Biodiversity Project Officer

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 ambition to make Crawley cleaner, greener, healthier and more resilient.

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. Working within our Sustainability team, you will work with Parks and Conservation, Built Environment and Planning teams to help deliver ambitious action plans focused on halting biodiversity loss, improving habitats, and increasing the value of green spaces for our residents.

Responsibilities

• Lead on Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) delivery for council-led development projects
• Undertake or commission ecology and habitat surveys
• Develop and oversee biodiversity management plans
• Support the creation of a borough-wide biodiversity action plan
• Establish and progress habitat banks and attract investment in green infrastructure
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, communities and external partners to maximise biodiversity outcomes
• Identify and secure external funding and grants
• Liaise with ecologists across the region to help deliver local nature recovery strategies
• Conduct outdoor site work and engage with a wide range of stakeholders, offering a varied and hands‑on working environment

Qualifications

• A strong understanding of biodiversity, habitat management and ecological planning
• Knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain, 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
• 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.

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.

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.

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