Senior Planning Ecologist

About the Role

Swansea Council is seeking a motivated, experienced Planning Ecologist to join our Nature Recovery Team within the Natural Environment Section. You will work with colleagues across the Council as well as external stakeholders to promote nature recovery and help deliver development that provides a net benefit for biodiversity.

You will be expected to provide clear, practical ecological advice on planning applications, development proposals, planning policy, appeals and at public inquiries.

Your role will also involve coordinating biodiversity surveys and datasets, contributing to relevant plans, policies and strategies, and championing best practice across the Council and with external stakeholders. You will also support the work of the wider Nature Recovery Team where appropriate.

The Post is full time and permanent.

• A relevant degree (or equivalent) as well as CIEEM membership (or working towards)
• You will also have a postgraduate qualification and/or relevant experience
• Strong ecological survey skills (e.g. Phase 1/UKHab, NVC, protected species) and a sound knowledge of legislation and policy
• You will ideally have a Natural Resources Wales bat survey licence (or be working towards one). Additional protected species licences would be an advantage
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to produce high-quality, succinct technical reports
• Being diligent, professional and enthusiastic, with excellent time management skills

Swansea is one of the most ecologically rich and diverse counties in the UK with over 50% of the county's area being of significant biodiversity value. Its unique variety of habitats and species and wonderful range of parks, green spaces, nature reserves, beaches and landscapes need to be maintained, enhanced and sustainably managed for the benefit of people and wildlife now and into the future.