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- Tasks: Support farmers in biodiversity auditing using a digital tool.
- Company: Join NatureScot, a leader in environmental conservation.
- Benefits: Flexible working options and potential for job sharing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable farming and biodiversity.
- Qualifications: Ecological knowledge and digital tech skills required.
- Other info: Work with a dynamic team and travel for farm visits.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Job Purpose Summary
This role is an exciting opportunity to join NatureScot’s Farming with Nature team to support the Farm Biodiversity Project. A biodiversity audit is a key part of the development of sustainable farming support under the Scottish Government’s Agricultural Reform Programme, and one of the elements required as part of the Whole Farm Plan. The project aims to create a simple and easy to use farm biodiversity auditing, planning and management process, which could be completed by any farmer or crofter using a digital tool. The process involves four main steps – to Map, Measure, Manage and Monitor habitats (and species). Under the project, we are working closely with farmers and crofters to explore the support they need to undertake this.
The Farm Biodiversity Scotland mobile app and web platform (otherwise known as FarmBioScot) is a flagship digital tool being developed and tested with the aim of helping farmers and crofters audit, plan and manage biodiversity on their land. It is owned by NatureScot and free to use for farmers and crofters. We have developed and are piloting the first steps of the project (Map – baseline habitat mapping, and Measure – habitat condition assessment) with farmers and crofters using FarmBioScot. Further development will be required to take account of testing to date, and to develop and pilot the remaining steps through the app and web platform.
You will support the ongoing development and delivery of FarmBioScot, and support the technical side of this work, ensuring the smooth delivery and development of FarmBioScot, working with contractors and the Farm Biodiversity Project team and other NatureScot staff. This is a rare development opportunity to be at the bleeding edge of innovation in the Agri-environment sector, combining land management, ecology and modern technology.
Location is flexible – either in a NatureScot office or being home based, but you must be prepared to travel to central locations for project meetings, or for occasional farm visits. Job sharing is possible. A level of flexibility is expected to work across other Farming with Nature tasks if needed.
Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities
As a member of the Farm Biodiversity Project team, you will be line managed by the Farm Biodiversity Project Manager but also work under the direction of the Specialist Advisor who has the lead role in the development of FarmBioScot.
Whilst input may be required across the Project as a whole, the focus will be on the more technical aspects of delivery and more specifically you will:
Skills (Please refer to these in your Supporting Statement)
We are looking for:
1. A positive attitude to helping deliver team goals, including the ability to work collaboratively within a dispersed team and work flexibly to accommodate a range of tasks as required.
2.Aptitude and interest in modern technology with experience or knowledge of using nature-focussed apps and willingness to develop your understanding of their functionality. Ideally with experience of working on digital metrics or tools for recording biodiversity.
3. Ability to work across teams and work areas and make connections with other projects and initiatives
4. Excellent organisational and time management skills with the ability to effectively prioritise workload in a fast moving and agile project, including task delegation and an ability to respond and react quickly to deadlines.
5.Excellent communication skills, verbal and written, including presentation skills. With experience of presenting technical information to a range of audiences in an engaging way and creating visuals to support training and communication materials.
6. Experience of conducting user research, or surveys to gather feedback on a project or initiative
7. An understanding of Scottish farming systems and the range of habitats found.
Farm Biodiversity Project Officer - D Grade employer: NatureScot
Contact Detail:
NatureScot Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Farm Biodiversity Project Officer - D Grade
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Farm Biodiversity Scotland app and web platform. Understanding how these tools work will not only help you in your role but also demonstrate your commitment to the project during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the agricultural and environmental sectors. Attend relevant workshops or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and stakeholders, which can give you insights into the role and its expectations.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current agricultural policies and biodiversity initiatives in Scotland. This knowledge will be crucial in discussions and will show your proactive approach to understanding the context of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with ecological assessments and digital tools. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've used technology in a rural context, as this aligns closely with the job requirements.
We think you need these skills to ace Farm Biodiversity Project Officer - D Grade
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. Focus on your ecological knowledge, digital technology aptitude, and any experience with agricultural practices.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: In your supporting statement, clearly address how your background meets the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. Use specific examples to demonstrate your understanding of biodiversity and your ability to work collaboratively with farmers and stakeholders.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is crucial for this role, include examples of how you've effectively communicated complex information to diverse audiences. Highlight any experience in report writing or presentations related to environmental projects.
Highlight Organisational Skills: Given the fast-paced nature of the project, emphasise your organisational and time management skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed multiple tasks or projects simultaneously, especially in an agile environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at NatureScot
✨Showcase Your Ecological Knowledge
Make sure to highlight your understanding of various habitats found on farm and croft land in Scotland. Be prepared to discuss specific management requirements and the impacts of agricultural activities on biodiversity.
✨Demonstrate Digital Aptitude
Since the role involves using digital tools like the FarmBioScot app, be ready to talk about your experience with technology in a rural context. Share examples of how you've used apps or websites to support agricultural practices.
✨Emphasise Communication Skills
This position requires excellent verbal and written communication skills. Prepare to discuss how you can adapt your communication style for different audiences, especially when liaising with farmers and stakeholders.
✨Prepare for Agile Project Management
Given the fast-paced nature of the project, be ready to explain how you manage your time and prioritise tasks effectively. Share examples of how you've successfully worked in agile environments and handled tight deadlines.
