Researcher, Wetland BioScience

About the role

Are you an early career scientist looking to gain experience working in a range of wetland habitats within a supportive and internationally recognised team of wetland experts?

WWT's Wetland Evidence department are looking to recruit a seasonal fieldworker to support our expanding programme of ecological monitoring. Sitting in the Wetland BioScience team the successful candidate will have the opportunity to develop field skills covering a range of taxa including pollinating insects, saltmarsh vegetation, aerial insectivores (bats and birds) and aquatic invertebrates. The role will also involve desk based data collation and management (including spatial data) as well as the opportunity to get involved in analysis and reporting tasks.

You will have the opportunity to work across a range of WWT's UK projects, with a particular focus on our Saltmarsh programme in which we are focused on gathering evidence to demonstrate the biodiversity superpowers of these important wetland habitats.

The role will centre on field-based survey work across a range of sites, primarily in the South West but also nationally so a willingness to travel and a driving licence are therefore essential.

This is a full-time position, working 37.5 hours per week, for a fixed period until 31st December 2026. During the fieldwork season, this position will require working on some weekends and bank holidays and working outside of normal hours. Considerable flexibility will be required during the fieldwork season. All overtime will be reimbursed through TOIL (time off in lieu).

About you

The successful candidate will:

• have a background in ecology and an interest in wetland species and habitats
• have a desire to develop multi-taxa field skills and desk based data management experience
• be proactive and able to engage with multiple projects and tasks
• have the ability to bring a creative approach to problem solving, finding practical solutions
• be able to conduct fieldwork independently, managing own time efficiently whilst following health & safety regulations
• be willing to travel (within the UK) and have a driving licence
• have good interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate with a wide range of audiences and members of public and maintain effective relationships with colleagues and partners.

About us

We’re WWT, and we’re on a mission to restore the super-powered ecosystems we call wetlands. There’s never been a more important moment for our work, and we’ve got some phenomenal people on the case.

Whether they’re taking a new visitor under their wing, or conducting ground-breaking research further afield, our team are second to none. And there’s nothing we love more than watching them soar.

Whatever you do here, you’ll be helping to restore wetlands and unlock their power. So, the only question left is, what role will you play?

Why you’ll love working at WWT

• Wake up every day knowing your work is helping to restore wetlands, and our world
• Be surrounded and inspired by our team of passionate, dedicated people
• 33 days annual leave (which goes up to 38 days after 5 years of service) – this includes bank holidays and you have flexibility to take those days whenever you want
• Free entry to all our wetland centres, including your family
• Free car parking and secure bike storage areas
• Colleague discount on shopping and memberships
• Cycle to work scheme
• Contributory pension scheme
• Life Assurance of three times your salary, for peace of mind for your loved ones
• Independent personal, workplace and financial advice from our Employee Assistance Programme

WWT is an equal opportunities employer and all applications will be considered solely on merit.

Registered Charity Number England & Wales, no 1030884 and Scotland, no SC039410