Biodiversity and Climate Project Support Officer

Huntingdonshire District Council (HDC) is passionate about providing high-quality services to our communities, residents and businesses. This means we must employ and retain the most talented and dedicated people.

Situated within the heart of the Cambridge-Peterborough Growth Area, Huntingdonshire is a beautiful district that boasts thriving market towns and many attractive villages, each with its own identity. We are an innovative and forward-thinking local authority whose residents are at the heart of our decision-making.

At HDC we want to employ staff who embody our **icare** values (**Inspiring, Collaborative, Accountable, Respectful, Enterprising**), all of which support our ultimate purpose of putting our customers first.

**Job details**:
Are you passionate about biodiversity, climate action and making a real impact in your community? Do you thrive in a role where you can engage with local stakeholders, support meaningful projects and contribute to a greener future? If so, this could be the perfect opportunity for you

As a Biodiversity and Climate Project Support Officer, you will play a key role in supporting 2 vital projects:

- Biodiversity for All - a nature restoration initiative investing in tree planting and wildflower areas to create a more sustainable future
- Net Zero Villages - a grant funding scheme empowering rural communities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and move towards net zero.

This is an exciting opportunity to work with an internal team, local councils and community groups to drive environmental change. You will provide project and administrative support, ensuring smooth operations from planning to delivery.

**What you'll be doing**:

- Supporting stakeholders, community groups and local councils through the Net Zero Villages grant process
- Assisting in the management, promotion and administration of biodiversity improvement schemes
- Responding to queries and supporting project partners with advice and guidance
- Organising meetings, taking notes and tracking key actions
- Working with HDC's Communications Team to promote both projects via the council's website and social media
- Keeping up to date with relevant legislation on biodiversity and climate initiatives
- Managing project inboxes, responding to public and partner enquiries
- Assisting in the production of reports and monitoring project progress.

**Who we're looking for**:

- You're organised, proactive, and passionate about climate and biodiversity
- You have strong administrative skills with experience in managing databases and grant schemes
- You have excellent communication skills, able to engage with a variety of stakeholders
- You have a keen eye for detail and ability to manage multiple tasks effectively
- You are proficient in Microsoft Office 365, including spreadsheets and databases
- You have a positive, team-oriented attitude with a passion for environmental projects.

A background in local government, knowledge of biodiversity net gain, or experience in grant administration would be advantageous but not essential.

**What's in it for you?**
- The chance to contribute to impactful environmental projects that shape the future of Huntingdonshire
- The opportunity to develop your skills in climate action, community engagement and project support
- A supportive and collaborative work environment where your ideas are valued
- A role that aligns with your passion for sustainability and biodiversity.

An offer of employment is conditional upon having the right to work in the UK. Huntingdonshire District Council does not hold a Sponsorship Licence and is unable to provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) or take over sponsorship for any role.

**Apply**:
The closing date is **9am 21 February 2025** and interviews will be held the week commencing 10 March 2025.

**Please note that the official closing date is as above, and will be the correct date. Some third-party websites may have different dates. Please refer to the HDC website for the official closing date to ensure you do not miss out on applying.**

**Working for the council**:

- Salary
- £23,614
- Hours
- 37 Hours Weekly (12 Month Fixed-Term Contract)
- Location
- Huntingdon
- Contract Type
- Permanent
- Closing Date
- 21 February 2025 09:00