Biodiversity Officer

Leitrim County Council -
Leitrim, County Leitrim

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Job details

Permanent | Full-time
4 hours ago

Benefits

Annual leave

Qualifications

Less (style sheet language)
Communication skills
B Driving Licence
GIS

Full job description

Candidate Information Booklet

(Please read carefully)

Post of:

Biodiversity Officer

Closing Date: 4.00pm Thursday 16th July 2026

Important Notes

Completed Application Form (inclusive of all other required documentation)

must be emailed in PDF Format only as One Single Document (not

individual scanned documents) to [email protected].

Please quote ‘Biodiversity Officer Application’ followed by your name in the

subject line of the email.

Note: Hard copy Application Forms will not be accepted

General Information:
County Leitrim, located in the Northwest of Ireland, has a growing economy, picturesque landscape,
vibrant communities and a strong arts and cultural sector. Leitrim County Council’s vision is to build an

economically strong, creative, inclusive county, making Leitrim the best place to live, work, invest and

visit. Key to the achievement of our priorities and objectives is a skilled and committed workforce,

supported by enabling technologies, efficient work processes and learning and development
opportunities. We are committed to the training, support and encouragement of our staff and we offer

benefits across family friendly initiatives, personal development and wellbeing of staff.

The Role:
The Biodiversity Officer will promote, manage and co-ordinate biodiversity related activities in the
county. The Biodiversity Officer will play a pivotal role in the preparation, the ongoing review and

implementation of the Leitrim Biodiversity Action Plan. The role involves activation of local

communities, businesses, schools, and all interested stakeholders and raising awareness of biodiversity
in County Leitrim and requires an ability to engage with the public as part of a team within Leitrim

County Council. The Biodiversity Officer will be responsible for drafting and implementing any future

plans in relation to biodiversity and will also be responsible for making funding applications and project
delivery in relation to biodiversity.

The Qualifications:
1. Character
Each candidate must be of good character.

2. Health

Each candidate must be in a state of health such as would indicate a reasonable prospect of ability to

render regular and efficient service.

3. Citizenship

Candidates must, by the date of any job offer, be:

(a) A citizen of the European Economic Area (EEA). The EEA consists of the Member States of the

European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway;

(b) A citizen of the United Kingdom (UK);

(c) A citizen of Switzerland pursuant to the agreement between the EU and Switzerland on the free

movement of persons;

(d) A non-EEA citizen who is a spouse or child of an EEA or UK or Swiss citizen and has a stamp 4 visa;

(e) A person awarded international protection under the International Protection Act 2015 or any

family member entitled to remain in the State as a result of family reunification and has a stamp 4

visa

(f) A non-EEA citizen who is a parent of a dependent child who is a citizen of, and resident in, an EEA

member state or the UK or Switzerland and has a stamp 4 visa

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4. Education and Experience

Each candidate must, on the latest date for receipt of completed application forms:

(a) Hold a recognised degree (at least level 8 in the National Framework of Qualifications) in a
subject relevant to biodiversity including but not limited to environmental science, ecology,

earth/natural sciences, zoology, botany or natural resources management**;

(b) After attaining the qualification, have at least five years’ relevant satisfactory experience of

scientific work in biodiversity, sustainable development goals, biodiversity, energy and climate

action;

(c) Possess a high standard of technical training relevant to the areas of natural sciences and natural

resource management; and

(d) Have a satisfactory knowledge of public service organization or the ability to acquire such

knowledge.

** Please ensure that confirmation of your recognised degree qualification (at least Level 8 in the

National Framework of Qualifications) in a subject relevant to biodiversity from your awarding body

and / or Quality & Qualifications Ireland (QQI) is submitted to the HR Department with your

application. Foreign language qualification certificates must also be accompanied by a translation
document. Applications received without the necessary documentation will be deemed ineligible and

will not be considered further.

Candidates must also hold a current valid and unendorsed driving licence in respect of category B

vehicles or equivalent in the EU Model Driving Licence, and have access to their own motor vehicle,

and must advise if this is not the case. A copy of Licence must be submitted with your application.

