Senior Project Officer

Freshwater Habitats Trust; New Forest; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Freshwater Habitats Trust is looking for a skilled project leader to join the New Forest team, focusing on impactful freshwater conservation projects across the National Park. The ideal candidate will have experience managing projects, engaging with stakeholders, and a strong understanding of freshwater biodiversity.

The role offers a unique chance to develop and deliver habitat creation and restoration initiatives, contributing to meaningful environmental outcomes and partnerships in the New Forest area.

Qualifications

• Experience in managing conservation projects and budgets.
• Knowledge of freshwater biodiversity and habitat restoration techniques.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead on developing project work plans and managing delivery.
• Conduct catchment walkover surveys to identify opportunities.
• Manage contractors and ensure compliance with consents and licenses.

Skills

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Surveying

Biodiversity conservation

Job description

Freshwater Habitats Trust is the UK’s leading charity for all freshwaters. We are an evidence‑led conservation organisation working to protect freshwater wildlife through practical, innovative and scientifically robust conservation projects across the UK and Europe.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Freshwater Habitats Trust’s New Forest team, delivering practical, landscape‑scale freshwater conservation projects across the National Park.

The role will focus on identifying, developing and delivering habitat creation and restoration projects to improve freshwater biodiversity at a catchment scale. This will include undertaking catchment walkover surveys to identify issues and opportunities, and working closely with landowners, technical specialists and a wide range of stakeholders to design and implement effective interventions—including habitat creation, restoration and nutrient management.

The postholder will lead on developing project work plans, securing necessary consents and licences, and managing contractors through delivery. Alongside this, the role will involve full project and financial management responsibilities, including budget oversight, reporting against targets, and liaising with funders.

Strong stakeholder engagement is key, with the role also representing the Trust at meetings and contributing to partnerships across the New Forest. This is a varied role combining practical conservation delivery with project leadership, offering the chance to make a meaningful impact on freshwater environments.