Overview

Largely rural, Braintree District features attractive river landscapes and gentle plateaux amid a mosaic of interconnecting fields and ancient woodlands. Our towns and villages include no fewer than 37 conservation areas and the countryside boasts 136 semi-natural woodlands, of which 23 are protected by tree preservation orders. Working closely with the local community, you will help to conserve the character of this remarkable area against pressure from planning applications and the creation of 15,000 new homes over the next 17 years, including the prospect of new garden settlements.

At Braintree District Council our Landscape Services team is integral to the planning process, offering expert advice on arboriculture, biodiversity and associated matters. You will work at its heart, providing significant ecological input into planning issues and maintaining contact with developers, planning officers and other key stakeholders. In particular, you will advise us on current legislation concerning protected species, comment on habitat surveys and ecological assessments, guide developers on best practice methodologies and engage with volunteer groups managing open spaces, giving you considerable variety and visibility.

Of graduate calibre and working towards full Membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, you will bring extensive field experience, ideally backed by a protected species licence for bats or newts. You will certainly be well versed in ecological issues on development sites and identifying practical methods of mitigation and enhancement. A significant proportion of your time will be spent out of the office, so it is important that you have a full driving licence and access to your own transport, and you will be happy to work occasional evenings and weekends as required. Finally, strong interpersonal and presentation skills are a must, backed by deep passion for the environment and real determination to make a difference.

Please visit the Current Vacancies section at  www.braintree.gov.uk for further information and a job pack. To apply either complete the on-line application form or submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your skills, knowledge and experience to humanresources@braintree.gov.uk

Closing date: Wednesday 23 November 2016