Project Officer Darlington, North East England, England
Job description
The Tees Rivers Trust operates throughout the whole of the Tees Catchment with projects ranging
from remediating historic metal mine spoil in Upper Teesdale to a programme of marine habitat
improvements in the Tees Estuary. We are a pro-active and practical organisation and are
dedicated to improving our river through practical work, education and collaboration.
We are searching for a new member to join our expanding team. You will be practical,
intelligent, knowledgeable, confident and experienced in conservation project delivery and
happy to work within a team as well as on your own. Comfortable to take the initiative and
think creatively, you will enjoy physically demanding tasks working in all terrains in all
weather, often working longer hours in the day to get the job finished. Our success depends
substantially on the help of our corporate and community volunteer network and so an
appreciation of volunteering will be helpful. Some experience of reporting to funders and
successfully applying for funding would also be beneficial, but not a pre-requisite.
In return we can offer you the chance to grow your skills and knowledge. We are committed to
the continued professional development of our team and encourage people to undertake training
and affiliation to professional bodies.
The role is based from our offices in Darlington and Hartlepool, but we are happy to accommodate a blend of home working and office time for those moments when you will not be in the field. We operate a flexible working pattern and will work around needs around childcare where we can.
As you will see from the list below, this job requires a broad range of skills, but most
importantly we need someone who has the right attitude and is passionate about conserving and
improving the water environment. We therefore welcome applications from anyone who thinks they
have what it takes even if you don’t have all of the skills listed – we are happy to help you
achieve your potential and fill the gaps in your skill set. We welcome applications from
university graduates but value relevant experience very highly.
To apply, please send a CV and covering letter of no longer than 2 sides A4
explaining why you would like the job and what you feel you could bring to the Trust to
[email protected] . If you would
like to discuss the role in more detail, please email to arrange a time for a call.
Main Duties & Responsibilities
Carry out practical river restoration work throughout the river Tees catchment
Carry out treatments for Invasive Non-Native Species
Riparian and habitat improvement projects such as tree planting and thinning
In-stream river restoration (e.g., willow spiling, installing woody debris into water)
Carry out fish surveys using electro fishing equipment
Support and lead engagement with local communities and stakeholders as part of project
delivery and promote the project in the local community via social media channels, websites and
regular blog posts.
Support and lead (under supervision) the organisation of outdoor public volunteer events
and support the co-ordination of volunteers.
To attend regular internal and external meetings as required.
To work in a flexible manner and to undertake any other duties and responsibilities as may
be assigned from time to time, which are commensurate with the grade of the job.
To carry out all of the above duties with full regard to the Trust’s Equal Opportunities,
Non-Discrimination, Safeguarding, Environmental, Health and Safety policies.
Experience & Knowledge
The following is a guide. If you have other skills and experience not listed that you
think will help you fulfil this role – now is your time to tell us about them!
Self-motivated and enthusiastic personality and able to learn quickly and use own
initiative
Knowledge of the Tees Catchment
Project management
Communication skills including public presentation, social media posts and
blogging/vlogging
Knowledge of farming and farmer engagement
GIS capability
Previous experience of practical work in the countryside and a general understanding of
nature conservation, river restoration and countryside related issues
Ability to work in a team or alone to undertake fieldwork, much of which will be physically
demanding.
A good working understanding of health and safety and risk mitigation
Have relevant experience of working with volunteers, partner organisations and communities
in implementing conservation projects
Willing and able to work occasional weekends and evenings where necessary.
Examples of desirable qualifications. No degree? No problem! PHd? No problem!
Chainsaw Maintenance, Cross Cutting, and Felling and Processing Trees up to 380mm
(CS30&31)
A full clean UK driving licence is essential
Felling and processing trees over 380mm (CS32)
B+E Driving license (Trailer)
PA1&PA6AW award in the safe use of pesticides
Certificate of Competence in Brushcutting Operations
Emergency First Aid at Work or other First Aid certificates
BORDA ATV (Quad bike) training
FACTS
Relevant academic qualification / practical diploma
Electrofishing experience
