Smooth Snake Recovery Officer

The Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust (ARC) seeks an ecologist to work on ARC’s exciting new project, “Essential research and translocation for smooth snake recovery.” This project will enhance the conservation status of the UK’s rarest reptile, the smooth snake (Coronella austriaca), and is funded by a substantial award from Natural England’s Species Recovery Programme (SRP) Grant Scheme.

This new project will build on ARC’s foundational work on smooth snakes by investigating the relationship between smooth snake status and key habitat characteristics, investigate how genomics can aid recovery planning, and undertake a conservation translocation. It will involve working with a range of partners, including regulators, landowners, volunteers and researchers. The post requires good organisational skills, with a significant amount of planning, reporting and budget management.

The post will be based at ARC’s head office in Bournemouth. The post-holder will be expected to either live in or be able to travel regularly to Dorset and the surrounding area for meetings and fieldwork. A modest amount of travel elsewhere in Britain will be required. Travel expenses will be paid, and IT equipment will be provided.

The main duties are as follows:

• Lead on the key delivery elements of the “Essential research and translocation for smooth snake recovery” Natural England SRP-funded project, including: liaison with researchers and landowners, monitoring, initiate a conservation translocation, communications to a wider audience and literature synthesis.
• Work closely with ARC senior managers and specialist staff to ensure the project is delivered to a high standard, and integrates with ARC’s existing programmes of work.
• Support and co-ordinate volunteers, and manage contractors.
• Consult and consider appropriate sources of evidence to guide conservation practices.

Note: Given risks of pathogen transfer associated with fieldwork, the position would not suit someone who currently keeps exotic reptiles or amphibians at home, unless they are willing to comply with strict biosecurity protocols.

How to apply: Click the find out more and apply button to read the full job description and person spec and download the application form. You will need to send a covering letter explaining your interest in the role and how you meet the person specification, plus a completed application form, to HR ([email protected]) by 12:00 on Friday, 9 October 2026.

Interviews will be held in person at our Bournemouth Head Office on October 19th, 21st and 23rd.

For an informal discussion about this role, please contact Eryn McDonald ([email protected]).