At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic projects and partnerships to support NatureScot's goals in the northern Highlands.
- Company: Join NatureScot, a key player in environmental conservation and community engagement across Scotland.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, including home and hybrid arrangements, with a competitive salary.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on climate change and biodiversity while working in beautiful natural settings.
- Qualifications: HND or equivalent experience in environmental disciplines; knowledge of conservation and local natural history is essential.
- Other info: Diversity is valued; we encourage applications from all backgrounds and communities.
The predicted salary is between 30700 - 43000 £ per year.
This exciting post offers the opportunity to deliver NatureScot priorities across the National Operations North area, by working in partnership to assist several key strategic projects in support of our spatial priorities for delivery of the corporate plan. The post will also support priority work in other parts of the Highlands and Islands and there will be an expectation of being able to work flexibly throughout the area.
The post holder will tackle a diverse portfolio of tasks relating to representing NatureScot in relevant Community Planning Partnerships, economic development partnerships, Agri-Environment and Climate Scheme delivery, and will be the local area lead for NatureScot’s input to The Flow Country World Heritage Site management. The post will also support the development of ‘Saving Nature Outer Hebrides’ project. The post will also involve proactive work to address climate change and reverse biodiversity loss.
Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities:- Area Lead for the delivery of NatureScot’s input to The Flow Country World Heritage Site management, working in partnership on a range of possible tasks with other key stakeholders within the World Heritage Site Working Group.
- Represent NatureScot in Community Planning and other partnerships, influencing these partnerships to help achieve NatureScot’s local priorities through positive relationships with local communities and agencies, and making links between these and The Flow Country World Heritage Site management.
- Act as an Agri-Environment and Climate Scheme case officer.
- Support the development and Project Management of Saving Nature Outer Hebrides including:
- Co-ordinate the development of a Partnership Agreement, Steering Group and Technical Advisory Group.
- Secretariat for Steering Group – Meeting organisation, TOR and minutes taking.
- Secretariat for Technical Advisory Group - Meeting organisation, TOR and minutes taking.
- Operational Plan contract development, tender process delivery and contractor liaison.
- Work with contractors to support development of Operational Plan.
- Reporting and financial management.
- Establish data management requirements.
- Develop a Comms Plan and deliver agreed actions including website management.
- Community engagement plan and delivery.
- Funding source identification including match funding, private finance and Trusts.
- Proof of right to work in UK.
- To undertake a Disclosure Scotland application.
- Although Gaelic language is not a prerequisite it is a desirable skill in support of our commitment to our Gaelic Language Plan.
- HND or equivalent qualification or practical experience in a relevant environmental discipline or countryside management.
- Knowledge of habitats and species conservation and management, land use and natural heritage issues.
- Knowledge of the local area and its natural history.
- Familiarity with the general functions and statutory duties of NatureScot.
- Understanding, preferably including experience of the Agri-Environment and Climate Scheme and other methods to promote positive management of designated sites (SSSIs & Natura sites).
- Understanding, preferably including experience of the Scottish Planning System and Nature Conservation Legislation.
- Good interpersonal skills with an ability to work in partnership, to foster good relations and to encourage actions by others.
- Good communication skills, both written and verbal, including IT.
- Excellent organisational and time management skills and ability to effectively prioritise workload.
- Driving licence or other means of transport.
Before applying for this post; Internal applicants should read the Self Service Guide. External applicants should read the Online Job Application Guide. If you have previously applied for a vacancy with NatureScot you must remove the supporting statement from your profile, before uploading a new version.
Interviews: External candidates will be invited to interview if we are unable to recruit internally. Nature is vital to us all, so it's important that NatureScot represents the people of Scotland. The more diverse our workforce is, the more effectively we can connect everyone with nature. We encourage applications from candidates of all ages and genders, people from ethnic minority groups, people with disabilities, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Operations Officer - North - D Grade employer: Nature Scot
Contact Detail:
Nature Scot Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Officer - North - D Grade
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with NatureScot's current projects and priorities, especially those related to The Flow Country World Heritage Site. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your understanding of their goals during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the environmental sector, particularly those involved in community planning and partnerships. Building these connections can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with Agri-Environment and Climate Schemes, as well as any relevant project management skills. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed similar projects in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your interpersonal and communication skills by engaging in local community events or initiatives related to conservation. This hands-on experience will not only enhance your CV but also provide real-life examples to discuss in your interview.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Officer - North - D Grade
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Job Description: Carefully read the job description for the Operations Officer position. Highlight key responsibilities and required skills, ensuring you understand how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the role. Emphasise your knowledge of environmental disciplines, project management, and community engagement, as these are crucial for this position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only introduces yourself but also explains why you are passionate about the role and how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Mention specific projects or experiences that relate to NatureScot's priorities.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at Nature Scot
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the key responsibilities. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the specific tasks, such as managing partnerships and supporting climate change initiatives.
✨Showcase Your Local Knowledge
Since the role involves working in the northern Highlands, demonstrate your knowledge of the local area and its natural history. This will show your commitment and understanding of the community you will be serving.
✨Prepare for Partnership Discussions
Given the emphasis on representing NatureScot in various partnerships, think about examples from your past where you've successfully collaborated with stakeholders. Be ready to discuss how you can foster positive relationships and influence local priorities.
✨Highlight Your Organisational Skills
The role requires excellent organisational and time management skills. Prepare to provide examples of how you've effectively prioritised workloads and managed multiple projects, especially in a community or environmental context.