Volunteer Trainee Project Assistant

Job Title: Volunteer Trainee Project Assistant

Main Job Purpose:

An opportunity to gain work experience and training in practical and applied conservation work to support the Restoring Bartonsham Meadows’ Project a national Lottery Heritage Funded project run by Herefordshire Wildlife Trust.

Training will be provided in many aspects of reserve management and community engagement and can include the gaining of qualifications in relevant skills according to the candidate’s background. 

For maximum benefit to both the trainee and Herefordshire Wildlife Trust, a consistent commitment to the programme is expected, and the trainee is required to adhere to the terms in the Trust’s volunteer policy as applicable. 

PLEASE NOTE: We do not accept CVs. To be considered, please apply via this link: https://hr.breathehr.com/v/volunteer-trainee-project-assistant-38185

Term: 12 months Placement 3 days a week Ideally Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday

This is not a salaried role however there is a budget of £3000 for training and expenses, of which at least half will be available for training and is based on the relevant applicants needs for externally accredited training. Reasonable expenses are paid which include travel expenses to work.

Reports to: Bartonsham Project Manager/ Community Officer

Location: Queenswood Country Park, HR6 0PY and Bartonsham Meadows, Hereford HR1 2RB

Management Responsibility: None

Liaison with: The Bartonsham Project team, Community Groups, Volunteers and the public

Key Responsibilities:

The Volunteer Trainee Project Assistant will support the Project Team with their work, which through the year will include assisting, planning and running volunteer surveys and work parties at Barton sham Meadows.

There will be opportunities to undertake species surveys, GIS mapping, supporting with school visits, youth groups and wider community groups and events.  

• To undertake duties and training as outlined in the trainee programme (to be agreed with the postholder) and to record training and experience gained.  
• To participate in practical activities required to manage the Restoring Bartonsham Meadows Project. 
• To help maintain vehicles, machinery, equipment and tools in a safe and effective condition and to ensure that they are used in an appropriate manner.  
• To help promote the Trust and its work by supporting the provision of guided walks, presentations, the preparation of interpretative materials, and through participation in events and activities.  
• To deal with enquiries from the public, members and other interested parties in a timely, polite and effective manner and to be a regular presence at Bartonsham Meadows. 
• To carry out any other duties as required by the Project Staff. 

Other duties

• Undertake Health and Safety duties commensurate with the post and as detailed in the Trust's Health and Safety policy; 
• Comply with all other organisational policies and relevant legislation e.g. Equal Opportunities – it being the responsibility of the post holder to make themselves aware of such items 
• Take advantage of formal and informal opportunities for personal and professional development, participate in appropriate training activities in consultation with your line manager 
• Act as an ambassador for Herefordshire Wildlife Trust, constructing and maintaining positive relationships with volunteers, visitors and other organisations 
• Actively encourage those who you with and whom you come into professional contact to become members of HWT (all staff are regarded as membership recruiters) 
• Undertake any other work that might be deemed necessary by HWT commensurate with the level of responsibility of this post. Work with the broader HWT team on any other activities that match your skills and abilities as agreed with your line-manager 

Person specification

Qualifications

No Formal Qualification are required, experience and a commitment to a career in nature conservation is essential

Essential Knowledge and Experience

• A demonstrable commitment to a career in nature conservation is essential. 
• Basic knowledge of habitat management principles
• Experience of working with people from a wide variety of backgrounds (in a paid or voluntary capacity) 

Desirable

• Some experience of practical conservation (all necessary training will be given). 

Skills Essential

• Good written and oral communication skills
• Literate with Microsoft office, web and email
• Excellent organisational and time management skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills

Other Essential

• A full UK-valid driving licence but the role is possible without this.  
• A Clean DBS check

Personal Attributes

• Demonstrable interest in UK wildlife and nature conservation. 
• Willingness to learn and take responsibility for own professional development. 
• Willingness to work outdoors in all weathers. 
• A reasonable level of fitness 
• A positive “can do” attitude  
• A desire to make a difference 
• Willingness to share knowledge of wildlife with others, both informally and formally 
• A commitment to equal opportunities.

Job Types: Part-time, Volunteer

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Employee discount
• Free parking
• On-site parking

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 21/11/2024