Biodiversity Conservation Officer

Role Overview

As an integral member of the Biodiversity Team within the County Council, your primary responsibility will be to support the Council's biodiversity initiatives. Collaborating closely with the Principal Ecology Officer, you will engage with various departments including Planning, Climate Change, and Rural Estates to ensure a cohesive approach to environmental stewardship.

Key Responsibilities

Biodiversity Strategy Implementation

• Assessing and responding to planning proposals to uphold the Council's obligations in conserving and enhancing biodiversity.
• Providing expert ecological advice on planning matters, including pre-application consultations.
• Assisting in the execution of the Council's biodiversity strategy and related policies through collaborative efforts with internal teams.
• Conducting ecological surveys and preparing comprehensive reports.
• Offering in-house ecological guidance.
• Supporting the advancement of the Council's Biodiversity Strategy, Tree & Woodland Strategy, and Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS).

Biodiversity Project Development

• Contributing to the strategic direction of partnership initiatives aimed at enhancing the natural environment, including community-driven nature recovery efforts.
• Designing and executing biodiversity projects aligned with the Council's Climate Change & Environment Strategy and statutory responsibilities.
• Representing the Council in partnerships, including the County Wildlife Sites Panel and Biodiversity Working Group.

Monitoring and Reporting

• Ensuring accessibility and interpretation of information related to biodiversity targets and ecological data.
• Overseeing the condition of nature conservation sites and collaborating with local record centers to maintain updated ecological information.
• Keeping abreast of the Council's biodiversity action planning responsibilities and available data from various sources.

Candidate Profile

To excel in this position, we seek an individual who:

• Is adept at evaluating complex ecological data.
• Understands ecological planning challenges, with experience in prioritizing planning application responses and compiling reports.
• Can provide habitat management advice for nature reserves and biodiversity sites.
• Is skilled in engaging with local communities and advising on significant Council projects.
• Has a track record of developing and implementing new policies.
• Can make informed decisions independently.
• Demonstrates proactivity and initiative in generating innovative ideas.
• Effectively manages workload to meet deadlines within a dynamic team environment.
• Is proficient in computer applications, including GIS systems and databases.

Benefits

We value our employees and offer a range of benefits beyond standard offerings such as annual leave and pension plans:

• A comprehensive wellbeing program addressing all aspects of health and wellness.
• The option to purchase up to 4 additional weeks of annual leave through a salary sacrifice scheme.
• Flexible use of bank holidays to accommodate personal needs.
• Opportunities for professional development, including apprenticeships and coaching.
• Paid volunteering hours to positively impact the community.
• Access to Peer Support Groups through our equality, diversity, and inclusion network.
• Recognition through Employee Awards for outstanding contributions.
• Discounts through our Cambs Rewards program and options for Car Lease and Cycle to Work schemes.