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- Tasks: Join us as an Ecology Policy and Planning Officer, shaping biodiversity policies and ensuring compliance.
- Company: Be part of the Richmond and Wandsworth Better Service Partnership, dedicated to environmental excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy 40 days annual leave, flexible working, and a generous pension plan.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on ecology while collaborating with a supportive team in a vibrant environment.
- Qualifications: Bring your ecological qualifications and experience in nature conservation management to this exciting role.
- Other info: Hybrid working available; apply early as we may close applications once enough candidates are found.
The predicted salary is between 39471 - 55471 £ per year.
Job Title Ecology Policy and Planning Officer
Permanent, Full time
Location Wandsworth Town Hall , London
Other essential information Hybrid working-a minimum of three days in the office
Objective of role
Richmond and Wandsworth Better Service Partnership has an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic Ecology Policy and Planning Officer to join the Arts, Parks, and Events Service within the Environment and Community Services Directorate. This permanent position is well suited to an individual with relevant ecological qualifications and significant experience in an ecological or biodiversity setting.
As an Ecology Policy and Planning Officer, you will play a proactive role in formulating and implementing the Council’s strategic and policy work in ecology and biodiversity. You will ensure compliance with statutory obligations related to nature conservation and collaborate with various stakeholders to achieve our ecological goals.
The Parks Team is a supportive, collaborative team where effective communication is essential, commitment to providing a quality service is expected, and new ideas for improvements are welcomed. For more information about this role, please see the job description and person specification.
About the role
The specific duties and responsibilities for this role are:
- Ensure compliance with statutory obligations on planning applications related to nature conservation and Biodiversity Net Gain.
- Formulate, recommend, and implement the Borough’s approach to ecology and biodiversity policies and the Local Plan.
- Provide ecological and biodiversity advice and expertise in relation to site management plans and corporate projects.
- Prepare statistical analyses and reports on issues relating to contract service providers\’ performance.
- Carry out site inspections and liaise with officers from other departments as appropriate in relation to ecology and biodiversity.
- Establish and maintain effective information and quality management systems to support the management of ecology and biodiversity.
- Advise and represent the Council on all matters relating to ecology and biodiversity, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation.
- Work with external groups to support volunteer activity in relation to ecology and biodiversity conservation.
- Attend Cabinet, committees, panels, and other public meetings, and present reports as necessary.
Essential Qualifications, Skills and Experience
Knowledge:
- Knowledge of the planning system in relation to protected places, priority habitats and protected and priority species.
- Knowledge of ecological principles such as the “mitigation hierarchy” and familiarly with BS42020.
- Knowledge of the Environment Act and BNG principles.
- Knowledge of reporting and analysing data.
Experience
- Experience of nature conservation management and relevant policy and legislation.
- Experience of successfully delivering a high standard of projects to multiple, competing deadlines.
- Proven significant experience of work in an ecological / biodiversity managerial setting.
Skills
- Problem solving
- Managing a busy workload and knowing what to prioritise
Qualifications
Closing Date: Tuesday 12th August (midnight)
Shortlisting Date: W/C 18th August
Interview Date : Tuesday 26th August and Thursday 28th August
We may close this vacancy early once a sufficient number of applications has been received. Please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Richmond & Wandsworth Better Service Partnership are committed to making our recruitment practices as inclusive as possible for everyone. We are committed to promoting equality and diversity and developing a culture that values differences, recognising that employees from a variety of backgrounds bring important and positive contributions to the Councils and can improve the way we deliver services.
We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer. If you require any reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment and selection process, please let us know.
We are also committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people/vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Some posts may be exempted under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and as such appointment to these posts will be conditional upon the receipt of a satisfactory response to a check of police records via Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
We offer a wide range of benefits designed to attract, develop, and reward our employees such as 40 days annual leave (including Bank Holidays), flexible working and a generous pension plan.
Salary Starting Salary from £39,471 pa based on Skills Knowledge and experience
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Ecology Policy and Planning Officer employer: Richmond and Wandsworth Councils
Contact Detail:
Richmond and Wandsworth Councils Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Ecology Policy and Planning Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local planning system and relevant ecological legislation. Understanding the specific policies and regulations that govern ecology and biodiversity in your area will give you a significant edge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the ecology and biodiversity field. Attend local events or workshops related to environmental policy, as this can help you make valuable connections and learn about the latest trends and challenges in the sector.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with project management and how you've successfully delivered projects under tight deadlines. Be ready to provide specific examples that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to manage competing priorities.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Richmond and Wandsworth's current ecological initiatives and challenges. Being knowledgeable about their ongoing projects will not only show your genuine interest but also allow you to suggest innovative ideas during your interview.
We think you need these skills to ace Ecology Policy and Planning Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant ecological qualifications and experience in biodiversity settings. Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate your fit for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the position and the organisation. Discuss specific experiences that align with the responsibilities of the Ecology Policy and Planning Officer role, such as compliance with statutory obligations or project management.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Emphasise skills that are crucial for the role, such as problem-solving, managing workloads, and effective communication. Provide examples of how you've successfully applied these skills in previous positions.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is essential for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Richmond and Wandsworth Councils
✨Know Your Ecology Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of ecological principles, especially the mitigation hierarchy and the Environment Act. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're well-prepared and knowledgeable about the field.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your experience in nature conservation management and policy implementation. Highlight any projects where you successfully met deadlines while managing competing priorities.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since effective communication is key in this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Be ready to explain complex ecological concepts in a way that’s easy to understand, as you may need to present reports to various stakeholders.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and how you would handle specific situations related to ecology and biodiversity. Think of scenarios where you had to make tough decisions or manage conflicts, and be prepared to discuss your approach.
