Tackling climate change is one of the Council’s top priorities and in March 2019 we declared a Climate Emergency that pledged to make Plymouth carbon neutral by 2030.
We have continued to work towards a carbon neutral economy, this has included teaming up with partners to secure funding to deliver various innovative and exciting projects to help further our environmental goals.
In order to achieve our climate targets and progress these projects, we need to expand upon the already talented and dedicated people in the city, by further recruiting and developing our green skills.
Do you want to join us in making a real difference?
We know the environmental sector is of among the most inspiring and our new projects will provide opportunities for training, skills and employment for those who already work in this field, those looking to change their careers and those just getting started in their working life.
The Council recently recruited four new apprentices to our Parks and Low Carbon Teams, providing vital training for young adults in project management, horticulture and arboriculture work. Additionally, we’re in the process of recruiting three new Landscape Technician apprentices to help with the delivery of our Green Minds programme.
We recognise the importance of retaining our talent and we are committed to supporting our young trainees to advance. Hayley Partridge is an example of this, she joined the Council in 2018 as a trainee on our Active Neighbourhoods project and has since gone on to secure a new role as a Natural Infrastructure Officer.
Hayley Partridge, Natural Infrastructure Officer, Plymouth City Council said: “The traineeship provided vital networking opportunities which enabled me to develop relationships with many organisations and community groups that I continue to work with today.
“I have learned to plan, monitor and deliver projects in line with their specific funding application. It’s great to have been able to stay with the team and progress onto a new role. I really enjoy the variety of work and making a positive difference to the residents and wildlife in Plymouth.”
What roles can I apply for?
The Council was recently awarded the Interreg France (Channel) England funding to support vulnerable communities who are at risk of flooding. This two-year project will deliver four new posts - an experienced Project Manager, a Community Engagement and Campaigns Officer, an Assistant Engineer and an Administrative Support role.
Furthermore, we will soon be announcing opportunities for three Natural Infrastructure Officers, these roles will be key to supporting projects in our parks and marine environments.
Even if you’re not looking for a job specifically, but you want to gain some experience or develop your skills in this thriving sector, then we have lots of different volunteering opportunities. This could involve becoming a Citizen Scientist on our Green Minds programme, where you will learn about animal management at our base at Poole Farm or take part in shoreline litter picks, community events and surveys with our Preventing Plastics Pollution programme.
Councillor Sue Dann, Plymouth City Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Street Scene said: “Plymouth’s Climate Emergency Action Plan and Resurgam COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan both recognise the positive impact that investing in green projects can have on the environment whilst protecting and creating local jobs.
“We believe we have the right people here in Plymouth and we’re offering rewarding job opportunities that aim to develop the skills that can go on to support long-standing careers.”
For details on these and all other Plymouth City Council roles, please visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/jobscareersandtraining