Location
Norfolk

Hours
Full Time

Salary
£34,434 to £36,363 per annum

About the Role
Are you looking for a role that provides the opportunity to deliver real action to support nature recovery in Norfolk? Do you enjoy working closely with colleagues and in partnership with other organisations and volunteers across the county undertaking practical activities? Are you looking for the opportunity to put your knowledge and experience of non-native species into action? If so, we would love to hear from you.

The Norfolk County Council (NCC) Environment Service has an exciting and broad ranging role leading the Norfolk Non-native Species Initiative (NNNSI). This partnership, launched in 2008, promotes a more strategic and coordinated approach to managing invasive alien species (IAS) in the county.

As the Nature Recovery Officer, you will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the NNNSI, promoting prevention, early detection, control, and eradication of IAS. You will lead coordination and reporting of all aspects of NNNSI delivery programmes, contributing to the NCC Environment Policy, Local Nature Recovery Strategy, and the Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP) 2023 for England.

Key focus areas include:
- Coordinating and reporting on NNNSI delivery programmes
- Updating objectives and targets of the Norfolk Non-native Species Action Plan and ensuring timely delivery
- Monitoring project budgets
- Delivering invasive species surveys, data collection, management plans, and progress reports
- Coordinating IAS management projects with partners and volunteers to undertake eradication programmes
- Raising awareness of risks and impacts associated with invasive alien species
- Working closely with partners and stakeholders to deliver NNNSI aims
- Supporting the delivery of the Local Nature Recovery Strategy
- Assisting in developing funding bids for IAS action projects

Partnership working with local, regional, and national cross-sector stakeholders is a key element of this role. Collaboration and best practice exchange will build on several large, high-profile initiatives previously funded by EU LIFE, EU Interreg, Defra, Environment Agency, Natural England, Inland Drainage Boards, and Broads Authority.

Current projects include efforts towards eradicating Floating Pennywort on the River Waveney and North Walsham and Dilham canal, as well as the Wensum Catchment Himalayan Balsam eradication project.

This is a temporary contract until 31 March 2027.

Experience
Proven experience in managing invasive alien species or biosecurity projects is essential. Experience in coordinating multi-partner initiatives and delivering practical conservation activities is highly desirable.

About you
You are an experienced and motivated professional with a passion for nature recovery and biosecurity. You have excellent organisational and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of partners, stakeholders, and volunteers. You are proactive, adaptable, and able to manage multiple priorities effectively.

Qualifications
A relevant degree or equivalent experience in environmental science, ecology, conservation, or a related field is preferred. Knowledge of invasive species legislation, biosecurity protocols, and project management is advantageous.