The Ideal Candidate Shall Have:

Career record that demonstrates satisfactory scientific experience relevant to the Biodiversity Officer

role.

Experience of habitat management, surveying and mapping, data management and analysis

methods using a variety of software including Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

Ability to work within multi-disciplinary teams and also capable of working on his/her own initiative.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to engage with stakeholders.

Ability to build networks and successfully influence key internal and external stakeholders.

Strong organisation and ICT skills.

Good knowledge and awareness of health and safety legislation and safety regulations and

guidelines.

Ability to manage deadlines and effectively handle multiple tasks.

Track record of delivering results.

An understanding of Local Authority services and structures in Ireland, or the ability to quickly

acquire same.

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Competencies for the Post:
Key Competencies for the post include the following and candidates will be expected to demonstrate

sufficient evidence within their application form of competence under each of these. Please take

particular note of these when completing the application form as any short-listing or interview processes

will be based on the information provided by candidates:

Management • Can translate strategy into operational plans and outputs.
& Change: • Displays the ability to think and act strategically.

Demonstrates innovation and creativity to secure successful outcomes.

Has a clear understanding of the political reality and context of the organisation.

Develops and maintains positive, productive and beneficial working relationships

with a range of stakeholders.

Builds networks of technical and professional contacts.

Fully implements safe systems of working in line with Safety Management System.

Effectively manages the introduction of change and overcomes resistance to change.

Delivering • Contributes to operational plans and develops team plans in line with priorities and
Results: actions for their area of operations.

Plans and prioritises work and resources effectively.

Is aware of and understands relevant legislation, regulations, and policies.

Can pinpoint critical information and can address issues logically.

Understands the context and impact of decisions made.

Makes timely, informed and effective decisions and shows good judgement and

balance in making decisions and recommendations.

Promotes the achievement of quality outcomes in delivering services.

Evaluates outcomes, identifies learning and implements improvements required.

Performance • Leads, motivates and engages others, individually and in teams, to achieve quality
Through results.
People: • Leads by example in terms of commitment, flexibility and a strong customer service

ethos.

Empowers and encourages people to deliver their part of the operational plan.

Recognises the value of communicating effectively and actively listens to others.

Has highly effective verbal and written communication skills.

Presents ideas clearly and effectively to individuals and groups.

Establishes positive relationships with their team, internal and external stakeholders.

Strong ability to negotiate and influence others.

Personal • Demonstrates an understanding of the role of Biodiversity Officer in the local
Effectiveness: authority context.

Demonstrates the range and depth of experience, specialist knowledge and training

relevant to the role.

Keeps up to date with current developments, trends and best practice in their area of

expertise and responsibility.

Maintains a positive, constructive and enthusiastic attitude to their role.

Takes initiative and seeks opportunities to exceed goals.

Is self-motivated and persistent when faced with difficulties and obstacles.

Manages time and workload effectively.

Has a strong knowledge and understanding in relation to statutory obligations of

Health and Safety legislation and its application in the workplace.

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Principal Terms and Conditions:
The Office is wholetime, permanent and pensionable. A panel will be formed from which permanent
Biodiversity Officer vacancies arising during the lifetime of the panel (12 months) may be filled.

1. Duties:

The duties of the office are to give to the local authority and

(a) Such other local authorities or bodies for which the Chief Executive, for the purposes of the Local

Government Acts, is Chief Executive, and

(b) to any other local authority or body with which an agreement has been made by the local

authority or by any of the authorities or bodies mentioned in sub-paragraph (a) of this paragraph,

Under the general direction and control of the Chief Executive or of such other officers as the Chief

Executive may from time to time determine, such appropriate services of a technical, administrative,
executive, supervisory, advisory and ancillary nature as are required for the exercise and performance of

any of its powers, duties and functions as may be delegated to him or her by the Chief Executive from

time to time and shall include the duty of deputising for other officers of the local authority.

