At Natural England, we advise the UK Government on the natural environment. We’re here to make sure people and nature can thrive. From advising farmers on sustainable land management, to gathering and analysing environmental data, and promoting health and wellbeing through the great outdoors, we love what we do. Join us and you’ll be part of an inclusive, motivated and ambitious team, committed to achieving results for our environment, for everyone.
As a Senior Specialist in Air Quality you’ll focus on the way aerial emissions from sources including agriculture, industry and road transport affect our ambitions for nature recovery. At Natural England, we concentrate on the impacts and risk to wildlife and habitats arising from atmospheric emission of reactive nitrogen, but our work includes building awareness and seeking solutions to other types of air pollution. We aim to turn air quality strategy and wider environmental policies into positive and tangible outcomes for wildlife. This includes working with Defra to support policy-making, assisting pollution regulators and local planning authorities, and advising farmers.
Working closely with two other national air quality specialists, you will have a key role in developing and promoting these solutions. Specifically, you will gather, interpret and make use of evidence of the impact of air quality on biodiversity, both to influence national policy and to tackle its effects on protected sites at a local level. You will provide expert, practical advice while working with Defra, the Environment Agency and other external partners to support delivery of the 25 Year Environment Plan. This will include identifying air pollution remedies and keeping abreast of new and emerging techniques. As the impact of aerial emissions on sensitive habitats is only just beginning to receive proper attention, it’s an opportunity to make a real difference.
To succeed, you’ll need to be an expert in air quality issues, and their impact on the natural environment. Experience of complex or high-risk casework relating to air quality is essential, including an understanding of relevant legislation and policy such as the Clean Air Strategy and 25 Year Environment Plan. Knowledge of the use of modelling and monitoring evidence in decision-making is important. Some familiarity with atmospheric chemistry would be desirable, and you will be aware of the broader context of climate change and greenhouse gas emissions. Highly analytical, you’ll also have exceptional communication skills and the ability to convey specialist knowledge to many different audiences.
We welcome and encourage applications from all communities and, wherever possible, we accommodate requests for both full and part-time hours and other flexible working patterns. Everyone at Natural England is supported to develop their skills and capabilities. You can also look forward to great benefits including a Civil Service pension.
If you’re inspired to protect and enhance England’s wildlife and want to work for a leading science-led organisation,find out more and apply.
Closing date: 12 January 2022.
