Grassland Conservation Officer

Are you a passionate ecologist looking for your next challenge?

Do you have a specialism in grassland restoration and experience planning and delivering a variety of grassland conservation projects?

We have an exciting and rewarding opportunity for a Grassland Conservation Officer to join our dedicated Grassland and Pollinator team.

Cumbria Wildlife Trust has been at the forefront of species-rich grassland conservation in Cumbria for over 20 years delivering successful and celebrated projects such as Meadow Life and Get Cumbria Buzzing. This role will enable us to deliver species-rich grassland restoration and enhancement projects across Cumberland and Westmorland & Furness.

About the role and main responsibilities:

The post holder will be responsible for coordinating and facilitating a programme of species-rich grassland enhancement/restoration for a variety of projects and key responsibilities will include;

• Contacting landowners, to obtain landowner agreement/permissions and carry out grassland surveys at specified sites.
• Plan and organise enhancement/restoration schemes including the identification of doner sites for seed, and/or green hay and/or plug planting.
• Produce site-specific restoration/management plans, arrange contractors and coordinate on site delivery of grassland works.
• Provide follow-up discussions with landowners and tenants.
• Contribute to the collection and management of the Trust's grassland data and mapping.

Other accountabilities

The role will also include delivering a range of grassland restoration/management training where needed for staff, partners and landowners (including smallholders) to include:

• Planning and delivering ID courses, talks, demonstration days, volunteer work parties, community planting days, open meadows & guided walks
• Supporting and working alongside the Trust's network of volunteers and developing alongside the Trust's network of volunteers and developing new opportunities for the improvement of people in conservation.
• Building and maintaining relationships with key partners including Natural England, National Trust, National Highways, local authorities, farmers ad landowners.

The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, organised and aspire to excellence in their work. Previous experience delivering on grassland restoration and enhancement projects and good knowledge of a range of grassland habitats and their management: along with experience working with farmers and landowners, volunteers and partnerships would also be advantageous. 

To apply, please click on the link below.

The closing date for applications is 9 am on Monday 3 February 2025.

Interviews will be held the week commencing 10 February 2025 at our Headquarters in Kendal. 

Expected start date: March-April 2025.

Only short listed candidates will be contacted. If you have not heard anything within 14 days of the closing date, please assume your application has not been successful.

Cumbria Wildlife Trust is devoted to the conservation of the wildlife and wild places of Cumbria.