Operations Officer - North - D Grade

Job title: 1013-308 - Operations Officer – Strategic Projects and Partnerships | Grade: D | Vacancy type: Temporary – 6 months initially with possibility of extension | Hours: 21 hours | Salary £38,616 pro rata (pay award pending effective 01 April 2025) | Location: Golspie with other locations in the northern Highlands (Home and hybrid working will be considered) | Closing date: 14 July 2025 | External Interview date: 23rd July 2025. Job Purpose Summary This exciting post offers the opportunity to deliver NatureScot priorities across the National Operations North area, by working in partnership to assist several key strategic projects in support of our spatial priorities for delivery of the corporate plan. The post will also support priority work in other parts of the Highlands and Islands and there will be an expectation of being able to work flexibly throughout the area. The post holder will tackle a diverse portfolio of tasks relating to representing NatureScot in relevant Community Planning Partnerships, economic development partnerships, Agri-Environment and Climate Scheme delivery, and will be the local area lead for NatureScot’s input to The Flow Country World Heritage Site management. The post will also support the development of ‘Saving Nature Outer Hebrides’ project. The post will also involve proactive work to address climate change and reverse biodiversity loss. Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities Area Lead for the delivery of NatureScot’s input to The Flow Country World Heritage Site management, working in partnership on a range of possible tasks with other key stakeholders within the World Heritage Site Working Group. Represent NatureScot in Community Planning and other partnerships, influencing these partnerships to help achieve NatureScot’s local priorities through positive relationships with local communities and agencies, and making links between these and The Flow Country World Heritage Site management. Act as an Agri-Environment and Climate Scheme case officer; Support the development and Project Management of Saving Nature Outer Hebrides including: Co-ordinate the development of a Partnership Agreement, Steering Group and Technical Advisory Group Secretariat for Steering Group – Meeting organisation, TOR and minutes taking Secretariat for Technical Advisory Group - Meeting organisation, TOR and minutes taking Operational Plan contract development, tender process delivery and contractor liaison. Work with contractors to support development of Operational Plan Reporting and financial management Establish data management requirements Develop a Comms Plan and deliver agreed actions including website management Community engagement plan and delivery Funding source identification including match funding, private finance and Trusts Prerequisites Required Proof of right to work in UK To undertake a Disclosure Scotland application. Although Gaelic language is not a prerequisite it is a desirable skill in support of our commitment to our Gaelic Language Plan. Skills HND or equivalent qualification or practical experience in a relevant environmental discipline or countryside management. Knowledge of habitats and species conservation and management, land use and natural heritage issues. Knowledge of the local area and its natural history. Familiarity with the general functions and statutory duties of NatureScot. Understanding, preferably including experience of the Agri-Environment and Climate Scheme and other methods to promote positive management of designated sites (SSSIs & Natura sites). Understanding, preferably including experience of the Scottish Planning System and Nature Conservation Legislation. Good interpersonal skills with an ability to work in partnership, to foster good relations and to encourage actions by others. Good communication skills, both written and verbal, including IT. Excellent organisational and time management skills and ability to effectively prioritise[CD4] workload. Driving licence or other means of transport. Application Process Before applying for this post; Internal applicants should read the Self Service Guide (eRDMS A3155575) External applicants should read the Online Job Application Guide – link below If you have previously applied for a vacancy with NatureScot you must remove the supporting statement from your profile, before uploading a new version. Interviews External candidates will be invited to interview if we are unable to recruit internally Nature is vital to us all, so it's important that NatureScot represents the people of Scotland. The more diverse our workforce is, the more effectively we can connect everyone with nature. We encourage applications from candidates of all ages and genders, people from ethnic minority groups, people with disabilities, and the LGBTQ community.

Location: Golspie, GB

Posted Date: 7/4/2025