Nature Conservation Adviser

We’re delighted to share that we are looking for a part-time Nature Conservation Adviser to support the National Trust deliver conservation work in the South West (covering properties in Bristol, Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds). If your application is successful, you’ll be out on-site at some of the most beautiful places in the region. You’ll work alongside conservation specialists with a wealth of knowledge and be using your expertise to make a difference for our region’s natural environment and historic places. 

You'll be an instrumental lead in restoring a healthier and more beautiful natural environment and delivering change which will help nature thrive. You'll play an integral part in supporting sustainable management of our natural places, from the landscape scale to protected species conservation. You will not only be working alongside other inspirational consultants within the organisation, but with our partners too, to ensure that we safeguard the wealth of our natural heritage and maximise the benefits that this brings to us all. 

You'll be working 2.5 days per week (18.75 hours), however we can be flexible with working patterns and are happy to explore and agree a working arrangement which strikes the right balance for both you and the Trust. We work within a hybrid working model which includes working at home if appropriate.

Salary: £21,704 per annum (£43,407 full-time equivalent)

What it's like to work here

This is how one of our Nature Conservation Advisor describes their role: 

“The National Trust is an exciting and progressive place to work in Nature Conservation. As a major landowner, we have an ambition to restore 25,000 ha of nature-rich habitats by 2025 and it is great to feel that I am making a positive difference for nature in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

I’m part of a team which also care for some the countries most important nature sites. We have significant areas of SSSI, NNR, SAC and SPA under our stewardship, so I not only work to restore nature, but advise on and oversee the management of our rarest habitats and species.

One of the best aspects of working for the Trust is the scale and diversity of nature I encounter. From iconic landscapes, with semi-natural habitats stretching as far as the eye can see, to protecting greater horseshoe bat roosts in historic mansions, no two days are the same, and each day there’s the opportunity to make a long-lasting difference.” 

What you'll be doing

You’ll be the lead Nature Conservation Adviser across our Bristol, Cotswolds and Gloucestershire properties. These sites include internationally important veteran trees and grasslands at Leigh Woods and Rodborough Common; extensive tracts of limestone grasslands across the Cotswolds and large estates at Tyntesfield and Sherborne (Cotswolds). 

You will provide first rate advice, guidance, and support to properties on Nature Conservation and restoration including species, habitats, earth science features, ecosystems services and management in both the countryside and built environment. 

You will be responsible for supporting properties in delivering their statutory Nature Conservation objectives and overseeing local delivery of the Trust’s strategy to restore 25,000ha ha of nature-rich habitat nationally. In addition, you will work closely with consultancy colleagues and property staff to support the Trust’s ambition to plant 20 million trees. 

You will also work beyond our boundaries, working collaboratively with neighbouring landowners and employees to deliver landscape-scale nature recovery projects. 

This role requires travel to properties that are often quite remote, as such a driving licence and access to your own vehicle is essential. 

Who we're looking for

• A professional environmentalist with substantial Nature Conservation knowledge including external issues, legislation, policy, practice, instructions, and guidance.
• Experience in designing and delivering nature recovery projects, caring for protected sites, and advising on habitats and species management.
• Experience in communicating and collaborating with a range of partners, including professional ecologists, farmers, and non-specialists. 
• Someone with a pro-active and inclusive approach to problem solving. 
• Someone with an understanding of wider conservation assets and priorities (e.g., archaeology, designed landscapes, etc.) 

Please see the role profile attached to this advert.

The package

The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.

• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
• Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
• Tax free childcare scheme
• Rental deposit loan scheme
• Season ticket loan
• Perks at work discounts i.e. gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
• Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.
• Flexible working whenever possible
• Employee assistance programme
• Free parking at most locations
• Independent financial advice