Countryside/ Conservation Officer
What is the work like?
As a countryside/conservation officer, you would be involved in the management, protection and improvement of the local environment. You would encourage people to visit the countryside and promote understanding of the need to protect the natural environment and plant and wildlife habitats.
Your work would be varied, but would typically include:
- advising landowners on how to manage their land to protect the countryside and wildlife
- conducting surveys, carrying out research, analysing data and writing reports
- dealing with complaints about issues such as overgrown rights of way
- organising the upkeep of country parks and woodlands
- trying to prevent damage to the countryside by making sure footpaths are clearly marked, and litter bins and car parks are provided
- advising on planning applications – for example assessing the effects on the countryside of a new road or housing development
- giving talks to local groups
- producing resources like leaflets and information boards to show the public how to look after the countryside
- advising on, organising or supporting local environmental activities and projects.
You would also deal with paperwork, keep detailed records, prepare applications for funding, and assess funding applications from other organisations.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
Many countryside/conservation officers have relevant degrees, BTEC HNDs or foundation degrees, so you may have an advantage to have this type of qualification. Relevant degree subjects include countryside/environmental management, environmental sciences, biology, ecology and geography.
To search for colleges and universities offering HNDs, foundation degrees and degrees see Universities and Colleges Admissions Service.
Employers will expect you to have practical experience. You could get this by volunteering with organisations such as the National Trust, the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers and Groundwork. You should contact them for information about local opportunities. Some of these organisations offer training for their volunteers.
Another option could be to start in a lower-level practical job and work your way up. For example, see the profile for Countryside Ranger.
What further training and development can I do?
You can add to your skills and knowledge by taking courses like those offered by the Field Studies Council and the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers.
You could also work towards NVQ levels 2 and 3 in Environmental Conservation.
Your employer may support you in continuous professional development (CPD), such as studying for a postgraduate qualification, which you may need for some senior jobs.
Joining professional bodies, such as the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM), will give you professional recognition, and access to CPD and networking opportunities.
Where can I go for more information?
Stoneleigh Park
Nr Coventry
Warwickshire
CV8 2LG
Tel: 0845 707 8007
Winchester
Hampshire
SO23 9EH
Tel: 01962 868626
Preston
Shrewsbury
Shropshire
SY4 1HW
Tel: 0845 345 4071
Peterborough
PE1 1UA
Tel: 01733 455000
Mallard Way
Potteric Carr
Doncaster
DNL 8DB
Tel: 01302 388888
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries can be around £18,000 a year.
- Experienced officers can earn up to, and over, £30,000.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would usually work around 37 hours a week. This would often include making early starts or attending evening meetings, and perhaps working some weekends and public holidays. Temporary and seasonal work is often available.
Although you would be office-based, you may spend a lot of time visiting sites, which would involve being outside in all weathers.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- enthusiasm for the countryside and conservation issues
- confidence and assertiveness
- the ability to explain technical and scientific issues to a variety of audiences
- effective communication and 'people' skills
- tact and diplomacy
- good IT skills.
What opportunities are there?
You would often be employed by local authorities, but could also find jobs with government agencies such as English Nature, charitable trusts such as the National Trust and the Woodland Trust, and environmental consultancies.
Competition for jobs is strong, so the more practical experience you can gain the better.
With experience and further qualifications you may be able to progress to become a senior officer or countryside manager.
You may find the following links useful for job vacancies and general reading (links open in new window):
EnvironmentalJobs.co.uk (job search page)
New Scientist
Countryside Jobs Link
LG Jobs
countryside-jobs.com
We do not accept responsibility for the content of external sites.
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