Biodiversity Officer

Role Responsibility

The Environment Act 2021 has resulted in significant change to how biodiversity is dealt with at the local government level, placing Kent County Council in an important position as it takes the strategic lead across the county in delivering on the Local Nature Recovery Strategy, Biodiversity Net Gain and the requirements of the strengthened Biodiversity Duty. 

In order to continue providing Kent’s planning authorities with the ecological support they need to discharge their planning duties in a way that meaningfully protects, manages and enhances our rich and diverse biodiversity, and also meet the demands of this new legislation, we are significantly expanding the county’s respected Ecological Advice Service team.

We are looking for ecological professionals with a broad working knowledge of wildlife and the relevant legislation and policy in place to protect and enhance it.  In particular, we need officers who understand the biodiversity net gain requirement and can help our planning authorities ensure that this new policy realises the potential it presents for delivering genuine benefits for nature.  Individuals should have experience of providing high quality, clear and coherent ecological advice, with strong collaborative working and influencing skills.

There has not been a more exciting time to join Kent County Council’s Ecological Advice Service and assist the county not only in environmentally considerate development management, but a new approach to the delivery of nature recovery, that puts local government right at the heart of action.  

Please use the reasons for applying section within the job application to demonstrate your skills and experience relevant to the person specification for the post; applications will be assessed against this.

Closing date for applications is 24^th July, with interviews expected to be held week commencing 7^th August. 

We are recruiting the equivalent four full time posts, with availability of both full and part time positions. Please note that we are also recruiting to a Graduate Biodiversity Officer position, ideal for university leavers, via our Graduate scheme.

All positions are permanent contracts and are available on both a full-time and part-time basis. For exceptional candidates, with extensive experience, a Senior Biodiversity Officer position at a KR10 grade may be considered. 

Contact Details

For more information about all positions, telephone Helen Forster 03000413374 or email helen.forster@kent.gov.uk

About the Company

KCC is committed to building a workforce which reflects the diversity of the county's working residents, encouraging applications from people of all ages, abilities, genders, sexual orientations, ethnic backgrounds and faiths, and aspires to create an inclusive workplace where everyone can be themselves at work.

Please note – if you are interested, please apply as soon as possible as the closing date for this advert may be earlier than stated should a number of suitably qualified candidates apply.