Volunteer and Engagement Officer

Hours: Full time 37.5 hours per week or part time 30 hours per week 
Contract: Permanent (hybrid working)
Area of work: Predominantly in the West of our area (may be required to assist across other parts of the South East).

Are you passionate about connecting people with nature and empowering communities to protect rivers? Do you have experience delivering engaging volunteering and citizen science programmes that inspire real environmental action? Join us and play a pivotal role in restoring rare chalk streams, and other river habitats.

About the Role

SERT’s ambition is to reach as many people as possible in the South East, to teach and show them the importance of rivers in the environment, and how everyone can play a part in restoring them. We also want to be more reflective of the diverse communities who live in the South East, and build partnerships within these communities to reach a broader audience.

This role will lead the development and delivery of volunteering and community outreach activities that connect people with their local rivers. Activities will include practical volunteering such as river clean-ups, planting days, and invasive species control, as well as citizen science, guided walks, and community workshops.

About you

For this role we are looking for someone who is:

• A self starter who is able to research, approach and secure funds for developing your programme of delivery.
• Enjoys and has a demonstrable experience writing, organising and managing a programme for volunteers and communities.
• Enjoys seeking out new opportunities and funding as well as keeping your existing volunteers engaged.
• A people person, who is able to plan, organise and multi task. You can think on your feet whilst being adaptable to varying situations, always remaining calm.
• Deeply passion and understanding of our natural environment and enjoy outdoor activities.

About us

Working at the South East Rivers Trust is rewarding, fulfilling and fast-paced. We are a fast growing Trust looking to expand what we are able to offer our communities, to understand their natural environment, including rare chalk streams, within the South East of England. We collaborate with energy and professionalism, guided by our values of delivering high-quality work, using expertise and science, building strong relationships, and bringing positivity and integrity to everything we do. If this sounds like the right environment for you - we’d love to hear from you.

Please see the full Volunteer and Engagement Officer job description on our website for more information.

The deadline for application is 11:59pm on Sunday 21st September 2025. We reserve the right to close the recruitment early.

Interviews will be potentially w.c. 29th September 2025.

If you would like to discuss the position please email [email protected] with your enquiry and we will arrange to call you back.

Please note: All applicants must have the right to work in the UK. We do not have a sponsorship licence for overseas applicants.

All applicants must have a full driving licence and access to a vehicle.