Job Description

Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils are looking to recruit an Assistant Ecologist to join our team based in Ipswich, Suffolk. You will join us on a full-time, permanent basis. The successful candidate will earn a competitive salary of £30,559 - £35,235 per annum (pro-rata for part-time). Full-time, part-time, and job share opportunities will be considered.

What we are looking for

We are seeking an Assistant Ecologist to join our Planning Service to help assess the impacts on biodiversity arising from planning applications. The successful person will share our values, commitment, and motivation to make a difference for our communities, clients, and the environment.

About the role

This is an exciting opportunity to join our team, passionate about protecting and improving the district’s rich environment. You will take responsibility for:

• Promoting the delivery of measurable Biodiversity Net Gain on planning applications
• Undertaking detailed reviews of ecological surveys and reports (e.g., Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Bat Surveys, Great Crested Newt Assessments) submitted with planning applications
• Identifying gaps in ecological information and requesting additional surveys, biodiversity enhancements, mitigation strategies, or licenses where necessary
• Recommending ecological mitigation measures, such as wildlife-sensitive lighting
• Advising on legal and planning requirements for protected species, habitats, and designated sites
• Providing clear, evidence-based recommendations to Planning Officers, Developers, and other stakeholders through formal consultation responses
• Collaborating with developers and consultants to integrate ecological opportunities into development designs
• Monitoring compliance with conditions and providing ongoing advice for adaptive management and ecological outcomes

A full UK driver’s license is required.

About you

To succeed in this role, you should be:

• Educated to Bachelor’s Degree level or equivalent in a relevant subject, with evidence of professional development and membership or working towards membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., CIEEM)
• Aware of development management processes, ecological assessments, habitat and species identification, survey techniques, and office and site practices
• Capable of making informed, independent decisions, proactive, and innovative
• Effective at managing workload to meet deadlines
• Computer literate, experienced with GIS systems and databases
• Possessing strong analytical, communication, and report-writing skills

About us

We work across our Councils and with partners to serve our community of 190,000 residents. We are proud of our role in shaping the environment, economy, and communities in our districts. Suffolk is a beautiful place to live and work, with conservation areas and landscapes that make it a top UK location.

Benefits of working for us

• Opportunities for learning and development
• Generous leave entitlement (26 days, increasing to 31 days after 5 years, plus bank holidays)
• Competitive Local Government Pension Scheme
• Wellbeing Support Program, Employee Assistance Program, Healthcare Options

Our ways of working

We support a hybrid working model combining office, home, and remote work, depending on business needs. We are committed to equality and providing opportunities for all.

Closing date: 5 pm, 17 June 2025

If you believe you have what it takes to succeed as an Assistant Ecologist, even if you don’t meet all the requirements, we encourage you to apply. We look forward to considering your application.

This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, vulnerable adults, and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

DBS checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts. #LI-Hybrid