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- Tasks: Support nature restoration and climate initiatives while advising on planning and renewable energy.
- Company: Join NatureScot, Scotland’s leading agency for nature conservation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a generous holiday allowance, flexible working, and a strong pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in protecting Scotland's natural environment and engage with diverse stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of ecology, planning systems, and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Flexible home and hybrid working options available across beautiful northern Scotland.
The predicted salary is between 41567 - 41567 ÂŁ per year.
Grade: D | Hours: 35 | Vacancy type: Permanent | Salary ÂŁ41,567 | Location: Lerwick, Kirkwall, Ullapool, Golspie, Elgin, Aberdeen, Inverness, Fort William, Battleby, Stornoway, South Uist, Oban Lochgilphead (other locations will be considered). Home & hybrid working possible. Closing date: Midnight on 4th May 2026.
Job Purpose
NatureScot is Scotland’s Nature Agency. This full‑time role works as part of the National Operations team, delivering NatureScot’s priorities relating to nature restoration, climate change, and the creation of nature rich places. The post holder will provide advice to local authorities, developers, land managers and partners on planning, renewable energy, marine licences, and related biodiversity and climate strategies.
Key Responsibilities
- Advisory support on Town and Country planning, renewable energy proposals, marine licences and other regulatory casework.
- Contribute to major initiatives such as the development of nature networks, the 30Ă—30 target, the enhancement of protected areas, and marine and coastal projects.
- Interpret complex information and make decisions based on sound analysis and judgement.
- Engage with stakeholders to build positive relationships and support NatureScot’s aims in external arenas.
- Work flexibly within the North Operations Area, covering Highlands, Grampian, Perthshire, Argyll, Outer Hebrides, Orkney and Shetland.
Skills and Qualifications
- Knowledge of ecology and habitats across northern Scotland, including protection, enhancement and management.
- An understanding of the Planning System and NatureScot’s statutory role in planning casework.
- Understanding of nature‑based solutions and the ability to communicate bespoke solutions to local needs.
- Ability to interpret complex information and make decisions based on sound analysis.
- Knowledge of NatureScot’s stakeholders and awareness of the political environment.
- Creativity and versatility, with proven ability to progress independently.
- Strong verbal and written communication, influencing and engagement skills.
- Team‑player who demonstrates empathy and commitment to overall team performance.
Prerequisites
- Eligible to live and work in the UK and resident in Scotland for the duration of the contract.
- Will undertake a Disclosure Scotland application.
- Knowledge of Gaelic is desirable but not required.
Benefits
- Civil Service pension scheme with an employer contribution of 28.97%.
- Generous holiday allowance of 41.5 days plus 5 fixed public holidays.
- Paid volunteering leave, flexi‑time, flexible working options.
- Employee assistance programme and well‑being support.
- Cycle to work and electric vehicle salary sacrifice schemes.
- Access to employee discount schemes, learning and development.
Equal Opportunities
NatureScot is committed to diversity and encourages applications from people from Minority Ethnic backgrounds and people with disabilities.
1013-407/408/409 Operations Officer - North - D grade - April 2026 employer: Nature
Contact Detail:
Nature Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 1013-407/408/409 Operations Officer - North - D grade - April 2026
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in your field on LinkedIn or at local events. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Knowing about NatureScot's initiatives will show you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills align with the role of Operations Officer. Keep it concise and engaging to leave a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace 1013-407/408/409 Operations Officer - North - D grade - April 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Operations Officer. We want to see how you can contribute to NatureScot’s mission, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant knowledge!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since strong verbal and written communication is key for this role, ensure your application reflects this. Use clear and concise language, and don’t forget to proofread for any typos or errors. We love a well-presented application!
Highlight Your Team Spirit: Being a team player is crucial for us at NatureScot. Share examples of how you've worked collaboratively in the past, and how you’ve contributed to team success. We’re looking for someone who can engage positively with stakeholders and colleagues alike!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our organisation there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Nature
✨Know Your NatureScot Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into NatureScot's mission and recent projects. Familiarise yourself with their priorities on nature restoration and climate change. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you relate your skills to their goals.
✨Master the Planning System
Brush up on your knowledge of the Planning System in Scotland. Be ready to discuss how you can provide advisory support on planning and renewable energy proposals. Having specific examples from your past experience will make your answers stand out.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you've built relationships with stakeholders in previous roles. Prepare to share examples of how you’ve engaged with various parties to achieve common goals. This will demonstrate your ability to work collaboratively, which is key for this role.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Be prepared to discuss how you interpret complex information and make decisions based on sound analysis. Think of scenarios where you've had to analyse data or situations and how that led to successful outcomes. This will highlight your critical thinking abilities.