The local authority sector recognises that in order to support our communities, local enterprises and the

wider public sector to deliver on climate policy ambitions, there needs to be a consistent focus on
building internal capacity and enabling organisational culture change.

The Biodiversity Officer will report to the Climate Action Coordinator or such other officer as designated

by the Chief Executive. The Biodiversity Officer will drive organisational change initiatives, enabling

effective delivery, while building capacity across the partnerships local authorities work with.

The principal duties of the post may include, but will not be limited to the following:

Prepare, manage and implement a Local Authority Biodiversity Action Plan in parallel with the

County Leitrim Heritage Plan and with cross-referencing to the Local Authority Climate Action

Plan.

Establish a County Biodiversity Working Group

Facilitate the implementation of government initiatives in relation to biodiversity and national

plans and programmes that are developed to support the implementation of the National

Biodiversity Action Plan, such as the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan

Advise Leitrim County Council on biodiversity related issues, and the Local Authority’s obligations

in relation to protecting and enhancing biodiversity, as appropriate

Work with Leitrim County Council staff in advancing the protection and enhancement of

biodiversity and support ecosystem services within the Local Authority Area

Assist Leitrim County Council departments in integrating biodiversity protection and

enhancement into their actions and policies, for example through training, supporting
information dissemination etc

Promote new biodiversity initiatives based on best conservation practice

Work with Leitrim County Council led projects and provide advice to colleagues on the

management of ecological resources such as urban woodlands, wetlands, parks, verges, wild

flora grasslands and open areas in a biodiversity-friendly manner

Raise awareness of biodiversity, natural capital and ecosystems services and issues affecting

biodiversity with a broad range of groups

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Commission biodiversity related research, audits and surveys and provide data obtained to the

NBDC and NPWS in a suitable format for reporting purposes

Apply for and deliver biodiversity projects under the Heritage Council funding and National

Biodiversity Action Plan and other available sources of funding

Work closely with the County Heritage Officer and Climate Action Unit on a programme of public

engagement for biodiversity through Field Clubs, Environmental Groups/NGOs, National Heritage
Week, Climate Action Week, Summer Schools and other public events

Support the Irish Environment Network and Community Groups in Leitrim to hold events in the

county for National Biodiversity Week

Be an active participant/member in the County Heritage Forum, and whole-of-Council Climate

Action Committee

Assist Leitrim County Council in fulfilling its remit with regard to Appropriate Assessment,

including providing in house advice to Council departments, engaging consultants, etc.

Facilitate and co-ordinate the implementation of the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan, taking

consideration of the EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030

Undertake any other duties and responsibilities appropriate to the post other than those listed

above as may be required and as may be designated from time to time

Take instructions from and report to an appropriate Officer as may be assigned from time to time

by Leitrim County Council.

These duties are indicative rather than exhaustive and outline the main functions and

responsibilities of the post of the Biodiversity Officer and may be subject to change in the future.

The post holder may therefore be required to perform duties appropriate to the post, other than
those detailed above and to take instruction from and report to an appropriate officer or such

designated officer as may be assigned from time to time by Leitrim County Council.

2. Salary:
The Salary scale for the post of Biodiversity Officer, analogous to Executive Engineer, (Scale effective

from 1st June 2026) is within the range:

€60,858, €63,071, €65,286, €67,505, €69,722, €71,938, €74,157, €76,362,

€78,591, €80,801, €83,348 (LSI1), €84,596 (LSI2)

Entry point to this scale will be determined in accordance with relevant Departmental Circulars. Offers of

appointment to persons who are not serving local authority employees will be based on the minimum of

this scale. Rate of remuneration may be adjusted from time to time in line with Government Policy.

The salary shall be fully inclusive and shall be as determined from time to time. Holders of the office
shall pay to the local authority any fees or other monies (other than their inclusive salary) payable to or

received by them by virtue of their office or in respect of services which they are required by or under any

enactment to perform.

3. Residence:

The holder of the post shall reside in the district in which his or her duties are to be performed or within a

reasonable distance thereof and will be required to serve in the Local Authority’s Offices or wherever
assigned by the Local Authority.

