Drive Nature Recovery Across Devon

Are you passionate about protecting and enhancing nature? We’re looking for a highly motivated and experienced ecologist to join our Natural Environment Team and help shape the future for Devon’s wildlife and landscapes.

You’ll be part of the Environmental Sustainability Group, which brings together expertise in climate and sustainability, ecology, heritage, landscape, flood and coastal risk. Our team leads on exciting initiatives, including:

• Restoration of large quarries across the county to wildlife habitat
• Working with partners to develop strategic approaches to the conservation of greater horseshoes, beavers, dormice and water voles
• Working with Devon Wildlife Trust and the Devon Biodiversity Records Centre to designate and monitor county wildlife sites
• Continuing to roll out Biodiversity Net Gain across Devon
• Working with wildlife experts and partners to finalise and implement the Devon Local Nature Recovery Strategy
• Coordinating the Devon Local Nature Partnership

We provide expert advice within Devon County Council as well as for other Devon Local Planning Authorities, including Dartmoor National Park Authority, and work on a range of projects across the county.

About the Role
You will:

• Provide specialist ecological planning advice, working closely with planners, developers, consultants, Natural England, NGOs, and researchers.
• Advise on protected and priority species and habitats, quarry restoration schemes, monitoring, Biodiversity Net Gain, and develop guidance and strategies.
• Offer specialist ecological advice within Devon County Council, including on infrastructure schemes (e.g. roads, cycle routes, waste sites, schools) and estate management.
• Support and train colleagues and partners, and line manage junior team members.
• Contribute to wider wildlife projects and partnerships.

We’re Looking For

• Substantial experience of planning and wildlife, including: legislation and policy, survey and impact assessments, mitigation and monitoring, Biodiversity Net Gain, HRA, European Protected Species (particularly bats and dormice).
• Broad knowledge of species and habitats in Devon, including habitat survey and condition assessment, creation, restoration and management.
• Strong people and networking skills with experience of collaborative working in the nature sector.
• EPS licence holder (particularly bats and dormice) or ability to obtain licences quickly.
• Good botanical knowledge (minimum of FISC level 3 equivalent)
• Ability to present complex ecological and legislative issues in plain English.
• Strategic and creative thinker, able to develop and negotiate positive outcomes for wildlife

Why Devon?
Devon County Council is committed to a green Devon for future generations. Join us and make a lasting impact in one of the UK’s most beautiful and environmentally diverse counties.

Apply Now: Principal Ecologist | Apply Now