River Chelmer Projects Manager

Term: 24-month initial term (with potential to extend subject to funding). Flexible start date.
Salary: £34,130 p.a
Pension: NEST pension scheme
Hours: Full time (37.5 hours per week). This role can be offered part time for the right candidate.
Holidays: 25 days plus statutory holidays
Place of work: Hybrid office (Stowmarket) and home working with regular travel throughout the Chelmer Catchment.

The Essex and Suffolk Rivers Trust are looking for a River Chelmer Projects Manager to lead the delivery of innovative Natural Flood Management projects across the River Chelmer and its tributaries. We are particularly interested in candidates with backgrounds in fluvial geomorphology, river restoration, environmental or water engineering, ideally supported by project management experience or chartered status (achieved or in progress). This is an exciting opportunity to develop and deliver projects that bring multiple benefits, from enhancing biodiversity and habitats to reducing flood risk and strengthening connections with wider environmental initiatives.

Working closely with landowners, partners and local communities, you will create and implement nature-based solutions within the Chelmer catchment. You will oversee all stages of project development, from initial concept and feasibility studies through to securing permissions and delivering practical works on the ground.

The role will involve building strong partnerships, particularly with the Environment Agency and local stakeholders, to ensure projects are complementary and achieve maximum impact. You will also engage with residents and volunteers, helping to inspire and involve local communities in river projects.

A key aspect of the role will be identifying and securing funding, maintaining a pipeline of projects at different stages, and managing project budgets effectively. You will also showcase completed projects through events and case studies, sharing successes and creating opportunities for future collaboration.

This is a rewarding role for someone who is passionate about rivers, habitats and people, with the chance to make a lasting difference to the River Chelmer catchment and beyond.

Initial telephone interviews are likely to be held in the w/c 6th October 2025. Successful candidates will then be offered an in person interview the w/c 13th October 2025, location to be confirmed.

If you have any questions about River Chelmer Projects Manager role, please contact [email protected].

Closing Date: 11PM Sunday 5th October