Plant Conservation Ecologist

About the Position

Natural England is the government’s statutory adviser on the natural environment, responsible for protecting England’s most important landscapes, wildlife, and habitats. We are recruiting a Plant Conservation Ecologist to provide specialist botanical expertise and support the delivery of national plant conservation strategies.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert botanical advice on SSSI designation, condition assessment, and management
• Lead national plant conservation programmes for priority species and habitats
• Assess and advise on biodiversity net gain proposals relating to plant communities
• Contribute to national habitat mapping and monitoring programmes
• Collaborate with conservation organisations, research institutions, and land managers
• Support casework and planning consultations involving rare and protected plant species

What You’ll Work On

You will play a key role in implementing England’s plant conservation priorities under the Environment Act 2021 and the Environmental Improvement Plan. Work includes advising on the protection of ancient woodlands, species-rich grasslands, and blanket bogs, as well as supporting the UK’s targets under the Global Biodiversity Framework. The role combines policy influence with hands-on fieldwork and offers a meaningful career in public service conservation.