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05 November 2026

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Ecologist (6 month Contract)

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Ecologist (6m Contract

Location: Remote
Contract: 6 months
Hours: 28-36 hours per week
Start: Within 6-8 weeks

I'm currently working with a Local Planning Authority that is looking to bring in an experienced Senior or Principal Ecologist on an interim basis to support its Development Management team.

With an increasing volume of planning applications and ecological consultations, they need someone who can hit the ground running, take ownership of technical reviews and provide reliable ecological advice to support planning decisions.

This is a great opportunity for an experienced ecological consultant looking for a varied interim assignment, with flexibility around working arrangements and no requirement for regular office attendance.

The Role

You'll be providing specialist ecological support across a range of planning applications, with responsibilities including:

  • Reviewing planning applications and associated ecological reports, including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs) and protected species surveys.

  • Assessing Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) submissions, including biodiversity metric calculations, habitat plans and monitoring proposals.

  • Providing technical advice to planning officers on protected species, habitats and designated sites.

  • Reviewing ecological information against relevant environmental legislation, planning policy and guidance.

  • Providing clear recommendations and professional advice to support planning decisions.

  • Helping to manage an existing backlog of ecological consultations.

  • About You

    I'm keen to speak with ecologists who can demonstrate:

  • Significant experience at Senior Ecologist, Principal Ecologist or equivalent level.

  • Strong experience reviewing ecological reports and assessing planning applications.

  • A good understanding of the planning system and development management process.

  • Practical experience with Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), including metric calculations and habitat plans.

  • Strong technical knowledge of protected species, habitats, relevant legislation and planning policy.

  • The ability to work independently, manage workloads and provide advice with minimal supervision.

  • Previous Local Planning Authority experience would be advantageous, although experienced ecological consultants with a strong planning background will also be considered.

    What's on Offer?

  • Initial 6-month interim contract.

  • Flexible working of 28-36 hours per week.

  • Remote working available, with optional office attendance

  • Anticipated start within 6-8 weeks.

  • An opportunity to make an immediate impact within a busy planning service.

  • Interested?

    If you're an experienced Senior or Principal Ecologist with strong planning and BNG experience and are open to an interim opportunity, I'd be keen to have a confidential conversation.

    Get in touch to discuss the assignment in more detail.

    About us Allen & York have been matching purposeful people with purpose-led organisations for 30 years. We partner with our clients and candidates on roles that build an understanding of climate change, promote sustainability and create inclusive and responsible organisations, working towards a sustainable world for us all. Committed to inclusiveness in the workplace, we aim to increase diversity across all areas and therefore welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their ethnicity, race, gender, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, age, or whether or not they have a disability. Let us help build a better world, together.Apply for this job