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Leitrim County Council reserves the right to, at any time, re-assign an employee to any Department now

or in the future. Leitrim County Council reserves the right to, at any time, assign an employee to any

premises in use by the Council now or in the future.

4. Probation:
All contracts will be subject to a probationary period, during which the performance of the successful

applicant will be regularly evaluated.

Where a person is permanently appointed to Leitrim County Council the following provisions shall apply:

(a) There shall be a period after appointment takes effect, during which such a person shall hold the

position on probation;
(b) Such period shall be one year but the Chief Executive may, at his/her discretion, extend such period;

this period the Chief Executive has certified that the service is satisfactory;
(d) There will be ongoing assessments during the probationary period.

Employment may be terminated by either party during probation or at the end of the probationary

period on one week’s notice.

5. Health
For the purpose of satisfying the requirement as to health it will be necessary for each successful

candidate, before he/she is appointed to a permanent position, to undergo a medical examination by a

qualified medical practitioner to be nominated by the local authority.

6. Annual Leave:

The annual leave entitlement for this post will be 30 days per annum. Annual leave year is aligned to the
calendar year.

7. Working Hours:
The successful candidate’s normal hours of work will be 35 hours per week. The role will involve flexible

working hours and may include evening and weekend work.

The Council reserves the right to alter hours of work from time to time.

All hours worked will be subject to and recorded in accordance with the provisions of the Organisation of

Working Time Act, 1997 and the Organisation of Working Time Act (Regulations) 2001. Leitrim County
Council requires employees to record their hours worked using a clocking system.

8. Superannuation:

All new entrants to pensionable public service employment on or after 1st January 2013 will be members
of the Single Public Service Pension Scheme.

All members of the Single Public Service Pension Scheme will be required to contribute 3.5% of net

pensionable remuneration plus 3% of pensionable remuneration. Pension and retirement lump sums for

member of the Single Public Service Pension Scheme will be based on career-average pay; pensions will
be co-ordinated with the State Pension Contribution Scheme.

Persons who are pensionable under the Local Government (Superannuation) (Consolidation) Scheme

1998, and are liable to pay the Class A rate of PRSI contribution, will be required in respect of

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superannuation to contribute to the local authority at the rate of 1.5% of pensionable remuneration plus

3.5% of net pensionable remuneration (i.e. pensionable remuneration less twice the annual rate of social

insurance old age contributory pension payable at the maximum rate to a person with no adult

dependant or qualified children). You will also be required in respect of the Local Government (Spouses

and Childrens’ Contributory Pension) Scheme to contribute to the local authority at the rate of 1.5% of
pensionable remuneration in accordance with the terms of the Scheme.

Persons who become pensionable officers of a local authority who are liable to pay the Class D rate of

PRSI contribution will be required in respect of his/her superannuation to contribute to the local

authority at the rate of 5% of pensionable remuneration. You may also be required to pay Spouses and
Children/Widows and Orphans contributions at the rate of 1.5% of pensionable remuneration.

9. Retirement Age:

The Single Public Service Pension Scheme (“Single Scheme”) as provided by the Public Service Pensions
(Single Scheme and Other Provisions) Act 2012 commenced with effect from 1st January 2013. The act

introduced new retirement provisions for new entrants to the public service appointed on or after 1st

January 2013, as well as to former public servants returning to the public service after a break of more
than 26 weeks. In accordance with Circular Letter 24/2020 Single Pension Scheme Members normal

retirement age will be in line with the age of eligibility for the State Pension (Contributory). Compulsory

Retirement Age will be 70.

There is no mandatory retirement age for “new entrants” to the public service as defined in the Public
Service Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2004.

Anyone who is “not a new entrant” to the public service, as defined in the Public Service Superannuation

(Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2004, is subject to a compulsory retirement age of 65 years – the Public

Service Superannuation (Age of Retirement) Act 2018 provides for an increase in the compulsory
retirement age of most pre-2004 public servants from age 65 to age 70.

