Senior Biodiversity Officer

Senior Biodiversity Officer

Organization: Bradford Council / Department of Growth (Countryside Rights of Way Service) via Supportive Bridge Staffing Agency

Location: Bradford, United Kingdom

Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time (37 hours per week)

Salary Range: £34,434.00 - £39,152.00 per annum

Application Closing Date: 4 September 2026

Job Introduction

Take a leading role in conserving, enhancing, and expanding nature conservation across the Bradford District as a Senior Biodiversity Officer!

Supportive Bridge Staffing Agency is proud to partner with Bradford Council to recruit a skilled Senior Biodiversity Officer to join the expanding Biodiversity Team within the Countryside Rights of Way Service.

As part of this growing team, you will help manage vital habitats and designated sites—including West Yorkshire’s first National Nature Reserve (the Bradford Pennine Gateway NNR) and Ilkley Moor—while advising on Biodiversity Duty, Biodiversity Net Gain, habitat banking, and protected species issues across major developments and urban/rural green spaces.

About the Role

As Senior Biodiversity Officer, you will take a senior lead across ecological management, planning consultation, and public engagement to shape sustainable growth and nature conservation. Key responsibilities include:

• Biodiversity Duty & Legislation: Supporting the implementation of the Council’s Biodiversity Duty under the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006.

• Planning & Development Advice: Reviewing planning applications, advising applicants on nature conservation legislation, and monitoring the implementation of Biodiversity Net Gain and protected species provisions.

• Site Management & Habitat Banking: Advising council departments on the management of designated sites (SSSI, SPA, SAC, NNR, LNR, LWS) and contributing to baseline surveys, management plans, and monitoring for Bradford’s habitat bank.

• Community Engagement: Supporting local conservation and "Friends of" groups to develop projects and engage the wider public in raising awareness and understanding of nature.

About You

We are looking for an experienced and passionate ecology professional who brings:

• Strong senior-level experience or advanced education in ecology, environmental management, countryside conservation, or a directly related field.

• In-depth knowledge of UK nature conservation legislation, planning processes, and Biodiversity Net Gain frameworks.

• Excellent communication, advisory, and stakeholder management skills.

• A collaborative approach with a passion for protecting and enhancing urban and rural wildlife habitats.

• Note: The council supports flexible working requirements, including home working and flexible hours.

Why Work for Bradford Council?

Bradford Council offers a supportive, inclusive, and forward-thinking work environment with fantastic employee benefits, including:

• Competitive salary scale (£34,434.00 - £39,152.00 per annum)

• Local Government Pension Scheme and flexible working options (including home working opportunities)

• Professional training, career development, and support

• Access to the RESPECT Allyship Programme and employee wellbeing resources