We’re recruiting a GCN (Great Crested Newt) District Licensing Officer to work closely with colleagues in NatureSpace to deliver the District Licence Scheme within Milton Keynes. You will understand the extent, scope, and detail of the District Licensing scheme, raise awareness of the scheme within the local planning authority, understand planning and licensing requirements, and monitor and advise on compliance and enforcement measures.

The Ideal Candidate

• A relevant degree in ecology or environmental management and holder of a Natural England Great Crested Newt Class Level 1 Survey Licence (CL08).
• Knowledge and understanding of the UK planning system, including ecological impact assessment and/or biodiversity in planning and knowledge of European protected species legislation, licensing, planning, and licensing policies.
• Practical experience of undertaking Great Crested Newt Survey Work using a range of survey techniques (eDNA, bottle trapping, torching, netting etc.) and demonstrable experience of planning and undertaking Great Crested Newt conservation management or designing and implementing Great Crested Newt mitigation and compensation strategies.
• Highly organised, methodical, and conscientious - able to juggle and prioritise multiple cases, enquiries, and tasks, and work efficiently to meet tight deadlines.
• An excellent communicator with good inter-personal skills - able to liaise proactively and confidently with developers, consultants (e.g., ecologists, planners), regulatory authorities, NGO partners and colleagues.
• Highly literate, able to prepare documents quickly and diligently to a high standard, following defined processes, protocols, and guidance.
• Self-motivated and independent - able to work flexibly and with minimal supervision.
• For this role, the candidate is required to have a full UK driving licence, along with access to a vehicle. Evidence of the driving licence and vehicle insurance with business insurance will be required from the candidate should they be offered this position. Without this documentation the candidate will not be appointable.

For more information, please see downloads. To apply, please click here.