Permitting Officer 1 - 6809

We are looking for enthusiastic and highly motivated individuals to join a number of teams that determine Water Quality and Water Resources permits in Solihull. There are 5 vacancies available:
Permitting Officer 1, Water Resources: 2 permanent posts
Permitting Officer 1, Water Resources: Assignment until 30/4/2018
Permitting Officer 1, Water Quality: 1 permanent post
Permitting Officer 1, Water Quality: 12 month assignment

Important: Please indicate which of the above post(s) you are applying for in the 1st competency based question on the application form.

You'll carry out appropriate technical assessments in accordance with Environment Agency policies and procedures and issue, refuse or vary permits/licences in a timely manner and within budget.

You'll produce appropriate records of actions and outcomes to justify and demonstrate that all legal and procedural requirements have been met and give advice and guidance to operators and consultees to ensure understanding of the permitting process.

You will also provide support and coaching to other team members as required to ensure that decisions are made on sound technical grounds and in line with best practice and required standards and timeframes.

You will be joining one of four permitting teams in the National Permitting Service (NPS) and will be supported by your Senior Permitting Officer and Team Leader. The teams sit within a network of other teams determining the same work who will offer further support and guidance.

The NPS has responsibility for delivering the majority of the Environment Agency’s permitting responsibilities. Our teams strive to enable businesses to operate whilst protecting the environment.

We’re seeking individuals with experience in Environmental Management and an understanding of the Environment Agency’s role and responsibilities. You’ll be qualified to degree level (or equivalent) preferably in a science or humanities subject and possess knowledge of:

• Coaches others
• Influences & persuades others
• Works in teams
• Takes decisions & solves problems
• Manages self

Key requirements for this job include excellent communication and customer service skills. Proficiency in Microsoft office and the ability to work well under pressure and as part of a team, are required.

You will also be expected to coach and mentor others within your team with the support of your Senior Permitting Officer, so experience in coaching & mentoring is required.

Interviews for the posts will consist of a competency based interview and a written exercise. There will be a different written assessment for the Water Quality and the Water Resources posts.

We are fully committed to having an inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applications from candidates seeking flexible working patterns, including job share. Please highlight any information regarding preferred flexible working arrangements on your application.

The role will be primarily office based. Infrequent travel may be required to attend meetings or training. For further details please contact Dan Timney daniel.timney@environment-agency.gov.uk or 07769 235 392.

Closing date for applicants is: 31st October 2017 at 23:55 hours

Uses variety of methods, including direct instruction, coaching and feedback skills to help others to develop. Please give an example of when you have coached an individual or a group of people to learn a new skill.

Presenting a case in a convincing and attractive way that will win people over, encouraging them to follow plans willingly; often succeeding where logic and reason alone would fail.

Works co-operatively as part of a team to achieve common goals. Give an example of when you have worked in a team to achieve a particular goal.

Has full awareness of own strengths, weaknesses, impact and approach.
Effectively organises self and takes personal responsibility for own role in the Environment Agency.
Explain how you plan your work to meet deadlines.

Finds and delivers optimal solutions by effectively analysing all the information, probing to develop alternatives and taking sound and timely decisions. Explain when you have made an important decision within a specific timeframe.