1013-407/408/409 Operations Officer – North – D grade – April 2026

Other
Scotland
May 1, 2026
Permanent
Urgent

Job Description

Job title: 1013-407/408/409 Operations Officer – North (x3)

Grade: D Hours: 35 Vacancy type: Permanent Salary £41,567 Location: Lerwick, Kirkwall, Ullapool, Golspie, Elgin, Aberdeen, Inverness, Fort William, Battleby, Stornoway, South Uist, Oban Lochgilphead (other locations will be considered). Home & hybrid working possible. Closing date: Midnight on 4th May 2026.

Job Purpose

NatureScot is Scotland’s Nature Agency. This full time role works as part of the National Operations team, delivering NatureScot’s priorities relating to nature restoration, climate change, and the creation of nature rich places. The post holder will provide advice to local authorities, developers, land managers and partners on planning, renewable energy, marine licences, and related biodiversity and climate strategies.

Key Responsibilities

  • Advisory support on Town and Country planning, renewable energy proposals, marine licences and other regulatory casework.
  • Contribute to major initiatives such as the development of nature networks, the target, the enhancement of protected areas, and marine and coastal projects.
  • Interpret complex information and make decisions based on sound analysis and judgement.
  • Engage with stakeholders to build positive relationships and support NatureScot’s aims in external arenas.
  • Work flexibly within the North Operations Area, covering Highlands, Grampian, Perthshire, Argyll, Outer Hebrides, Orkney and Shetland.

Skills and Qualifications

  • Knowledge of ecology and habitats across northern Scotland, including protection, enhancement and management.
  • An understanding of the Planning System and NatureScot’s statutory role in planning casework.
  • Understanding of nature based solutions and the ability to communicate bespoke solutions to local needs.
  • Ability to interpret complex information and make decisions based on sound analysis.
  • Knowledge of NatureScot’s stakeholders and awareness of the political environment.
  • Creativity and versatility, with proven ability to progress independently.
  • Strong verbal and written communication, influencing and engagement skills.
  • Team player who demonstrates empathy and commitment to overall team performance.

Prerequisites

  • Eligible to live and work in the UK and resident in Scotland for the duration of the contract.
  • Will undertake a Disclosure Scotland application.
  • Knowledge of Gaelic is desirable but not required.

Benefits

  • Civil Service pension scheme with an employer contribution of 28.97%.
  • Generous holiday allowance of 41.5 days plus 5 fixed public holidays.
  • Paid volunteering leave, flexi time, flexible working options.
  • Employee assistance programme and well being support.
  • Cycle to work and electric vehicle salary sacrifice schemes.
  • Access to employee discount schemes, learning and development.
  • Culture encouraging inclusion and diversity.

Equal Opportunities

NatureScot is committed to diversity and encourages applications from people from Minority Ethnic backgrounds and people with disabilities.

Location

Related Jobs