Our vision is that the nations forests will provide the most valuable places for wildlife to thrive and expand in England. Our Area Ecologists play a key role in the delivery of that vision by providing ecological advice and inspiring others to support our work for nature. The postholder will provide ecological advice to operational teams to ensure species, habitats and designated sites are managed in accordance with wildlife legislation, policy and best practice guidance. The postholder will also carry out monitoring of a range of habitats and species and support our planning and recreation teams in decision making.
This role reports to the District Ecologist and will be based from the Coleford Office in the Forest of Dean.
You will have the opportunity to work with experienced colleagues, passionate about their contribution to sustainable forestry, conservation and the organisations overarching strategy. You will help to connect everyone with the nations forests, caring for them for people to enjoy, wildlife to flourish and business to grow.
You can expect to spend two thirds of your time outdoors, often independently and remotely and you will usually be expected to manage your own time to maximise efficiency and effectiveness. The role is funded by DEFRA rather than Forestry England generated revenue and is therefore subject to government spending reviews.
While DEFRA has indicated long-term support for Forestry Englands Biodiversity Programme and we expect finding to continue, it is possible that funding levels may change at the end of any financial year depending on DEFRAs budget allocations. In the event of funding changes, we would prioritise retaining staff posts wherever possible. This approach is consistent for roles within publicly funded organisations. We are committed to keeping staff informed and supported through any
changes.
The position is a 3-year fixed term appointment with the possibility, but no guarantee, of extension or permanency. The position is a full-time post to work 37 hours per week. Normal working hours are Monday to Thursday 8.30am to 5pm with an hour lunch break; and Friday 8.30am 4.30pm with an hour lunch break. This can be worked flexibly by agreement.
