Ecology Officer

Are you passionate about biodiversity and have a background in ecology or a related discipline and want to work in one of the most stunning parts of the UK that is home to many nationally and internationally important habitats, species and landscapes? Are you looking for competitive pay and excellent working conditions, including flexible working across a 35-hour week, minimum 28 days annual leave (plus 7 days paid fixed public holiday), a generous pension scheme, full support for CPD and training and employee discounts? If so, this opportunity may be for you!

About the role

Highland Council are looking for an Ecology Officer to join our expanding, busy and friendly Ecology Team. In this role you will help secure the best outcomes for biodiversity by providing advice to the planning authority on a wide range of developments. Ensuring that all developments comply with legislation and provide valuable biodiversity enhancements. You will have the opportunity to make a real and lasting contribution to Highland’s outstanding exceptional natural environment. The role includes travel across the Highlands, allowing exploration of some of the UK’s most beautiful places. The Highland Council supports flexible working, providing a good work-life balance.

About the Highlands

Covering around one-third of mainland Scotland, the Highland Council is the UK’s largest, yet least populated, local authority area. The Highlands boasts an outstanding, world-class and varied natural environment set within and against some of the UK’s most dramatic and scenic natural landscapes, including the Cairngorms National Park, the Isle of Skye, Ben Nevis, Glen Affric, Loch Ness and The Great Glen and the Flow Country World Heritage Site.

Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands, is a historic and vibrant city with the full range of modern services and facilities including an easily accessible modern airport. The Highlands offer an excellent quality of life with all the benefits of urban living, but with easy access to an outstanding natural environment or the opportunity to live in a rural setting.

About you

You will hold a relevant degree level qualification in ecology or a related discipline or have equivalent experience. You will have experience of ecological survey and assessment through ecological consultancy or a similar role. Practical experience and knowledge of the planning system and the application of relevant legislation, policy and guidance would be an advantage. The successful candidate will be comfortable working with a wide range of people, including fellow officers and Council managers, developers, consultants, elected Members, government agencies and the public. You will need to be self-motivated and comfortable using your own initiative and able to manage a varied workload. You will be comfortable undertaking site visits and attending meetings across a large geographical area.

This is a grade HC08/07. Ideally, we are looking for an experienced person suitable for the HC08 grade, but we will consider someone less experienced at the lower grade.

If you would like to discuss this position, please contact Karen Couper, Senior Ecology Officer ([email protected]).