Trust Manager / Senior Biologist

Lochaber Fisheries and Conservation Trust; Fort William, Torlundy; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated fish biologist to lead their team in Fort William. This exciting role involves managing daily operations, overseeing fieldwork, and designing projects to ensure the sustainability of local fisheries. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in biological sciences, excellent organizational skills, and a passion for outdoor work. With a competitive salary and benefits, including a pension contribution and generous leave, this position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on conservation efforts while enjoying the stunning landscapes of Scotland.

Benefits

Employer Pension Contribution

20 Days Paid Leave

Company Vehicle

Matched Funding for Pension

Qualifications

• At least two years’ work experience in relevant skills.
• Experience in line management and project delivery.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations of the Trust and deliver fieldwork programmes.
• Design projects and apply for funding to support future initiatives.

Skills

Biological Degree

Knowledge of Freshwater and Marine Ecosystems

Electrofishing Experience

Report Writing Skills

Project Management Skills

People Skills

Microsoft Office Competency

UK Driving License

Education

Degree in Relevant Biological Subject

Tools

GIS

Job description

Salary:£30-35,000
Contract: Permanent, full-time
Location: Torlundy, Fort William
Reporting to: Appointed Directors
Supervisory role: Assistant Biologist
Working hours: LFCT operates 37.5 hours working week; normally 9-5. Some evening and weekend work will be required.

Description of the role

We are seeking an experienced fish biologist to lead our team.The successful candidate will manage the day-to-day running of the Trust, deliver an extensive fieldwork programme, design projects, and make funding applications to support future projects. They will line manage the assistant biologist.

Skills and background

Essential

• Degree in relevant biological subject. At least two years’ work experience in relevant skills
• Knowledge of freshwater and marine ecosystems, or fisheries management
• Background in electrofishing. Enthusiasm to learn other survey techniques
• Excellent report writing and data management skills
• Proven organisation skills and project management skills, with ability to deliver a range of projects on time and to budget
• Good people skills and a “can do” attitude
• Competency in Microsoft Office packages
• Current UK driving license

Desirable

• Extensive experience of fisheries fieldwork
• Knowledge of the pressures facing fish and fisheries on the west coast of Scotland
• Electrofishing team leader qualification. Experience of coastal seine or fyke netting
• Working knowledge of GIS
• Sourcing funding for a wide range of projects
• Experience in line management
• Development of website and social media content
• Level 2 RYA powerboat certificate

The role involves significant amounts of time working outdoors in all weather conditions and often in remote locations. The work is often physically demanding and requires experience working in and around water, and awareness of related health and safety challenges. Some weekend and evening work will be required.

Salary and Benefits

The starting salary will be £30-35,000 based on experience. Reviewed annually. An employer’s pension contribution of up to 5% matched funding will be made. This role will be subject to an initial 6-month probationary period. You will be entitled to a holiday allowance of 20 days paid leave and nine statutory days. A company vehicle is made available for operational day-to-day usage.

Applying

Please send a description of how your skills and competencies make you a suitable candidate for the role (extending to no more than two pages) along with your c.v. to [e-mail]

The closing date for applications is 5pm, Friday May 23rd, 2025. For more information or an informal conversation, please contact Lucy Smith on 07796445651