Project Officer

Project Officer
Home-based in the Inner Hebrides with regular field work on Skye

The Organisation

Bats are remarkable and essential to our environment. The Bat Conservation Trust (BCT) is the foremost non-governmental organisation dedicated to bat conservation and habitat protection. Our mission is to work collaboratively and with a diversity of people to achieve resilient populations of bats and improve their habitats in an ever-changing world.

BCT actively works on a range of initiatives to create a better world for bats. We're passionate about preserving these unique creatures and are committed to welcoming like-minded individuals who share our dedication.

Species on the Edge (SotE) brings together eight environmental organisations to deliver an ambitious, consolidated programme of work across Scotland. Working together, we aim to empower island and coastal communities to connect with one another, their local wild places and the special wildlife within.

We are now looking for a Project Officer to join us on a part-time basis, working 30 hours per week, for a fixed-term contract until March 2027.

Although the post is based with the BCT, it is a multi-taxa role which reflects the ways of working of the whole SotE programme, which is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and a range of other funders.

The Benefits

• Salary of £29,886 per annum pro rata
• 25 days' annual leave, plus Bank Holidays, increasing with service pro rata
• Flexible working arrangements, including a hybrid working policy
• Defined contributory pension scheme with 4% employer contribution
• Employee Assistance Programme offering 24/7 support and counselling
• Time off for volunteering opportunities
• Learning and development opportunities, including funding for personal growth
• Occupational sick pay
• Eye Care Vouchers
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Travel season ticket loans
• Interest free IT finance loans
• Free parking at our Battersea office (subject to availability)

This is an incredible opportunity for an ecology or conservation professional with experience of bat survey work and project management expertise to join our purpose-driven organisation.

You’ll have the chance to make a tangible impact on biodiversity across Scotland’s stunning Inner Hebrides, working in the field to protect precious bat populations.

What’s more, as part of a passionate network of conservation professionals, you’ll develop your skills, enjoy part-time hours, and play a vital role in ensuring that these fascinating creatures continue to thrive for generations to come.

The Role

As a Project Officer, you will support the delivery of our Protecting Scotland’s Island Wonders project, one of the nine species projects which make up Species on the Edge.

The majority of the project involves vital bat survey and monitoring work, engaging local communities, and collaborating with farmers, landowners, and conservation partners to create lasting impact across Skye, the Inner Hebrides, and beyond.

Working closely with partners, you’ll oversee fieldwork, data collection, and reporting to ensure conservation goals are met. You’ll organise volunteer training, lead educational activities, and share your knowledge of bat ecology to inspire others to protect these fascinating species.

Additionally, you will:

• Support habitat connectivity and identify roosting sites
• Provide specialist bat input and support for Islay, Mull, Solway, Orkney, and the Outer Hebrides
• Train and co-ordinate volunteers and community groups in survey methods
• Lead outreach activities such as walks and educational sessions
• Produce progress reports, contribute to budget reviews, and support legacy planning

About You

To be considered as a Project Officer, you will need:

• Experience of project management
• Experience of bat survey work using bat detectors
• Data management experience
• Experience of reporting to funders
• An understanding of species and habitat conservation, including practical habitat management
• A good understanding of bat, bird, plant and invertebrate ecology and habitat management
• An understanding of agriculture and agri-environment schemes
• A minimum of five National 5s or equivalent
• A full, valid driving licence or other means of transport suitable for travel to areas not served by public transport

The role may involve working with children and vulnerable adults, therefore, a Protecting Vulnerable Groups Scheme (PVG) check will be carried out for the successful candidate, and any offer of employment will be subject to a satisfactory PVG check.

Deadline for Applications: 9am on Tuesday 28th October 2025

Interviews (held via Zoom): Monday 17th November 2025

Other organisations may call this role Bat Conservation Officer, Conservation Officer, Environmental Project Officer, Ecology Project Officer, Woodland Conservation Officer, or Wildlife Conservation Officer.

Webrecruit and Bat Conservation Trust are equal opportunities employers, value diversity and are strongly committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and all applicants for employment. Equal opportunities are the only acceptable way to conduct business and we believe that the more inclusive our environments are, the better our work will be.

So, if you’re ready to take on a rewarding role as a Project Officer, please apply via the button shown. This vacancy is being advertised by Webrecruit. The services advertised by Webrecruit are those of an Employment Agency.