Biodiversity Project Officer

About the role

Are you passionate about protecting nature and creating thriving green spaces? Do you want the opportunity to shape biodiversity policy across an entire borough, engaging with leaders and elected members to leave a lasting environmental legacy?

We are looking for a Biodiversity Project Officer to help deliver our ambitious plans for enhancing biodiversity, adapting to a changing climate and establishing a centre of excellence for urban ecology. This is an exciting opportunity to establish habitat banks and innovative nature-recovery initiatives and ensure nature recovery is embedded in our development and planning processes.

This role places you at the heart of the council, working with parks, conservation, built environment, planning and sustainability teams to halt biodiversity loss, improve habitats, coordinate climate adaptation and increase access to green spaces for our residents.

You will:

• establish Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) habitat banks and attract investment in green infrastructure
• lead on BNG delivery for council-led development projects
• undertake or commission ecology and habitat surveys
• develop and oversee biodiversity management plans for individual sites
• support the creation of a borough-wide biodiversity action plan
• work collaboratively with colleagues, communities and external partners

You will also liaise with ecologists across the region to help deliver local nature recovery strategies. This role will include outdoor site work and engagement with a wide range of stakeholders, offering a varied and hands-on working environment.

We are looking for someone who can combine technical ecological expertise with strong communication and project delivery skills.

You will bring:

• a strong understanding of biodiversity, habitat management and ecological planning
• knowledge of BNG, the Environment Act 2021, and planning policy
• experience in applying BNG metrics and delivering biodiversity enhancements
• experience of undertaking and commissioning ecological surveys and producing clear, accessible reports
• experience working with stakeholders and managing environmental projects
• a degree (or equivalent experience) in ecology, environmental management or a related field

You will also be highly organised, proactive and able to work independently while contributing positively to a collaborative team environment.

Additional information

Fixed term contract for two years (with potential for extension if funding allows).

Ability to travel independently around the borough to undertake site visits is required.

May require occasional evening and weekend working.

We operate a flexible hybrid working model, typically combining site visits, office collaboration and home working.

Crawley is a great place to work, with a thriving business district and excellent transport connections including nearby Gatwick Airport. We are based in our modern Town Hall which opened in 2023 and is located a short walk from the town centre and railway station.

Employee benefits

We offer a generous employee benefits package, with a range of discounts, benefits and wellbeing incentives to suit everyone.

At Crawley Borough Council, you will have access to a structured programme of learning from day one, designed to help you succeed in your role and grow your career.

Local government reorganisation

Local government reorganisation (LGR) is planned across Sussex, with new unitary authorities expected by 2028. While this represents a significant change for councils, most roles will continue to focus on delivering vital services to our residents and business communities. As the future structure evolves, our name may change, but our commitment to providing excellent services and supporting our employees will not. Joining us now means being part of a dedicated team during an important and evolving time for local government.

Our way of working

Our shared values and behaviours reflect the special nature of our council. We encourage all colleagues to put them into practice, whatever job they do. Take a look to see if we are the perfect match.

Safer recruitment

Crawley Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We want to be an inclusive and diverse employer of first choice reflecting the community we serve and particularly welcome applications from all under represented groups.

For an informal conversation or further information regarding the role, email [email protected], Sustainability Manager or call on 01293 438684.

We recommend that you submit your application as soon as possible, as we may close this advert before the stated closing date if enough applications are received.