Habitats Ecologist, 9 Month FTA (Scottish Forestry)
Job description
Scottish Forestry is the Scottish Government agency responsible for the regulation of forestry activity, forestry policy and grant incentives. We aim to protect and expand Scotland’s forests and woodlands and increase their value to society and the environment.
This post will provide technical expertise and advice on open habitats to inform various aspects of Scottish Forestry’s work. In particular, the role will be involved in supporting other Scottish Forestry staff with a range of casework, including woodland creation proposals that are subject to the Forestry (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2017. As the Scottish Government is committed to creating 18,000 hectares of woodland a year across Scotland the EIA regulations form a major part of our approval process.
In addition, the postholder will support the development of policies and guidance relating to open habitats. The priority in this regard will be to develop a consistent approach to identifying and assessing priority habitats. The role will include site visits and liaison with a range of internal and external stakeholders, including staff in other Scottish Government agencies and in the private forestry sector.
This post is based in the Sustainable Forest Management team that forms part of the wider Policy & Practice department, and the Habitats Ecologist will report to the Environment Policy Advisor. The Sustainable Forest Management team provides national leadership on forestry policy, standards and evidence, promoting the sustainable management of Scotland's forests and woodlands. The team develops guidance, supports implementation of the UK Forestry Standard, and works to balance environmental, economic and social objectives in support of Scotland's Forestry Strategy.
Key Job Criteria:
- Experience of the main vegetation classification systems used in Scotland, including the National Vegetation Classification (NVC), UK Habitat Classification (UKHab), and Phase 1 Habitat Survey, and understand how these are applied in ecological assessment, policy, and woodland creation contexts.
- Degree (or equivalent experience) in ecology, environmental science or a related discipline
- Track record of making effective decisions
Where a vacancy attracts a higher number of applications, only ‘Behaviour 1 - lead criteria’ will be assessed at sift stage.
You can view our Privacy Notice on our website at https://www.forestry.gov.scot/privacy-notice
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Contact Details:
Forestry and Land Scotland Recruitment Team
