Overview

Help shape nature-rich neighbourhoods through community-led action. Use your ecological expertise to inform and inspire the creation and development of community nature reserves that deliver impactful solutions for people and wildlife.

Avon Wildlife Trust is seeking an experienced Ecologist to undertake site visits and produce high-quality reports in response to community priorities for nature. The role also includes carrying out desk-based research to develop a strong understanding of local environments and inform practical, evidence-based recommendations.

The successful candidate will bring a sound knowledge of wildlife legislation, urban nature-based solutions, and approaches to enhancing ecological connectivity across urban, suburban, and rural landscapes.

They will be confident in delivering training and practical guidance to communities and organisations, supporting them to create and sustain nature-rich neighbourhoods across the region. An effective and engaging communicator, they will use their expertise to inspire a diverse range of audiences about native wildlife and encourage meaningful action for nature.

The role is being advertised at 3 or 4 days (22.5 or 30 hours per week) for 10 months.

We are applying for funding to increase the role to full time (37 hours per week) and to extend the contract to be 2.5 years in total, but this is not guaranteed. We hope to know by interview stage if the funding bid has been successful.

Some evening an weekend work will be required for which TOIL (Time Off In Lieu) will be awarded.

Requirements

Essential:

  • Proven experience, and confidence in, providing ecological advice for habitat creation and land management for a range of settings
  • Experience of delivery of training and workshops that capture the interest of, and engage a wide range of audiences
  • Experience of creating a range of small -scale wildlife habitats, particularly in urban settings
  • Excellent knowledge and understanding of nature conservation principles and practices
  • Excellent knowledge and understanding of UK environmental legislation relating to habitats and biodiversity
  • Good working knowledge and experience of GIS mapping programmes
  • High level of communication skills, both orally and written
  • Excellent inter -personal skills, including management of long -term stakeholder relationships
  • Highly literate and numerate
  • Hold a full driving licence and have access to own vehicle

Desirable:

  • Experience of working collaboratively with a wide range of people
  • Good knowledge of local nature recovery strategies
  • Experience of creating ecological advisory resources in a range of formats
  • Confidence to develop new ideas and approaches

Personal qualities:

  • Passionate about the value of healthy ecosystems and connected habitats for the protection of wildlife for the future
  • A self -starter, able to manage varied workstreams
  • Creative and innovative
  • Positive and outward-looking
  • Confident and clear communicator with a genuine desire to work in collaboration with others
  • Interest in wildlife and nature conservation and supportive of the aims of the Wildlife Trusts

If you would like to discuss this role or have any questions, please email hr@avonwildlifetrust.org.uk and a conversation can be arranged.

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