Farming and Conservation Officer

Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust (YDRT) is dedicated to the conservation and restoration of rivers and their catchments within the YDRT catchment area. We work collaboratively with local communities and action groups, national parks, and various environmental organisations to deliver impactful projects that restore our rivers, enhance biodiversity, improve water quality, and increase resilience to climate change.

This role is a vital part of the Trust’s work, as engaging with farmers and land managers is essential to improving and protecting our rivers and enhancing their resilience to climate change.

We’re offering an exciting opportunity for a candidate with experience in agriculture and/or land management who is passionate about making a real difference to water quality and river habitats.

The post-holder will work to raise awareness and improve understanding of diffuse and point source agricultural pollution and its impact on water quality and the wider environment. Through the formation of new farming clusters and the provision of tailored advice and support, the role aims to promote voluntary, community-led improvements in farming practices that benefit the water environment.

While the initial contract for this role is for 18 months, there is potential for the position to be extended beyond this period. The initial period will be focused within the River Wharfe and Nidd Catchments. The extension would provide the successful candidate with the opportunity to utilise their skills to develop and implement solutions to tackle agricultural pollution across other catchments within YDRT’s area.

The role will involve hybrid working, mainly from home, when not on site, as well as hot-desking at the Trust’s office in Pateley Bridge.

The post holder will be flexible, with the occasional evening and weekend working. The post-holder will work well both alone and as part of a team of paid staff and volunteers.

Salary: £31,803-£35,555      
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Probationary period: Four months. During the probationary period, the contract may be terminated with one week’s notice.
Annual leave: 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
Term: 18 months initially with potential for extension     
Pension: Contributory pension. The Trust contributes 9% salary.
Location: The Trust has an office in Pateley Bridge. The successful candidate will have a hot desk available in the office but is not expected to work from the office every day.

More Details:

Key Responsibilities & Competency Details can be found on our website.

Applications must be received no later than 5pm on Tuesday 16th September 2025

Successful applicants will be invited to interview in person on the 25th of September, more information will be provided if shortlisted.