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 leader and elected members to leave a lasting environmental legacy? Crawley Borough Council is looking for a Biodiversity Project Officer to help deliver our ambitious . 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. You will:

• 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
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 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
• You'll also be highly organised, proactive and able to work independently while contributing positively to a collaborative team environment.
  
  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 local government pensions and employee benefits package, with a range of discounts, benefits and wellbeing incentives to suit everyone. Flexible working is available with agreement from line manager. 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. Learning and development 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.