Job Description
Excel Recruitment is recruiting a Biodiversity Officer on behalf of The Heritage Council to support the Council in delivering the aims and objectives of their Strategic Plan. Closing date for applications is Sunday 15th of September 2024 @ 5 pm. The full information booklet is available on the Heritage Council's Website. The Biodiversity Officer will be responsible for developing and implementing biodiversity policy at local, regional and national levels, particularly concerning land use and habitat restoration. Ideal candidates should possess a strong background in ecology, a deep understanding of policy development and proven experience in stakeholder engagement. The role requires excellent analysis and communication skills, the ability to forge partnerships across sectors, and a passion for integrating biodiversity considerations into public policy. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work in maximising the impact of the emerging Local Authority Biodiversity Officer programme as well as leading biodiversity policy development for the Heritage Council. Local Authority Biodiversity Officer Programme Assist with the development of the biodiversity officer programme in local authorities, specifically Develop and roll out a Biodiversity training programme for local authority staff and contractors, in partnership with Local authority biodiversity Officers (building on a template created by Clare County Council) Collaborate in the implementation of the Biodiversity Officer Training and Development Strategy Implementation of biodiversity policy through development of biodiversity conservation and restoration projects at local level, in partnership with LA Biodiversity Officers and according to priorities identifies in the NBAP and emerging Local Biodiversity Action Plans Collaborate with local authority Heritage Officers on the preparation and implementation of City and County Heritage Strategies, to ensure inclusion of strong policies for natural heritage. Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement Work collaboratively with public bodies, biodiversity professionals including Conservation NGOs, ecologists, government departments and agencies, communities, and citizens to ensure good outcomes for biodiversity. Engage with decision makers, conservation organisations, and other stakeholders including Heritage Council colleagues, to ensure consistency of approach to biodiversity policy. Heritage Council development Provide advice and input on biodiversity in relation to the shaping of grant criteria, assessment of applications, the oversight of grant projects, and sign off of grant payments. Work on public engagement actions regarding natural heritage in the context of the Heritage Council work e.g. National Heritage Week and Hedgerow Week Collaborate with colleagues internally and contribute to wider Heritage Council policies, activities and programmes as required. Assist in the management of the Biodiversity Officer budget, ensuring that financial resources are allocated effectively and responsibly, under the direction of the Head of Climate Change. Any other duties as may be assigned by the line manager or CEO. Candidates must demonstrate that they meet the following essential criteria. Hold a third level qualification (at least level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications) in biodiversity conservation, ecology or a related discipline. Minimum of five years' professional experience in biodiversity conservation and policy development, or a closely related field. Strong understanding of Irish, EU and international legislation, regulations and policies impacting on biodiversity, particularly in relation to land use management and habitat restoration. Experience of development and production of policy outputs (including managing external contractors) including research reports, briefings and consultation responses, with an eye for detail and scientific accuracy. Strong skills in research, data collection, and analysis to inform policy development and conservation strategies. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Excellent organisation, prioritisation, project management and IT skills. Strong personal commitment to biodiversity conservation and high standards of public service. The ability to communicate through the Irish language, both verbal and written, is desirable but not essential. Fully working rights within the republic of Ireland (please see information booklet) In Return: Full-time permanent position Salary in line with Civil Service Grade of Higher Executive Officer - point 1 starting at €56,556. 29 days annual leave Located in Kilkenny To apply please submit your CV and a cover letter (cover letter no more than 2 pages) outlining why you are interested in the role and where you believe your skills, knowledge and experience meet the requirements of the role. If applying through a job board please submit CV and Cover Letter as 1 document or to apply directly please email to Ciara Connolly at Please ensure to read the full information booklet which is available on the Heritage Council's Website. Skills: Biodiversity Officer Biodiversity conservation Officer Ecology