Urban Ecologist

Help shape nature-rich neighbourhoods through community-led action. Use your ecological expertise to inform and inspire the creation and development of community nature reserves that deliver impactful solutions for people and wildlife.

Brief description of role

Avon Wildlife Trust is seeking an experienced Ecologist to undertake site visits and produce high-quality reports in response to community priorities for nature. The role also includes carrying out desk-based research to develop a strong understanding of local environments and inform practical, evidence-based recommendations.

The successful candidate will bring a sound knowledge of wildlife legislation, urban nature-based solutions, and approaches to enhancing ecological connectivity across urban, suburban, and rural landscapes.

They will be confident in delivering training and practical guidance to communities and organisations, supporting them to create and sustain nature-rich neighbourhoods across the region. An effective and engaging communicator, they will use their expertise to inspire a diverse range of audiences about native wildlife and encourage meaningful action for nature.

Part time, 22.5 or 30 hours per week, usually three or four days a week

Fixed term – end March 2027

Who are we?

Avon Wildlife Trust is a charity working to protect and restore wildlife in Bristol, Bath and the West of England (former county of Avon). We want to enable nature to recover on a grand scale, with more abundant wildlife in our cities and countryside. We work with schools and communities, landowners and volunteers, people of all ages and backgrounds – to develop wildlife-rich places and wildlife-rich lives. We create, connect and care for places rich in wildlife, champion the value of nature, and inspire people and communities to care for wildlife. The Trust is supported by more than 17,000 members, 650 volunteers, manages over 30 nature reserves and is one of 46 Wildlife Trusts in the UK.

Avon Wildlife Trust values diversity. We are committed to creating a movement that recognises and truly values individual differences and identities. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures. We also have robust child safeguarding policies, and this role requires two work references and an enhanced DBS check.

Benefits:

• Pension with 5% employer contribution
• Life assurance
• Hybrid working
• Wellbeing support including Employee Assistance Programme
• Employee Discounts and Cycle Scheme
• Wildlife Trusts Diversity networks
• Paid volunteering day
• Training and development
• One free AWT course day per year
• Minimum 33 days of holiday (25 annual leave + bank holidays) pro rata
• The opportunity to make a real and positive difference to nature