Overview

The Role:

The Hampshire Biodiversity Information Centre (HBIC) is part of an integrated, multi-disciplinary team offering a range of specialist environmental services to the County Council and other public authorities. HBIC brings together information on Hampshire’s natural environment, and works with a wide range of partner organisations involved in the supply and use of biodiversity data.

 

HBIC is now recruiting an Ancient Woodland Inventory Officer to join the team. This new role is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated individual to make a significant contribution to the conservation and protection of ancient woodland within Hampshire, by ensuring that this habitat is accurately documented. The post is for a fixed term of 2 years.

 

Natural England’s Ancient Woodland Inventory (AWI) is an essential reference tool, however, it currently contains omissions and inaccuracies and needs updating. You will lead this update by creating an accurate record of ancient woodland across Hampshire. This will add to the evidence base available to inform planning and conservation decisions and assist with the protection of this irreplaceable habitat.

 

You will follow a controlled methodology, already used in other regions of England. You will identify and map long-established woodland through GIS analysis of current data sources, and then determine ancient woodland status by sourcing and interpreting additional historical evidence (e.g. historic maps). The role will also be responsible for advising on, and participating in, field surveys to assist in the evaluation of ancient woodlands. The project will involve liaising with a wide variety of stakeholders, including land managers, local authorities and conservation organisations.

 

The successful candidate will be a proficient user of GIS software and have excellent data management skills. You will have a demonstrable interest in woodland ecology, and experience of building relationships with stakeholders to make decisions or influence outcomes. Organised, self-motivated and reliable, you will possess good communication skills and have a keen eye for detail.

 

Please note that this advert may close early depending on the volume of applications we receive. We would therefore encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.

Additional Information:

Ancient Woodland Officer (HBIC) Job Description & Person Specification

Contact Details for an Informal Discussion:

Nicky Court, HBIC Manager. on 0370 779 2721 or nicky.court@hants.gov.uk

 

Hampshire County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment.

 

In order to combat discrimination, no unnecessary conditions or requirements will be applied which could have a disproportionately adverse effect on any one group. All sections of the population will have equal access to jobs. No applicant or employee will receive less favourable treatment because of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership and pregnancy or maternity, unless a Genuine Occupational Requirement (GOR) applies.