Project Support Officer – Climate and Nature WMF1971e

Westmorland and Furness Council is seeking a Project Support Officer for Climate and Nature to assist in developing and delivering their Nature and Biodiversity Action Plan. The role involves managing projects, collaborating with stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with best practices. Candidates should have a relevant degree, knowledge of climate change, and experience in project management. The position is based in Penrith, United Kingdom, and offers flexible working opportunities.
Are you keen to support the council to do what it can to help reduce carbon emissions? Do you have a keen eye for detail and a proven track record of delivering complex projects?

If so, we want to hear from you!

Westmorland and Furness have identified biodiversity and climate change as key priorities for the Council and are seeking a highly organised, motivated and dedicated Project Support Officer with excellent knowledge of nature recovery who can assist with developing and delivering the Council’s Nature and Biodiversity Action Plan in line with the Cumbria Local Nature Recovery Strategy.

Key Responsibilities
• Develop and implement a wide range of internal and external nature projects and programmes.
• Work with colleagues and key partners to develop and implement nature recovery initiatives.
• Allocate, monitor and manage activities to ensure effective and timely project delivery.
• Maintain an oversight of all risks associated with delivery of projects and programmes.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, elected members, stakeholders, and contractors.
• Provide support, guidance, and task management to other staff as required.
• Ensure that national best practice and statutory / regulatory requirements are implemented.
• Use technical skills to prepare and monitor projects and programmes.
• Identify and apply for additional funding opportunities.
• Prepare briefing notes, discussion documents, consultation, and formal reports.

Essential Criteria
• Degree level or equivalent in a relevant field.
• Knowledge of climate change and nature recovery.
• Knowledge on nature enhancement and protection.
• Knowledge of public, private, and third-sector organisations.
• Successful experience of coordinating, planning, and managing complex projects.
• Ability to work on own initiative and to work as part of a team.
• Ability to analyse and interpret information, undertake research, and make recommendations.
• Experience of working with a multi-disciplinary workforce.
• Experience of working within a political framework.
• Customer-focused approach and commitment to excellent customer service.
• Commitment to equal opportunities.

Desirable Criteria
• Experience of habitat assessment, management, and creation
• Experience of data handling and management such as Geographical Information Systems

Interested?

If this sounds like an opportunity you would be interested in, and you’re looking for a role where you can make a positive difference to the environment, then please apply today.

If you are interested and would like to have an informal discussion, please contact:
beth.moore@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

What Can We Offer You!
• Excellent training and development offers
• Flexible working opportunities
• Opportunity to join the Local Government Pension Scheme
• Boost your pension with Shared Cost Additional Voluntary Contributions (facilitated by AVC Wise)
• Various perks and discounts schemes, including money off your phone contract and local gyms
• Competitive rates of pay

Application and Interview Information
• Interview Date: Week beginning 12th of May

Options will be discussed with candidates once they have been invited to the interview stage of the process for this specific position, and if you have any concerns or adjustments are needed, we are happy to discuss.

If you are invited to a virtual interview, this will preferably be undertaken using the Microsoft Teams software (which is currently free for new users). If there are any issues accessing this technology, we are happy to discuss alternative arrangements prior to the interviews.

Safer Recruitment

At Westmorland and Furness Council we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the safety and welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and expect all employees, volunteers and the Externally Provided Workforce (EPWs) to share this commitment.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Westmorland and Furness Council is committed to improving the diversity of its workforce to better reflect the communities we serve.

We welcome applications from everyone and work to promote an inclusive, supportive culture that values and celebrates our differences.

As a Disability Confident Employer, disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria of this job are guaranteed an interview.

Please See Below for More Information

Post Specification
Role Profile