Project Assistant (East)

Location: York Head Office
Department: East Region
Salary: £23,750 per annum (pro rata if part-time)
Hours: 21 hours per week
Contract Type: Fixed-Term

Yorkshire Wildlife Trust is one of the UK’s fastest growing nature conservation organisations and seeks to appoint a Project Assistant Part Time.

We are looking for a bright and energetic Project Assistant to join our Vale of York & Derwent Team to help deliver the YDCP Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS) Catchment Strategy, as well as supporting practical reserves work in autumn and winter.

This role will primarily focus on the treatment of INNS (mostly giant hogweed) with pesticides and liaising with landowners to further the treatment of INNS. Working alongside the Partnership’s project team, you will assist delivering the annual INNS control programme and support producing the annual INNS treatment report and updating the INNS Catchment Strategy. Our INNS programme is focused on the eradication of giant hogweed throughout the Derwent Catchment by 2030. As this is a phototoxic species, which we treat using chemicals, you must be prepared to adhere to strict Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and biosecurity protocols.

Many of the physical tasks are carried out during the summer months in full PPE, with a full knapsack sprayer, so a good level of mobility and fitness is essential. Treating INNS along watercourses requires the ability to navigate uneven ground while carrying loads of up to 12kg on your back. It’s strenuous but very rewarding as this work helps native species to thrive, while protecting the stability of riverbanks and other waterways.

Work will often be carried out from early morning to avoid the heat of the day, so excellent time management skills are required. As you will often be working in public and private areas and engaging with landowners, you’ll need to be able to diplomatically interact with people in a positive and proactive manner.

As part of the role, you will have the opportunity to assist the team on reserves and with the other projects delivering river restoration, natural flood management, and biodiversity projects and attain a good level of understanding of the catchment-based approach (CaBA).

How to apply

Please submit an up-to-date CV and supporting statement. When writing your supporting statement, please ensure you describe your relevant knowledge, skills and experience aligned to the Person Specification within the Job Description. Please be aware that if you only submit a CV, your application may not be considered.

Please DO NOT include any personal details (name, address etc) on your supporting statement.

Closing date: 26th January 2026 at 09.00am
Interview date: 9th February 2026

Please note that applications received after the closing deadline may not be considered. The Trust regrets that it is unable to give feedback on unsuccessful applications.

We are committed to creating a Movement that recognises and truly values individual differences and identities. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone is able to be themselves and to reach their full potential. We want our people to flourish, just like nature.

REF-225 959