Location
Great Wigborough, Colchester, Essex

Hours
Full Time - Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:00pm

Salary
£34,130 per annum

About the Role
We are seeking an ambitious, practical, and passionate individual to join Essex Wildlife Trust’s growing Marine & Coastal Recovery Team as the Saltmarsh Recovery Research Manager. In this role, you will lead the development and delivery of the Trust’s extensive saltmarsh recovery programme along Essex’s internationally important coast. You will deliver smaller-scale, experimental active saltmarsh restoration projects, collaborate closely with landowners to develop new initiatives, and act as a champion and advocate for saltmarsh habitats.

Funded through the prestigious seascape-scale Transforming the Thames coastal restoration partnership project, this fixed-term 36-month contract starting January 2026 offers a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to on-the-ground conservation impact and build a long-term legacy of scientific evidence for both Transforming the Thames and future projects. The role requires a valid full UK driving licence and access to your own vehicle.

Experience
Proven experience in saltmarsh or coastal habitat restoration, ecological research, or a related environmental field is essential. Experience working collaboratively with landowners and stakeholders to develop and deliver conservation projects is highly desirable.

About you
You are a motivated and practical individual with a passion for marine and coastal conservation. You have excellent communication and project management skills, and you are confident in advocating for saltmarsh habitats. You are able to work independently and as part of a team, with a strong commitment to delivering high-quality conservation outcomes.

Qualifications
A relevant degree or equivalent qualification in ecology, environmental science, marine biology, or a related discipline is required. A valid full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle are essential for this role.