Are you interested in a career in biodiversity and nature recovery? An exceptional opportunity to join Cotswold District Council as an Assistant Biodiversity Officer. You will assist in providing high quality and robust ecological advice to enhance biodiversity in new developments, whilst assisting in delivering nature recovery, aligned to our climate change and sustainability priorities. About the role… As an Assistant Biodiversity Officer, you will be collaborating with landowners, developers, the voluntary sector and other partners to protect and enhance the unique natural environment of the Cotswolds. This post could be a great start on a biodiversity career for a recent graduate with a biodiversity-related degree and enthusiasm for the subject. There will be opportunities to increase your skills and expertise. The main areas of work will include: Assisting in the provision of biodiversity advice at all stages of the planning application process, working in partnership with Planning Officer colleagues, developers, planning agents, ecological consultants, environmental organisations and the local community. Encouraging high standards of biodiversity design in new development, including the protection and management of existing biodiversity, the creation of new habitats and green infrastructure and the delivery of biodiversity net gain. Assisting in supporting enforcement and prosecution work with regard to any illegal or unauthorised work that affect biodiversity. You will need… Relevant undergraduate degree or equivalent or BTEC, HND,HNC,NVQ level 4/5 GCSE Maths and English or equivalent to grade C/4 or higher Some experience of working in a paid or voluntary nature conservation related role Knowledge, understanding and experience of biodiversity and nature recovery, preferably including those relevant to the planning system, relevant legislation, designated sites, biodiversity net gain, protected species and biodiversity surveys and assessments Experience of working flexibly as part of a team, collaborating with colleagues and stakeholders and working independently Special Conditions… Full UK Driving Licence and access to a vehicle. This post designated as politically restricted in accordance with the Local Government and Housing Act 1989. Politically restricted post holders are restricted from canvassing on behalf of a political party or for a person who is, or seeks to be, a candidate for election to a local authority, the House of Commons, or the European Parliament. For more information about this role please see the Job Description/Person Specification. What can we do for you… Agile working allowing a mix of home and office working Flexible working arrangements (depending on the role) 27 days paid annual leave (pro rata if you are working part time) plus bank holidays, which increases to 30 days after five years of service In addition you will have an extra two volunteering days a year for you to support a charity of your choice Renewed again for another year there is a Health cash plan giving you cash back on health, dental and eye care Generous contributory local government pension scheme Employee Assistance Programme 24/7, providing positive, preventative and supportive advice and counselling to deal with everyday events and issues Cycle to work scheme Salary sacrifice car lease scheme with significant tax and NI savings to be made on electric cars Generous sickness cover above statutory entitlements Terms and conditions apply These are just a handful of the benefits that you can enjoy when you join us