As part of a team of trainees within the nature reserves team, you will assist in nature reserve management across a variety of habitats including heathlands, woodlands, meadows and wetlands. The role will involve habitat management using a variety of tools, installing and repairing reserve infrastructure such as boardwalks and bird hides, driving off-road vehicles & machinery, species surveying & specialist management as well as working with and supervising volunteers in a variety of practical conservation tasks. 

• 5 x placements from early April to the end of the following March

Applications for the next round of placements typically open in January or February each year. Please keep an eye on our jobs page for further updates.

The role

Purpose of the role

To assist the reserves team with the management of nature reserves across Worcestershire and to assist other departments within the Trust on small projects.

The role is intended to provide the experience and skills necessary to pursue a career in UK wildlife conservation.

Role benefits

• The placements are unpaid but a structured personal budget is available to cover externally certified training in first aid, brush-cutter and chainsaw. Some costs for personal equipment and expenses towards interest-specific courses will also be covered.

• The opportunity to learn the theory and practice of reserve management from a friendly and knowledgeable team of reserve officers and volunteers.

• Gain hands-on experience of practical conservation and develop relevant skills.

• Work with other departments within the Trust to gain a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Experience &/or qualifications needed (Requirements)

Essential Criteria

• Aged 18 or over.
• An interest in UK wildlife conservation and desire to work in the sector.
• Appropriate level of physical fitness.
• Willing to work outdoors in all weather.
• Willingness to use power tools.
• Ability to work with a range of people from different age groups and backgrounds.
• A desire to learn and develop practical skills.
• Good team working and ability to work towards shared goals.

Desirable Criteria

• Full driving license and willingness to drive Wildlife Trust vehicles.
• Good IT skills.
• Mechanical aptitude.

Times/days we would like you to be available

• Every week for 12 months excluding agreed leave.

• 3 days a week working 9:00 - 17:00 Tuesday -Thursdays.
• A commitment to a 12-month traineeship is essential.
• Occasional evening and weekend events as agreed.

Responsible to

Practical Land Management Officer.

We’re Wild About Inclusion

To us, this means inspiring, empowering and engaging people from all backgrounds, cultures, identities and abilities, to change the natural world for the better.  It also means cultivating inclusive workspaces that are free from discrimination, where differences are valued, everyone can be themselves and flourish, just like nature!