Scientific Officer – Belfast

The Recruitment Co; Belfast; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking a Scientific Officer in Belfast to assist in collecting and collating scientific data related to the protected sites network. The role requires two years of experience in conservation or assessment, knowledge of NI wildlife legislation, and solid IT skills. Duties include field surveys and preparing Condition Assessment Reports. This is a six-month position, potentially extendable, with a pay rate of £17.43 per hour, typically requiring 37 hours of work per week.

Qualifications

• 2 years continuous experience in conservation or assessment of ecosystems.
• Good ecological and botanical knowledge.
• Proven ability to use own initiative.

Responsibilities

• Assist with collection and collation of scientific data.
• Digitising historical records and spatial mapping.
• Conduct field-based surveys of priority habitats.

Skills

Knowledge of NI wildlife legislation

Experience with species and habitats management/restoration

Conducting ecological surveys

IT skills with Microsoft Word and Excel

Excellent communication skills

Education

5 GCSEs including English and Maths grade C or above

Tools

GIS and data collection apps

Job description

We are currently recruiting for a Scientific Officer in Belfast. The successful candidates will be required to start once the vetting paperwork, ANI clearance has been completed.

Start date : ASAP

Duration : 6 months with a possibility of extension

Rate of pay : £17.43

Hours of work : The successful candidate will normally be required to work5 days each week, totalling 37 hours (excluding lunch break).

On occasions the duties may include some evening and weekend working.

DAERA operates a flexi working system

Key Responsibilities

The postholder will assist with collection and collation of scientific data related to the protected sites network across Northern Ireland (ASSIs and SACs). This will include digitising historical records and spatial mapping combined with meticulous record keeping. During the spring and summer months, the postholder will be required to undertake field-based surveys of priority habitats contributing to this scientific knowledge base. Spatial analysis of comparable data over time allows assessment of the habitat condition and whether it is improving or deteriorating. Preparation of professional Condition Assessment Reports will be a significant part of the job. The postholder will provide any other support for the Habitat Survey Team including bird surveys.

Essential Criteria applicants must have

2 years continuous experience gained within the last 8 years in a paid, voluntary or academic capacity associated with the conservation or assessment of our natural terrestrial or freshwater heritage (ecosystems, habitats or species), such as in one or a combination of the following :

• Knowledge of NI wildlife legislation
• Experience of species and habitats management / restoration
• Conducting ecological surveys (including mapping, recording and monitoring of scientific data)
• Professional standard report writing and preparation

A good ecological and botanical knowledge base preferably with some experience of using GIS and data collection apps i.e. management and interpretation of spatial information.

A valid driving licence would be beneficial.

Proof of 5 GCSEs including English and Maths grade C or above or the equivalent to this.

Excellent IT skills, including use of Microsoft Word and Excel.

Excellent communication skills.

Proven ability to use own initiative.

Please send your CV via the link or to [e-mail]