Overview

Part‑time or full‑time (21–35 hours per week)
Salary £32,597 – £34,434 for full time 35hpw, pro-rata for part time hours
Initial 12 month contract with possible extension
Based in Cardington, with travel across Bedfordshire

Use your knowledge and skills to make a real difference

Are you passionate about protecting and enhancing the natural world? Do you thrive outdoors, enjoy working with communities, and want your ecological expertise to make a real difference? BRCC is looking for an enthusiastic Ecology & Environment Officer to join our friendly Green Infrastructure Team and help shape a greener, more biodiverse Bedfordshire.

Why this role matters

At BRCC, we believe that a thriving natural environment benefits individuals and strengthens communities. In this role, you’ll be at the heart of that mission—combining ecological consultancy, hands‑on site management, community engagement, and strategic influence to support nature recovery across the county.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll enjoy a varied and meaningful workload, including:

Ecological Consultancy

  • Carrying out ecological surveys and habitat assessments
  • Producing high‑quality reports and advising on biodiversity enhancement
  • Applying Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) principles to real‑world projects

Countryside Site Management

  • Supporting the management of a suite of countryside sites
  • Providing wardening services and ecological advice
  • Writing management plans and delivering practical habitat improvements

Volunteer Engagement

  • Recruiting, training, and inspiring volunteers
  • Leading practical conservation work parties and wildlife/river surveys
  • Ensuring robust health & safety and risk assessments

Catchment Partnership Support

  • Contributing to the Upper & Bedford Ouse Catchment Partnership
  • Participating in working groups and supporting project delivery

Community & Green Infrastructure Projects

  • Assisting with initiatives such as Green Wheels, Community Gardens, and wider community engagement programmes

Strategic Influence

  • Representing BRCC on county‑wide groups and panels
  • Helping shape local plans and policies that support biodiversity

Where you’ll work

Your main base will be our Cardington headquarters, but you’ll spend plenty of time out on sites across Bedfordshire. Some home‑working can be arranged with your Line Manager.

We offer flexible working for part‑time hours (21–35 per week), worked across agreed days. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required.

What you’ll bring

Essential

  • Degree (or equivalent) in Ecology, Biology, Environmental Science, or a related field
  • Experience in ecological fieldwork, including species and habitat surveys
  • Knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain
  • Excellent written and verbal communication
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Desirable

  • CIEEM membership (Associate or above)
  • Botanical knowledge (FISC Level 3+)
  • GCN or bat licence (or working towards one)
  • Experience working with volunteers
  • Experience in community‑based environmental schemes

Why join BRCC?

  • Work with a passionate, supportive team
  • Make a tangible impact on Bedfordshire’s environment and communities
  • Enjoy a varied role that blends fieldwork, strategy, and community engagement
  • Help shape the future of local biodiversity and green infrastructure

How to apply

Please view, download and complete the Job pack documents.

Job Application Form
Diversity & Inclusion Monitoring Form
Please send your completed: to Nicola.scholfield@bedsrcc.org.uk

Or post to:
BRCC, The Old School, Cardington, Bedford MK44 3SX

Application Deadline: 9.00am Monday 20th April

Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an in-person interview at our office in Cardington on Friday 24th April

Informal enquiries:
Nicola Scholfield, Green Infrastructure Team Leader
Nicola.scholfield@bedsrcc.org.uk