Peatland Conservation Officers

Salary: £33,458 per annum based on a 35-hour working week 

Contract: Fixed term for 3.75 years

The post supports the delivery of peatland restoration across Cumbria, working on both lowland raised bogs and remote upland peatlands accessible only on foot. You will play a key role in planning, coordinating, and implementing restoration activities that improve the condition and resilience of these vital habitats.

Key Responsibilities

• Project planning and contract management — Leading on the organisation, coordination, and oversight of peatland restoration works and contractor activity.
• Site surveys and GIS mapping — Carrying out field surveys and producing accurate GIS maps to support project planning and reporting.
• Volunteer and trainee supervision — Managing volunteer work parties, ensuring safe and effective delivery of practical tasks, and supporting apprentices and placement students.
• Hydrological monitoring — Installing and maintaining monitoring equipment to collect baseline water‑level and peatland condition data.
• Vegetation monitoring — Completing vegetation quadrats to establish ecological baselines for restoration sites.
• Partnership working — Collaborating with members of the Cumbria Peat Partnership, attending meetings, and contributing to shared project delivery.

About the Partnership

Cumbria Wildlife Trust is a key member of the Cumbria Peat Partnership (CPP)—a collaborative network of organisations working to restore and protect peatland habitats across the county. As a Peatland Conservation Officer, you will contribute to joint initiatives, share expertise, and help deliver high‑quality restoration outcomes for landowners and stakeholders.

We are looking for candidates who are self‑motivated, organised, and able to work independently, including on remote upland sites; have a solid understanding of habitat restoration, ideally with experience specific to peatlands. Previous experience in practical fieldwork and working with contractors and volunteers would also be desirable. If you have a passion for peatlands and experience delivering conservation projects, then we would love to hear from you.

Completed application forms should be returned with a separate cover letter as an attachment outlining the candidate's suitability for the post and emailed to admin@cumbriawildlifetrust.org.uk.

Postal applications can be sent to Claire Shepherd, HR Manager, Cumbria Wildlife Trust, Plumgarths, Crook Road, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 8LX

Please note: CV's will not be considered.

The closing date for applications is 9 am on Monday 29 June 2026

Interviews will be held on Monday 13 July 2026 at our Headquarters in Kendal.

Expected start date: September 2026

Only short listed candidates will be contacted. If you have not heard anything within 14 days of the closing date, please assume your application has not been successful.

Cumbria Wildlife Trust is devoted to the conservation of the wildlife and wild places of Cumbria.