Land Use Policy Officer

We are facing a nature and climate emergency. RSPB Scotland is working hard to make the case for food and farming, forestry and other land use policies that will tackle the problems and deliver solutions. We now have a vacancy for a Land Use Policy Officer to join the team and contribute to our policy research, advocacy and campaigning work. You'll work on a range of land use policy topics, with some emphasis on food and farming initially.

What's the role about?

This is an exciting opportunity to influence the laws and policies which affect nature. This is a varied role with opportunities to undertake policy research, develop new policy ideas and advocate for change, including through effective communication and campaign activities. You will contribute to developing policy positions on land use topics and work with our scientists, conservation and advisory teams to bring their knowledge and practical experience into policy. Good communication skills and an understanding of the importance of social media and campaigns in supporting policy advocacy are essential.

Day-to-day, you will contribute to the writing of external policy reports, consultation responses, briefings and other material. You may also participate in the development and delivery of projects, internally and with relevant external partners, that further our policy advocacy objectives.

This is a hybrid role which can accommodate home working. There will be a requirement to attend regular meetings at Scotland HQ and external meetings in Edinburgh and other locations.

Essential Skills, Knowledge And Experience

• Educated to degree level or equivalent and/or work experience relevant to the role
• Able to analyse complex issues in a fast paced environment.
• Able to negotiate with and influence others
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Strong time management and organisational skills

Desirable Skills, Knowledge And Experience

• Experience of operating in a policy and/or advocacy role.
• An understanding of the role of public facing communications/campaigns in supporting policy advocacy.
• An understanding of land use and environment policy, especially in relation to food and farming.
• Working understanding of relevant Scottish and UK institutions

We are looking to conduct interviews for this position on 15th/16th August 2023 For further information, please contact [email protected] - [email protected]

This is a Permanent role for 37.5 hours per week.

As part of this application process you will be asked to complete an application form including evidence on how you meet the skills, knowledge, and experience listed above.

We are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse RSPB, in which everyone feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. To achieve our vision of creating a world richer in nature, we need more people on nature's side and more diverse people. People of colour and disabled people are underrepresented across the environment, climate, sustainability, and conservation sectors. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we are particularly interested in receiving your application. Contact us to discuss any additional support you may need to complete your application.

Should you require any reasonable adjustment please do get in touch.

The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

The RSPB is a licenced sponsor. This role is eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship

Before applying for this role, we recommend reading through the candidate guidance notes attached to the top of this advert.