Location
Ashford (Kent) or Worthing, Sussex with regular car travel across Sussex and Kent. Hybrid working with an expectation to attend the local office for 20% of contractual hours.

Hours
Full Time with flexible working arrangements available.

Salary
£33,780 per annum plus £9,786 employer contribution towards the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme.

About the Role
Join Natural England and contribute to shaping a future where nature and people thrive. As a Higher Officer within the Sussex & Kent Area Team, you will support nature recovery by delivering technical advice and support to farmers and land managers. There are three roles available: two within the farm advice and land management team and one within the protected sites team. Placement depends on skills and experience.

The primary aim is to help deliver the Environment Improvement Plan commitment to ensure 50% of SSSI features are on track to achieve favourable condition by 2030. You will provide expert advice on habitat management and engage stakeholders, focusing on Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs).

Farm advice roles focus on delivering Countryside Stewardship schemes, supporting farmers and land managers to create and protect nature-rich habitats, contributing to Local Nature Recovery Strategies and Environmental Improvement Plan targets. Protected sites roles focus on SSSI Action of Track work, ensuring actions are on track to achieve favourable condition through management plans, condition assessments, and funding mechanisms.

You will collaborate closely with colleagues, land managers, and partner organisations to secure positive outcomes for protected sites and landscape-scale conservation across Sussex and Kent.

Experience
Knowledge and understanding of farming systems and protected sites legislation. Experience working with individuals and partners to deliver positive environmental outcomes. Experience delivering one-to-one advice and presenting to groups. Knowledge of government agricultural land management schemes, such as Countryside Stewardship, is desirable.

About you
Well-organised, methodical, and able to coordinate multiple partners towards common objectives. Strong habitat management skills in at least one habitat relevant to Sussex and Kent, with a broad knowledge of other habitats. Ability to listen, nurture trusting partnerships, and collaborate effectively. Demonstrates integrity, manages conflict objectively, and makes evidence-based decisions.

Qualifications
A degree in an environmental, geographical, scientific or related discipline, or equivalent skills and experience gained through work, volunteering or other activities (essential). A valid UK driving licence is essential due to regular travel requirements.