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- Tasks: Lead and support exciting conservation projects while developing your skills in ecology and project management.
- Company: Join the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, a leading wildlife conservation charity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, healthcare plan, and free entry to zoos for you and your friends.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in wildlife conservation and connect with nature every day.
- Qualifications: Degree-level education in relevant subjects and experience in ecology or zoology.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for career progression and personal development.
The predicted salary is between 24896 - 25718 £ per year.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) is a wildlife conservation charity with a bold vision: a world where nature is protected, valued and loved. Edinburgh Zoo and Highland Wildlife Park are our gateways to the natural world through which people can experience nature.
How You’ll Contribute To Our Mission
Implement activities of the conservation department under direction of the Conservation Project Manager (Field). Deliver targeted conservation project work in support of conservation department activities while developing understanding of conservation science and conservation project management skills. All in support of RZSS’s vision and mission.
Some Of The Things You’ll Do
- Contribute to and, at times, lead on aspects of a range of conservation projects by providing assistance with invertebrate conservation breeding programmes, writing reports, contributing to scientific publications, onsite biodiversity surveying, preparing GIS site maps, monitoring reintroduced populations of native invertebrate species in the wild.
- Help to ensure animal welfare, husbandry and management within invertebrate conservation breeding programmes is of the highest standard, considering relevant legislation and best practice animal management.
- Plan and execute time sensitive biodiversity actions (e.g., native species planting).
- Present aspects of conservation project work to visitors to off show areas at Highland Wildlife Park (e.g., project partners, patrons etc).
- Communicate and collaborate with external project partners, maintaining good relationships and attending project stakeholder meetings where required.
- Participate in planning conservation work delivery, including logistics and methodological development.
What We’re Looking For
- Educated to degree-level in relevant subject or equivalent qualification.
- Knowledge of native invertebrate species and their ecological and/or husbandry requirements.
- Full UK Driving Licence.
- Competent in the use of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
- Experience in ecology, zoology or environment related discipline.
- Experience of report/scientific report writing.
What You’ll Get In Return
- Starting pro-rated salary of £24,896 or £25,518 (offer based on experience) with future salary progression up to £27,749 per annum.
- 37.5hr working week (including weekend working).
- 34 days annual leave (pro rata).
- Discount in both retail/catering.
- Access to a healthcare plan.
- Access to Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), that provide 24-hour counselling and support, including health, legal, finance, wellbeing and family advice.
- Employer contributory pension scheme.
- You will receive a staff membership which will give you (and family/friends) free (and discounted) entry to both the Highland Wildlife Park and Edinburgh Zoo as well as a number of other Zoos across the UK.
If this role excites you and aligns with your career aspirations, click APPLY now. Interview date 6 April 2026.
Conservation Project Officer employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Contact Detail:
British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Conservation Project Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the RZSS and their mission inside out! Research their conservation projects and values so you can speak passionately about how you fit into their vision during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn, attend conservation events, or join relevant groups. Building relationships can give you insider info and boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to conservation and project management. Think of examples from your experience that showcase your skills and passion for wildlife conservation.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the RZSS team!
We think you need these skills to ace Conservation Project Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Conservation Project Officer role. Highlight relevant experience, especially in ecology or zoology, and don’t forget to mention any specific projects you've worked on that relate to invertebrate conservation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for wildlife conservation and how your skills align with RZSS’s mission. Be sure to mention why you’re excited about this specific role and what you can bring to the team.
Showcase Your Writing Skills: Since report writing is key for this position, include examples of your written work if possible. Whether it’s a scientific report or a project summary, demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively will set you apart.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our organisation there.
How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
✨Know Your Conservation Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of native invertebrate species and their ecological needs. Being able to discuss specific examples from your studies or experiences will show that you're genuinely passionate about conservation.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience with report writing and any relevant projects you've worked on. Bring along examples if possible, as this will help demonstrate your competence in scientific communication and project management.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle real-life scenarios in conservation work. Think about time-sensitive biodiversity actions or how you would ensure animal welfare in breeding programmes, and be ready to share your thought process.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some thoughtful questions about RZSS’s conservation projects or their future goals. This shows your interest in the organisation and helps you determine if it’s the right fit for you.