Biodiversity Project Officer

About the role

Are you passionate about protecting nature and creating thriving green spaces? Do you want the opportunity to shape biodiversity policy across an entire borough, engaging with leader and elected members to leave a lasting environmental legacy?

We are looking for a Biodiversity Project Officer to help deliver our ambition to make Crawley cleaner, greener, healthier and more resilient. This is an exciting opportunity to establish habitat banks and innovative nature-recovery initiatives and ensure nature recovery is embedded in our development and planning processes.

Working within our Sustainability team, you will work with Parks and Conservation, Built Environment and Planning teams to help deliver ambitious action plans focused on halting biodiversity loss, improving habitats, and increasing the value of green spaces for our residents.

You will:

• lead on Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) delivery for council-led development projects
• undertake or commission ecology and habitat surveys
• develop and oversee biodiversity management plans
• support the creation of a borough-wide biodiversity action plan
• establish and progress habitat banks and attract investment in green infrastructure
• work collaboratively with colleagues, communities and external partners to maximise biodiversity outcomes
• identify and secure external funding and grants

You will also liaise with ecologists across the region to help deliver local nature recovery strategies. This role will include outdoor site work and engagement with a wide range of stakeholders, offering a varied and hands-on working environment.

We are looking for someone who can combine technical ecological expertise with strong communication and project delivery skills.

You will bring:

• a strong understanding of biodiversity, habitat management and ecological planning
• knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain, the Environment Act 2021 and planning policy
• experience in applying BNG metrics and delivering biodiversity enhancements
• experience of undertaking and commissioning ecological surveys and producing clear, accessible reports
• experience working with stakeholders and managing environmental projects
• a degree (or equivalent experience) in ecology, environmental management or a related field

You’ll also be highly organised, proactive and able to work independently while contributing positively to a collaborative team environment.

Crawley is a great place to work, with a thriving business district and excellent transport connections including nearby Gatwick Airport. We are based in our modern Town Hall which opened in 2023 and is located a short walk from the town centre and railway station.

Additional information

Fixed term contract for two years (with potential for extension if funding allows)

Ability to travel independently around the borough to undertake site visits is required.

We operate a flexible hybrid working model, typically combining site visits, office collaboration and home working.

Employee benefits

We offer a generous employee benefits package, with a range of discounts, benefits and wellbeing incentives to suit everyone.

At Crawley Borough Council, you will have access to a structured programme of learning from day one, designed to help you succeed in your role and grow your career.

Our way of working

Our shared values and behaviours reflect the special nature of our council. We encourage all colleagues to put them into practice, whatever job they do. Take a look to see if we are the perfect match.

Safer recruitment

Crawley Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We want to be an inclusive and diverse employer of first choice reflecting the community we serve and particularly welcome applications from all under represented groups.

How to apply

Click the Apply button to complete your application online. Please ensure that the reference details you supply are for your current or most recent employer and that any gaps in employment are covered on your application form. Please note that CVs will not be accepted without a fully completed application form.

We recommend that you submit your application as soon as possible, as we may close this advert before the stated closing date if enough applications are received.

For an informal conversation or further information regarding the role, email [email protected], Sustainability Manager, or call on 01293 438684.