Environmental Planner

Orkney Islands Council; Kirkwall; On-site; GBP 39,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Orkney Islands Council seeks a passionate Environmental Planner to join the Development and Marine Planning Team. This role focuses on safeguarding the natural environment through planning processes for both terrestrial and marine projects. Candidates should possess relevant qualifications or substantial experience in the natural environment sector. Benefits include paid relocation expenses and a full-time contract.

Benefits

Paid relocation expenses

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Qualification at SCQF Level 8/9 or equivalent experience in the natural environment sector.
• Membership of a relevant professional body is essential.
• Ability to travel effectively between locations within Orkney.

Responsibilities

• Work on terrestrial and marine planning functions.
• Conduct environmental assessments and develop planning guidance.
• Act as the lead advisor on environmental matters for the Council.

Skills

Biodiversity

Environmental Legislation

Planning Systems

Education

SCQF Level 8/9 in natural environment or related discipline

Job description

Location: Council Offices Kirkwall Orkney, KW15 1NY

Salary: £39,941 - £44,120 per year

Contract Type: Permanent

Position Type: Full Time

Hours: 35 hours per week

Advert

INFRASTRUCTURE AND ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Planning and Community Protection - Development and Marine Planning

35 hours per week

Permanent

Are you passionate about biodiversity, natural heritage and looking for a new adventure? Orkney Islands Council is seeking a dedicated Environmental Planner to join our Development and Marine Planning Team. This full-time role offers the chance to safeguard and enhance our beautiful islands' natural environment.

This role has a unique remit for both terrestrial and marine planning functions as the Team delivers both the Orkney Local Development Plan and the Orkney Islands Regional Marine Plan. There will be an opportunity to get involved in environmental enhancement project work alongside the development of environmental planning guidance, the completion of environmental assessments associated with our Plans and being the Council’s lead advisor on environmental matters.

As the Council’s Environmental Planner you will be the Council’s expert on the environmental legislation and regulations with particular regard to the Scottish Planning System.

Applicants should hold a qualification at SCQF Level 8/9 (i.e. SVQ4, HND, General Degree, Higher Apprenticeship or Technical Apprenticeship) in natural environment or a related discipline. Where the essential qualification is not held, applicants should have a minimum of 5 years’ previous relevant experience of working in the natural environment sector. Membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environment Management, or equivalent professional membership, is also essential.

You should be able to travel efficiently and effectively between work locations within Orkney to meet the operational requirements of the Service.

This post is subject to Level 1 Disclosure Scotland clearance.

Prospective applicants can discuss the post by contacting Susan Shearer, Service Manager, Development and Marine Planning by e-mail to [e-mail] or telephone [phone].

Closing Date: 23:59 on Sunday 17 August 2025

Please note that interview and relocation expenses will be paid for this post, in accordance with Council policy.