Ecologist (Part-Time)
Location: Wendling Beck, Norfolk (on-site for surveys; flexible remote working for
reporting and planning)
Duration: 12 months (starting as soon as possible, early 2026 latest)
Hours: Part-time, 2–3 days per week (with flexibility during peak survey windows)
Salary: Pro rata equivalent to £40,000 FTE (subject to experience)
Reports to: Habitat Delivery & Monitoring Manager
Supported by: Junior Ecologist (MSc qualified, part-time)
About Wendling Beck
Wendling Beck is a pioneering nature restoration and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) habitat banking project in Norfolk.
The project brings together landowners, academics, eNGOs, infrastructure partners, Norfolk County Council and local stakeholders to restore and enhance habitats across c. 2,000 hectares, delivering measurable biodiversity uplift and environmental resilience.
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced Ecologist to provide maternity cover within the Wendling Beck project team for approximately 12 months.
This is a hands-on role focused on habitat condition monitoring, adaptive management, and stakeholder coordination, ensuring the project continues to meet its ecological objectives and statutory BNG obligations.
You will play a key role in implementing and refining our Habitat Monitoring and Management Plan (HMMP), coordinating survey data, supporting adaptive management decisions, and ensuring high-quality ecological reporting.
Key Responsibilities
• Habitat Monitoring & Condition Assessment
o Lead seasonal habitat condition and BNG monitoring surveys across a
range of habitats (grassland, scrub, watercourse, hedgerow, wetland,
woodland, etc.) using UKHab classification and Defra BNG condition
assessment protocols.
o Ensure consistency and accuracy of data collection using the Correo
platform (training provided).
o Coordinate and quality-assure survey data collected by the supporting
ecologist and external consultants.
• Reporting & Data Management
o Prepare concise and accurate survey summaries, BNG condition reports
and HMMP update notes.
o Manage spatial and ecological data (GIS familiarity beneficial) and ensure
integration with internal reporting systems.
o Track and document habitat changes, management interventions and
ecological outcomes.
• Adaptive Management & HMMP Review
o Review and refine the existing Habitat Monitoring and Management
Plan, identifying opportunities for adaptive management or improved
monitoring approaches.
o Provide informed, evidence-based recommendations for iterative plan
updates and management improvements of existing habitat.
o Advise and input into delivery team strategy for establishment of new
habitat areas
• Stakeholder Communication & Collaboration
o Work closely with Wendling Beck’s leadership team, land management
project manager, graziers, contractors, and partner ecologists.
o Support clear, open communication that builds understanding, trust and
alignment across all parties.
o Attend site meetings and contribute to decision-making around timing,
management, and ecological interventions.
• Compliance & Assurance
o Support internal and external ecological audit processes related to BNG
and habitat banking.
o Ensure ecological monitoring and reporting meet project and regulatory
standards.
Key Skills & Competencies
• Technical Ecology
o Strong applied knowledge of UKHab and BNG condition assessment
methodologies.
o Proven ability to plan, undertake and lead ecological and habitat
condition surveys.
o Confidence interpreting and reviewing habitat management plans and
adaptive management frameworks.
• Technology & Data
o Comfortable using digital tools for data collection, mapping and reporting
(Correo experience desirable; training provided).
o Familiarity with GIS (e.g. QGIS, ArcGIS) advantageous.
o Competent in Excel and report preparation.
• Communication & Collaboration
o Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, able to work
effectively with a range of stakeholders from farmers to regulators.
o Ability to convey ecological concepts clearly and constructively to non-
specialists.
o Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Professional Judgement
o Confidence to challenge and contribute to continuous improvement in
ecological management.
o Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high ecological and
reporting standards.
Qualifications & Experience
Essential:
• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years professional experience in ecological survey and habitat
management.
• Demonstrable experience with UKHab and BNG metric/condition
assessments.
• Strong written reporting and analytical skills.
• Valid UK driving licence and ability to work on site as required.
Desirable:
• Postgraduate qualification (e.g. MSc in Ecology, Conservation, Environmental
Management).
• CIEEM membership (Associate or above).
• Experience with large-scale habitat restoration or BNG delivery projects.
• GIS skills.
• Familiarity with the Correo survey platform or similar digital data systems.
What We Offer
• Opportunity to contribute to one of the UK’s most ambitious landscape-scale
restoration and BNG projects.
• Collaborative, supportive working environment with a multi-disciplinary team.
• Flexible working pattern (2–3 days per week, including seasonal flexibility).
• Pro rata salary equivalent to £40,000 FTE, dependent on experience.
• Professional development opportunities including training on Correo and
project-specific methodologies.
Application Process
Please submit a CV and short covering statement outlining your relevant experience and interest in the role to info@wendlingbeck.org.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
