Property Ecologist

The Hadrian’s Wall portfolio is comprised of several properties in the Tyne Valley, each supporting a wide variety of priority habitats and protected species. In this highly designated area, you will lead the development of a survey, monitoring and recording program and to support our conservation work. 

Working in some of the nation’s most stunning places and spaces, come rain or shine, your love of the outdoors will inspire others as you strive to ensure we do the best for land, nature and people.

Hours: Part time 3 to 3.5 days per week 

Salary: FTE £30,966pa Actual £18,579pa

Contract: Permanent 

Interviews: 17th and / or 18th April 

If you have any questions about this role please contact: .uk

Please apply with both CV and Covering letter (no more than 1 page of A4) explaining what knowledge and experience you could bring to the role.

As part of a countryside team based from Cherryburn, you’ll work across a portfolio of sites which includes the iconic Hadrian's Wall World Heritage site, Allen Banks & Staward Gorge, Bellister, Cherryburn and George Stephenson’s Birthplace. The countryside team is small covering a large and diverse area, because of this good teamwork and communication is essential to ensure we deliver our objectives. Some weekend, bank holiday and evening work will be required. 

Travel between the properties on the portfolio is only possible by car so a full UK driving licence is also essential

You'll lead on the planning and delivery of nature conservation monitoring, survey and recording across the portfolio. Inputting ecological advice to site management planning and species recovery initiatives and seeking opportunities to promote our ecological work. You'll produce high quality information on the condition and status of species and habitats across the property. You'll be the ‘go to’ person for support and expert advice on ecological issues. You'll have a good understanding of nature conservation legislation and designations and their requirements in relation to countryside management. Working in a way that ensures you and your team are compliant with relevant legislation, health and safety and National Trust procedures.

You'll seek opportunities to build and maintain strong professional relationships with a range of stakeholders including colleagues, tenants, partners, volunteers and visitors. Whilst building a network of volunteers, consultants and external groups to support your work. 

You’ll also be responsible for identifying opportunities to promote ecology and nature conservation to a wide range of audiences. Parts of our sites are quite remote with some steep and rugged terrain. To meet the demands of the role, both team and lone working with a buddy system is required. 

Please see the full role profile, and additional information documents attached to this advert.

• A good understanding of ecology and land management with either a degree in ecology or other natural sciences, or a number of years’ experience working in the countryside in an area related to ecology or nature conservation
• Experience of providing evidence-based advice and sharing best practice on habitat management and creation for nature conservation, including protected species and sites
• Good identification skills for British plant and animal communities and experience of standard survey and monitoring techniques, such as NVC and Common Standards 
• Experience of a range of survey and monitoring techniques including UKHabs and protected species. The ability to translate survey and monitoring data into effective land management guidance and plans. Woodland, Peatland and Grassland are key habitats here.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation, policy and grant schemes across England
• Ability to build effective internal and external relationships with staff, tenants, partners and volunteers including volunteer management. 
• Good IT skills including GIS and databases. Analytical ability
• Good written and verbal communication skills including the ability to write concise and coherent reports for project management, and for marcomms works, social media etc.

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 such as 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 Trust places

• Independent financial advice

Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.