Overview

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the City of York Council in a diverse team who deal in design, conservation and sustainable development advice in the built and natural environment. We are looking to appoint a Senior Countryside and Ecology Officer.

You will work in two main areas:

  • Advising the council and its communities on ecological matters: This includes wildlife, protected species, biodiversity habitats, the interrelationship between these and the specific legal and policy implications of protected species/wildlife legislation. A key component of this is advice to development control on planning applications, including biodiversity net gain.
  • To provide countryside management advice in York: This is both within the council, and working with landowners and the general public to improve management practice, secure enhancements and increase the enjoyment of the natural environment and countryside heritage within the City of York Council area.

You will be educated to degree level in natural or environmental science (or equivalent), and preferably be a member of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management. A detailed knowledge of ecology, wildlife law and nature conservation land management is essential, and you will have significant work experience in these fields, preferably in a local authority context.

You will be expected to work under your own initiative, with an often complex workload, and you will motivate those around you using your passion for countryside and ecology issues. You will also possess a full clean driving license. You will be directly assisted by an environment technician, under your supervision.

The Council is committed to investing in the talent and wellbeing of our staff and can offer a generous annual leave allowance, access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, comprehensive Health & Wellbeing initiatives and a reward package which recognises your contribution. We can offer flexible working practices, community engagement and volunteer activities and, as part of our commitment to you, promote continuous Learning & Development. In addition we also offer a growing range of discounts, rewards and savings.

For further information or an informal discussion please contact Guy Hanson (Design and Sustainability Manager) at guy.hanson@york.gov.uk  or on 01904 551319.

Hybrid working arrangements are available for this role. Each role at CYC is different and your working arrangements will be determined based on the requirements of the role and in collaboration with you and your needs as part of the recruitment process. Your contractual location will be the designated council office for your team

Closing date: Wednesday 21 February 2024 at 12 midnight

Interview date: Week commencing Monday 4 March 2024