10. Pension Abatement

If an appointee has previously been employed in the Civil or Public Service and that appointee is entitled
to, or in receipt of, a pension from the Civil or Public Service, or where a Civil/Public Service pension

comes into payment during the appointee’s re-employment, that pension will be subject to abatement

in accordance with Section 52 of the Public Service Pensions (Single Scheme and other Provisions) Act
2012.

Please note: In applying for this position, you are acknowledging that you understand that the

abatement provisions, where relevant, will apply. It is not envisaged that the employing

Department/Office/Body will support an application for an abatement waiver in respect of appointments
to this position.

11. Drivers Licence / Travel:
Holders of the post may from time to time be required to travel in the course of their duties and for this

purpose they shall possess a current unendorsed full driving license (Category B) and shall drive a motor

car in the course of their duties and provide and maintain a car to the satisfaction of the local authority.
The post holder’s Insurance policy must cover such use and must indemnify Leitrim County Council.

Travel and subsistence expenses will be paid in accordance with nationally agreed rates applicable in

the sector.

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12. Garda Vetting:

The successful candidate may be subject to the Garda Vetting Procedures in line with the provisions of

the National Vetting Bureau (Children & Vulnerable Persons) Act 2012 to 2016 as appropriate in advance
of appointment.

13. Outside Employment

The position is whole-time and the employee may not engage in private practice or be connected with

any outside business which would interfere with the performance of official duties.

14. Data Protection:
Please note that the information received is used solely for the purpose of considering your application.

Such information held is subject to the rights and obligations set out in the Data Protection Acts, 1988,

2003 & 2018 and EU Regulation 2016/679.

SELECTION PROCESS

(i) Selection shall be by means of a competition based on an interview conducted by or on behalf of
the local authority.

(ii) Leitrim County Council reserves the right to shortlist applications on the basis of information

supplied on the application form and only those shortlisted will be called for interview.

(iii) Candidates called for interview will be assessed on the competencies for the post as set out
above.

(iv) A panel may be formed on the basis of such interview. Candidates whose names are on a panel

and who satisfy the local authority that they possess the qualifications declared for the position

and that they are otherwise suitable for appointment may within the life of the panel be

appointed to this post. The life of the panel will not be more than 12 months from the date of

formation of the panel.
(v) The local authority shall require a person to whom an appointment is offered to take up such

appointment within a period of not more than one month and if they fail to take up the

appointment within such period or longer period as the local authority in its absolute discretion

may determine, the local authority shall not appoint them.

All applications must be made on the official Application Form which is available to download on

Leitrim County Council’s website www.leitrim.ie or alternatively, contact the Human Resources
Department (Email: [email protected])

Completed Application Forms (inclusive of all required documentation) must be submitted in PDF
Format only as One Single Document (not individual scanned documents).

CLOSING DATE:

Completed Application Forms must be submitted by 4:00 p.m. on Thursday 16th July 2026 via
email only to [email protected]. Applications received after this date and time will not be

considered.

Please quote ‘Biodiversity Officer Application’ followed by your name in the subject line of
the email.

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Candidates will receive an automatic acknowledgement when they submit their application form

to the above email. You should check your Spam/Junk Folders in the event that you do not receive

this acknowledgement. The onus is on the candidate to ensure that their application has been

received and acknowledged.

The responsibility rests with the applicant to ensure that their application form is received by the

Human Resources Department of Leitrim County Council on time as outlined above. Candidates should

ensure that they give themselves sufficient time to allow for any unforeseen circumstances which may
arise and which may impact on their application form not being received on time.

NOTES:

Applicants are reminded that any attempt by themselves or by any persons acting on their behalf

directly or indirectly by means of written communication or otherwise to canvass or otherwise influence
in the applicants favour any employee of the County Council or persons nominated by the Chief

Executive to interview or examine applicants, will automatically disqualify the applicant for the position
they are seeking.

Leitrim County Council is an equal opportunities employer.

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