Ecology Officer (Planning)

Do you have a background in ecology or a related discipline and want to work in one of the most
stunning parts of the UK, home to many nationally and internationally important habitats,
species and landscapes? Are you looking for competitive pay and excellent working conditions,
including flexible working across a 35-hour week, minimum 28 days annual leave (plus 7 days
paid public holiday), a generous pension scheme, full support for CPD and training and employee
discounts? If so, this opportunity may be for you!

About the role:

Highland Council are looking for an Ecology Officer to join our expanding, busy and friendly
Ecology Team. In this role you will help secure the best outcomes for biodiversity, providing
advice to the planning authority and working closely with the renewables and energy sector to
secure landscape-scale biodiversity enhancements. You will have the opportunity to make a real
and lasting contribution to Highland’s outstanding exceptional natural environment. The role
includes extensive travel across the Highlands. The role is offered on a 2 year fixed term basis but with possibility of extension.

About the Highlands:

Covering around one-third of mainland Scotland, the Highland Council is the UK’s largest, yet
least populated, local authority area. The Highlands boasts an outstanding, world-class and
varied natural environment set within and against some of the UK’s most dramatic and scenic
natural landscapes, including the Cairngorms National Park, the Isle of Skye, Ben Nevis, Glen
Affric, Loch Ness and The Great Glen and the Flow Country World Heritage Site.

Most towns and settlements are more compact compared to other parts of the UK and in some areas
widely dispersed. Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands, is a historic and vibrant city with
the full range of modern services and facilities including an easily accessible modern airport.
The Highlands offer an excellent quality of life with all the benefits of urban life with easy
access to an outstanding natural environment.

About you:

You will hold a relevant degree level qualification in ecology or a related discipline, or
have equivalent experience. Practical experience and knowledge of the planning system and the
application of relevant legislation, policy and guidance would be an advantage. The successful
candidate will be comfortable working with a wide range of people, including fellow officers
and Council managers, developers, consultants, elected Members, government agencies and the
public. You will need to be self-motivated and comfortable using your own initiative and able
to manage a varied workload. You will be comfortable undertaking site visits and attending
meetings across a large geographical area.

If you would like to discuss this position, please contact Andrew Puls, Environment Team Leader
([email protected]) or Karen Couper,
Senior Ecology Officer ([email protected]).