Location
Peil Wyke, Bassenthwaite, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9YG

Hours
37 hours per week

Salary
£30,105 per annum

About the Role
Forestry England is a passionate team dedicated to growing the nation’s forests for everyone. We are adapting landscapes for tomorrow while creating amazing places and experiences today. We provide vital homes for wildlife, improve air quality, and produce sustainable timber.

The Assistant Species Recovery Officer will work across the western North District, assisting the Species Recovery Officer with public and stakeholder engagement, ecological monitoring, habitat improvements, and the development of translocation plans. The role requires travel across England and includes some evening, weekend, and on-call working.

This fixed-term position runs until 31st March 2029, with the possibility of extension or permanency.

Benefits
Alongside your salary, Forestry England contributes an average of 28.97% towards your pension through the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension Scheme. You will receive 25 days holiday per year, increasing by one day per year of service up to 30 days (pro-rated for part-time employees), plus bank holidays.

Additional benefits include the STaR employee benefits scheme offering discounts on everyday shopping and services, free parking at Forestry England sites, free entry to National Arboretums at Westonbirt and Bedgebury, and a commitment to lifelong learning and career development through professional development support and sponsored membership of professional bodies.

Experience
Experience relevant to species recovery, ecological monitoring, habitat management, or public engagement is desirable. Ability to work independently and as part of a team across multiple locations is essential.

About you
You will be enthusiastic, motivated, and passionate about conservation and biodiversity. Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills are required, along with flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and on-call as needed. A willingness to travel across England is essential.

You should be able to demonstrate the Civil Service behaviours of Seeing the Big Picture, Communicating and Influencing, and Working Together.

Qualifications
Relevant qualifications in ecology, conservation, environmental science, or related fields are desirable but not mandatory. A commitment to continual professional development and the ability to undergo required security and criminal record checks is essential.