Estate Biodiversity Officer

at  Chester Zoo

OUR REQUIREMENTS ESTATE BIODIVERSITY OFFICER

• A working knowledge of conservation and the key issues threatening the natural world today, particularly UK biodiversity. This is likely to be demonstrated by a relevant degree and/or experience of working within a conservation organisation or similar environment in the UK.
• Practical experience and knowledge of management for a range of UK habitats.
• UK species knowledge, identification and surveying skills.
• Experience of managing contractors and/or volunteers.
• Excellent interpersonal skills that enable effective working relationships with a range of stakeholders.
• Experience and knowledge of health and safety practices relevant to UK conservation activities.
• Microsoft Office and report writing skills.
• Excellent time management and prioritisation skills.
• Full driving license

This is a key role working as part of our professional team taking responsibility for the promotion of UK native species and habitats across the zoo Estate. In addition to the main visitor attraction, the Chester Zoo estate encompasses over 200ha of farmland, wet meadow, reedbed, species rich grassland, woodland, and an extensive hedgerow and pond network. The Estate Biodiversity Officer will assist in the development and delivery of the Biodiversity Management Plan, with an ambition to have 30% of the estate managed to a high standard for UK biodiversity by 2030.

As the Estate Biodiversity Officer, you will:

• Plan, deliver and report on habitat management works across the 80ha of biodiversity areas on the zoo estate.
• Coordinate external contractors and volunteers delivering habitat management and ecological work.
• Coordinate ecological monitoring across a range of taxa and habitats on the estate, including data management and reporting.
• Engage and communicate with relevant internal and external stakeholders to achieve maximum benefits for biodiversity.
• Assist the Estate Biodiversity Manager in the development and delivery of estate plans, projects, and reporting.
• Provide supervision, support and mentorship to university work placements.