associated. This is for a fixed term appointment until the end of December 2025. Home based working will be considered.
1. Advise on appropriate mitigation and provide consultation comments on planning applications in relation to ecological matters.
2. Regularly liaise externally with applicants, planning agents, consultants, developers, consultees, ecological consultants on matters relating to ecological requirements of planning applications.
3. Provide specialist advice to colleagues in Conservation, Planning and other directorates such as Highways, Infrastructure and Projects on a frequent basis, and also the Biodiversity Champion.
4. Provide specialist advice on ecological matters to external stakeholders in relation to other projects where appropriate.
5. Regularly hold discussions with Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority planning and other officers as necessary in accordance with the Service Level Agreement with PCNPA to provide specialist advice and information.
6. Regularly explain and advise on ecological requirements to members of the public when making planning applications.
7. Frequently liaise with Natural Resources Wales – the statutory body – on matters such as planning applications, species licenses and other relevant projects.
8. Respond to consultations in relation to designated sites (SSSIs etc) and assist in the preparation of any other relevant information, including information for web pages.
Person specification – Qualifications, Knowledge, Experience & Skills:
1. Degree in Ecology or related subject with a significant period of relevant working experience undertaking work of a similar nature.
2. Familiarity with planning processes and procedures.
3. Demonstrable knowledge of relevant legislation such as Habitats Regulations, Planning legislation and guidance.
4. Proven clear and concise written and verbal communication skills with experience of technical / administrative customer facing work.
5. Strong IT skills / competence with expertise in the use of databases, spreadsheets and GIS.
6. Evidence of strong research skills with the ability to use and analyse data and to read and interpret plans.
7. Able to demonstrate sound organisational skills and the ability to work with minimum supervision; planning and prioritising own work within deadlines .
8. Experience of undertaking technical and ecological site surveys and analysis.
9. Evidence of being a self-motivated team player with the ability to organise and prioritise work effectively and work to deadlines.
10. Full driving licence.
11. Previous experience of working in a Planning department.
12. Ability to speak and write in Welsh.