Ecology and Biodiversity Officer (Forestry, Parks & Woodland)

West Lothian Council is looking for experienced and enthusiastic individual who is passionate about forestry/woodland management and the associated ecological and biodiversity benefits that these and other natural habitats can bring.

This new role is fixed term for 2 years and forms part of the Nets, Land and Countryside Service.

The purpose of the role is to provide effective and efficient oversight and progress of the council’s Local Biodiversity Action Plan and Ecological Services with particular focus on forestry, woodland and trees across West Lothian. The post will be ensuring the delivery of a high-quality professional service that maximises the resources available, delivers positive outcomes and meets the needs of our customers and service users.

The role will be responsible for reviewing the council’s land estate and for identifying areas suitable for biodiversity projects and for enhancing existing biodiversity sites in relation to semi natural habitats including forestry, peatland and meadows.

The role will harness community involvement through the community choices agenda and ensure that areas are developed to reflect the needs and aspirations of local communities.

In addition, you will lead on the delivery, planning and implementation of schemes aimed at protecting, managing and improving natural habitats, increasing awareness of conservation within the community and monitoring the sustainable use of land and resources.

You will be responsible ensuring that the Ecology and Biodiversity agenda is and remains a focus for West Lothian Council by developing, delivering and championing related issues at various levels within communities, corporately and with a range of stakeholders.

The role will be expected to write and present reports both corporately and to elected members and will also deliver high level ecology and biodiversity advice. Additionally, the role will work with services to drive the change required to working practices to enhance ecology and biodiversity.

The post reports to the Parks & Countryside Manager.

Applicants should possess

• Qualified to degree level in relevant discipline (ideally Forestry) or suitable equivalent relevant experience.
• Knowledge and understanding of all aspects of ecology and relevant legislation and policy.
• Experience in a nature conservation role.
• Project management skills and experience.

The post is based on a 36hrs, Monday to Friday working pattern.

Closing date: 10 October 2021. 

Apply link: https://www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/search