Ocean Career: NatureScot Benthic and mINNS Advisor

Ocean Career: NatureScot Benthic and mINNS Advisor NatureScot is seeking a Marine Sustainability Advisor – Benthic and mINNS to be part of our Sustainable Coasts and Seas Activity Team to lead the provision of statutory benthic casework advice and also provide advice for marine non‑native species and biosecurity. The post holder will provide advice and guidance to support sustainable marine and coastal development associated with Scotland’s just transition to a net zero future. This includes benthic impacts related to ports and harbours work, and other coastal development related to marine energy development through the ScotWind and INTOG leasing rounds. The post holder may also provide casework advice to support a range of other benthic casework types, including but not limited to: aquaculture, seaweed harvesting/cultivation, infrastructure projects and dredging. The post holder will contribute expertise to inform and influence strategic policy objectives for marine INNS including contributing to delivery of related Scottish Biodiversity Strategy actions and the Scottish Plan for Invasive Non‑Native Species. The role will support Marine Directorate Policy by provision of advice for marine INNS management and biosecurity, particularly regarding risks to protected sites and advice for survey/analyses priorities for high‑risk mINNS species. A good knowledge of Scotland’s marine habitats (protection, ecology and management) and key marine and coastal industries, sectors and activities within Scotland is required. A clear understanding and knowledge of the Scottish terrestrial and marine planning and consenting systems and NatureScot’s role within these are also required. Advice will be required for phases of development activity in line with our statutory duties including Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Habitats Regulations Appraisal. The post holder will analyse and interpret environmental information and provide appropriate casework advice. They will be confident in advising on approaches for preventing biodiversity loss and enhancing nature, particularly in respect of recognising potential impacts on the marine environment and seeking solutions to reduce any adverse impacts. The successful post holder will work with NatureScot case leads and other key marine specialists, relevant marine industries and academic institutes, Local Authorities and relevant Directorates in Scottish Government. Associated activities, depending upon capacity and expertise, may include input to research projects, and representation of NatureScot on working groups and wider partnerships to develop further knowledge and working relationships in key topic areas. The post holder will also be required to contribute to the wider work of both the Sustainable Coasts and Seas and Marine Ecosystem Activity Teams. Roles at this grade will typically work autonomously or as part of a team to provide specialist/ technical expertise with some autonomous decision making. The range of tasks can vary and will therefore require a well‑developed understanding of a complex body of knowledge in their specialist area. Consequently, planning and organising of own workload is required to deliver the corporate priorities. The role is required to evaluate different approaches, problem solve and provide a range of solutions. Key responsibilities Lead in the provision of robust, timely, solution‑focused and clearly articulated advice for coastal and marine development proposals and casework in respect of benthic, non‑native species/biosecurity and wider biodiversity impacts. Represent NatureScot at meetings with developers, consultees and Scottish Government Directorates. Build and maintain relationships with stakeholders (e.g. Marine Directorate, Local Planning Authorities) and represent NatureScot on relevant forums. Work with colleagues and partners to identify and prioritise guidance and research in respect of coastal and marine development effects in the marine environment and represent NatureScot on relevant external protection steering groups. Contribute to the wider team within NatureScot, building knowledge and capacity for engagement with coastal and marine development casework. Applying, and contributing to the development of procedures, guidance and standards that help us deliver robust advice. Manage correct storage of case information and advice through email, filing systems and MS Teams, following agreed casework processes. Represent NatureScot at conferences and events and promote awareness of our work through social media, press releases and the NatureScot website. Skills Required A degree in a relevant subject, relevant post‑graduate experience or work experience or equivalent. A comprehensive understanding in Scottish / UK waters of benthic ecology and marine non‑native species and issues relating to their conservation and management. Knowledge and experience of coastal and marine industries, relevant to Scotland and the potential interactions of these activities with marine habitats and species. Effective written and verbal communication skills with the ability to provide clear solution‑focused advice, including experience in critical appraisal of technical reports and papers. Proven ability to influence and forge good working relationships with a range of stakeholders. Ability to effectively plan and manage workloads, work to deadlines and adapt to changing priorities while balancing a high volume of reactive work. Work collaboratively, demonstrate empathy and understanding of the views and positions of others, while also showing commitment to overall team performance. Ability to analyse, interpret and manage scientific information – including practical experience of data handling and applying statistical methods. Prerequisites Required Applicants must be eligible to live and work in the UK and resident in Scotland for the duration of the job contract. To undertake a Disclosure Scotland application. Although Gaelic language is not a prerequisite it is a desirable skill in support of our commitment to our Gaelic Language Plan. Location : Scotland, flexible (Home and hybrid working will be considered) #J-18808-Ljbffr ECO Magazine