Invasives & Biosecurity Officer
Exeter, England
South West Water – SWW - Environment /
Permanent full-time /
Hybrid
At South West Water we believe that the strongest businesses are built on solid, stable foundations - with a vision and a culture that gives them the freedom to change, improve and innovate.
We’re proud to be responsible for providing reliable, efficient and high-quality drinking water and wastewater services for the beautiful South West area.
And we have huge ambitions.
Not only are we committed to reaching net-zero by 2030, but we’ve also partnered with Wildlife Trusts, National Parks and local partners to help ensure a better future for generations to come.
So, if you want to be part of a diverse team where opportunities flow and fresh ideas are welcomed, #JustAddWater.
This is an exciting opportunity to join us as a Invasives & Biosecurity Officer. This role will give you the opportunity to work as part of a passionate team of environment specialists and be involved in multiple important projects. You will be joining us initially on a 12 month fixed term contract with a view to be made permanent in the new financial year (April 2025). The role comes with a annual salary of £37,983 - £42,203 plus amazing benefits.
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual to join our team as an INNS Specialist. As part of the Water Industry National Environment Programme (WINEP), you will play a crucial role in the delivery of Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS) schemes, with a specific focus on biosecurity measures. Your expertise in INNS and biosecurity will be instrumental in ensuring the protection of our natural environment.
What you'll be doing:
- Monitor delivery of the INNS schemes for the WINEP to ensure SWW meets its obligations. To record WINEP progress for internal reporting and regulatory reporting, and support development of future AMP.
- To identify key operational teams to target uptake of biosecurity procedures to support integration of Biosecurity Plan into business, including contractors/operations.
- Develop Rapid Response Plan reporting systems internally and promote use in the field. Respond to and record priority INNS presence and escape incidents.
- To oversee delivery of the South West Regional PAP for watercraft. Encourage the use of a range of biosecurity measures by a range of stakeholders at events and specifically at the pilot biosecurity facilities at Roadford. Link where feasible with the angling PAP.
- To provide technical advice to Engineering and Water Resources and liaise with specialists on the design of biosecurity measures and screening options for the reduction of INNS movement for Raw Water Transfer compliance through existing and new pipeline connections.
- Establish good working relations with SWLT, particularly the Invasive Species Officer, and other organisations to assist with maintaining and developing SWW at forefront of innovation and awareness.
- Support field work and monitoring schemes, especially where Health & Safety may require two people on site.
What we are looking for:
- Degree in relevant discipline, or relevant vocational qualifications and relevant work experience.
- Undertaken the GB Non-Native Species INNS e-learning modules would be desirable.
- Knowledge of INNS and legislation and understanding of INNS impact on native biodiversity.
- Confident to develop and deliver a range of workshops with a variety of target audiences.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for completing project plans, updates and training materials.
- Full UK driving licence and prepared to travel throughout the region and to national meetings with regulators and industry bodies.
£37,983 - £42,203 a year
What's in it for you:
We know that the support and commitment of our staff is key to our success so you will receive the opportunity for ongoing development and training for a long-term career with us. We’re one of the largest companies in the South West and are proud to have been awarded Investors in People recognition. In return, we offer an excellent range of benefits including:
· Generous holiday allowance plus bank holidays
· A discretionary Bonus
· Competitive Contributory Pension
· Share-save Scheme
· Various health benefits
· Wellbeing support programmes
· A range of Group Discounts
· Cycle to Work Scheme
· Financial support services
· And plenty more!
Closing date: 19th August 2024
Be yourself, we like it that way. Together, we will build a culture of belonging, where inclusion is instinctive. Diversity is our strength and a reflection of our communities. We care, we value everyone, we celebrate uniqueness.
Our core values which are essential to our success are:
Be Rock Solid - Build trust and be trusted. Be the one we all look to and can depend on.
Be You - We want you to bring your best everyday. Be yourself and make your mark in your individual way.
Be the Future - Embrace change. Drive Progress. Own the challenge.
