Species Recovery Officer

Salary £29,400 - £30,000 depending on experience + 7% pension contribution

Location Shrewsbury, Shropshire

The Vacancy

35 hours per week

Fixed Term Contract until March 31st 2026, with expectation that this will become permanent depending upon funding

Closing date 12noon on 2nd December

Interviews will be held on 11th and 12th December

Shropshire Wildlife Trust is seeking a project officer to lead and expand our species recovery workstream. This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in achieving our objective of having nature in recovery, with abundant and diverse wildlife thriving in wilder landscapes.

As the Species Recovery Officer, you will be responsible for managing a range of farm-based conservation projects, including:

The Great Crested Newt District Level Licensing (GCN DLL) scheme, where we act as a Habitat Delivery Body for Natural England

The "Wild Highways" scheme, working in partnership with farmer cluster groups in the Clee Hills and private businesses to deliver habitat connectivity at landscape scale for Hazel Dormouse. Sites for improvement will be identified and other sources of funding sought, such as EWCO (England Woodland Creation Offer) ; ELMS (Environmental Land Management Scheme) & SFI (Sustainable Farm incentive); to complement the existing capital budget. All projects require pre and post works monitoring, close liaison with the participating landowners and contract supervision for the selected contractor.

Alongside these existing initiatives, you will be expected to identify new opportunities and develop additional species recovery or reintroduction projects that might include water vole, white stork, crane, osprey and beavers. This will involve seeking out and securing complementary funding from a variety of sources.

What we're looking for:

· Ecological knowledge of a range of species with at least one specialism

· Knowledge of priority habitats and how best to conserve them

· A good understanding of relevant legislation in respect to nature conservation, agricultural regulations and health and safety

· Experience in surveying and monitoring a range of species

· An ability to negotiate and persuade tactfully to secure positive environmental outcomes on farms and private land

· Experience of applying for funding or grants

Please note due to the nature of the role a clean driving licence and access to own vehicle is required.

The Trust is committed to building an equal, diverse and inclusive workforce we encourage applications from a diverse range of suitably qualified candidates. Please let us know if you require any adjustments to make our recruitment process more accessible.

Why work for us - benefits we offer:

· 25 days holiday plus Bank Holidays and Service related holiday (pro-rated for part time staff)

· Salary sacrifice benefits

· Life assurance

· Generous pension - company contribution 7%, employee contribution 3%

· Enhanced Sick Pay

· Flexible working policy

· Employee Assistance Programme

· Staff discounts

· Employee away days

· Coaching

· Support with training and development to assist career progression

· Inclusive & supportive work atmosphere

Safeguarding:

Shropshire Wildlife Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk. For applicable roles, applicants must be willing to undergo reference checks with past employers and Disclosure and Barring Service checks at the appropriate level

No enquiries from agencies or for further advertising will be taken.

Who we are

Shropshire Wildlife Trust (SWT) has a vision of a thriving natural world, where Shropshire's wildlife and natural habitats play a valued role in addressing the climate and ecological emergencies, and people are inspired and empowered to take action for nature. We combine projects across Shropshire (including Telford & Wrekin) with advocacy and campaigning to restore nature and to engage people. We manage over 40 nature reserves and have almost 50 staff, 300 volunteers, and over 9000 members. SWT is an autonomous charity, but we are increasingly working collectively, as part of The Wildlife Trusts (TWT), to ensure that our local actions have a national impact and help to address global issues.

We value courage, respect, integrity, trust and responsibility. Whilst we are passionate in promoting our aims, we are not judgemental and are inclusive. We want our people to be as diverse as nature, so we particularly encourage applications from people who are underrepresented within our sector, including people from minority backgrounds and people with disabilities. We are committed to creating a movement that recognises and truly values individual differences and identities.

As a Disability Confident employer, we are committed to offering an interview to anyone with a disability that meets all the essential criteria for the post. Please let us know if you require any adjustments to make our recruitment process more accessible.

What we do