Assistant Natural Environment Advisor - Band D

Reference: 379732

The Natural Environment Team (NET) provides specialist advice on designated sites, protected species and wider biodiversity issues across the defence estate and operations/activities.

The Team's core areas of work include co-ordinating programmes to meet the MOD, SSSI and Biodiversity targets; undertaking or contracting out species and habitat surveys and specialist ecological input into EIAs, undertaking Appropriate Assessments, securing or assisting with SSSI assents and protected species licences; and writing or overseeing the production of Integrated Rural Management Plans and Conservation Management Plans.

Duties will include advertising on designated sites, protected species and wider biodiversity across the MOD estate and operations, as well as undertaking or contracting-out species and habitat surveys, Ecological Impact Assessments, Habitats Regulations Assessments, securing SSSI assents and protected species licenses.

You will assist with the development of site management plans, maintain good liaison internally with Defence Estates and MOD staff, and externally with Statutory Bodies and Non-Governmental Organisations, as well as develop an understanding and partnership with the Strategic Partner for the Defence Training Estate, Regional Prime Contractors and specialist consultants to ensure effective and efficient liaison and delivery.

Assisting the Team Leader in the production and maintenance of business plans and work programmes is essential, as is undertaking any other reasonable tasks or projects as directed by the Team Leader.

You should hold as a minimum a HNC/HND/BTEC/SCOTVEC in a relevant ecological or environmental management discipline plus relevant experience, and a full and valid Driving Licence. The position is based at Westdown Camp, Wiltshire and will require travel with over-night stays to potentially any MOD site within the UK.

Although not essential, the following are also desirable: relevant 1st or 2nd Class Degree (BSc or MSc), or graduate/standard membership of the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management or other relevant professional institution, detailed understanding of UK conservation legislation, policy, conservation management and its implementation.