At a Glance
- Tasks: Promote and implement natural flood management solutions with local communities and stakeholders.
- Company: Join Dartmoor National Park Authority, dedicated to enhancing nature and community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, flexitime, and discounts at visitor centres.
- Other info: Fixed-term contracts until 2029, with potential extension to 2033.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Dartmoor's environment while working in a beautiful location.
- Qualifications: Experience in natural flood management and strong communication skills are essential.
Dartmoor National Park Authority works in partnership with local and national stakeholders to conserve and enhance Dartmoor as a vibrant, living, working landscape and community teeming with natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage. Bold solutions and urgent action are needed to address the climate and nature crises. In response, DNPA have launched an ambitious new nature enhancement strategy to restore natural processes at a catchment scale. The health of Dartmoor’s rivers, peatlands and wetlands is core to this.
The Dartmoor Headwaters Programme will enhance rivers, peatlands and wetlands for environmental and societal benefits. This is the next phase of an ambitious project funded by the Environment Agency (EA) to reduce flooding and increase biodiversity by working with natural processes in priority headwaters. We, at Dartmoor National Park Authority and the Environment Agency, are looking for officers to join the growing team to build on previous project successes and deliver a wide range of natural flood management (NFM) measures as part of the Dartmoor Headwaters team. There are 4 full-time positions available. These are fixed-term contracts until October 2029; subject to project funding, we anticipate the opportunity to extend until 2033.
The Dartmoor Headwaters Officers will promote and advise on NFM, working with farmers, landowners and the local communities to implement and monitor measures to help reduce the risk of flooding to properties and other infrastructure. This work will also deliver additional benefits for the natural environment, carbon storage and biodiversity. The post holder will work with the team to produce specifications and tender documents, recruit and manage contractors in line with agreed plans. They will work closely with partners, promote and advocate the project to a range of audiences and communicate the benefits and effects of the restoration programme.
The Benefits
- Salary of £34,434 - £39,152 per annum (pay award pending)
- Generous annual leave and flexitime policies
- Cycle to work scheme
- Access to electric vehicle pool car fleet
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Beautiful office location on National Trust estate, with free parking and café on site
- Discounts at National Park Visitor Centres
- Free parking in our car parks on Dartmoor
About you
Ideally, you will have knowledge and demonstrable experience of delivering NFM, catchment projects, soils and/or wetland restoration. You will have substantial experience of building positive working relationships with farmers and rural communities to support sustainable businesses and deliver environmental outcomes and will have worked extensively with contractors to deliver high-quality outcomes. Although a background in delivering nature-based solutions is preferable, a critical part of the role involves good communication, the ability to liaise confidently with contractors and farmers and strong project management. You will be comfortable promoting key messages to a wide range of audiences and building positive relationships with stakeholders.
When applying for this post, please highlight your suitability by referring to the essential and desirable requirements set out in the Person Specification. This information will be used in deciding those to be shortlisted. The post is based at the Authority’s head office at Parke, Bovey Tracey, but will involve travel to other sites within the National Park.
If you would like to know more about this exciting opportunity, please contact Kendal Archer, Dartmoor Headwaters Manager.
Closing Date: Sunday 23rd August at 5pm
Interview Dates: 3rd and 10th September 2026
Dartmoor National Park Authority is a disability confident and an equal opportunities employer, values diversity and is strongly committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and all applicants for employment. So, if you’re seeking your next challenge as a Dartmoor Headwaters Officer, please apply via the button shown.
Dartmoor Headwaters Officer - Natural Flood Management in Bovey Tracey employer: Dartmoor National Park Authority
Dartmoor National Park Authority is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in a stunning natural environment while contributing to the preservation and enhancement of Dartmoor's cultural heritage. With a strong commitment to employee development, a collaborative work culture, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on local communities, this role as a Planning Officer promises not only professional growth but also personal fulfilment in a vibrant and supportive team.
Contact Details:
Dartmoor National Park Authority Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Dartmoor Headwaters Officer - Natural Flood Management in Bovey Tracey
✨Dive into Environmental Networks
Get involved with sustainability-focused organisations and attend their events. Look for local meetups or conferences in environmental management where you can connect with professionals in the field. This can lead to insider info on job openings at companies like Dartmoor National Park Authority that might not be advertised widely.
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Consider undertaking personal or community projects that highlight your dedication to sustainability. Whether it's a local clean-up or a carbon footprint assessment, document your findings and results. This not only boosts your portfolio but also shows potential employers like Dartmoor National Park Authority that you're proactive and serious about the field.
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✨Let Your Online Presence Shine
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We think you need these skills to ace Dartmoor Headwaters Officer - Natural Flood Management in Bovey Tracey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Sustainability:In your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for sustainability shine through. Share any relevant experiences, like projects, volunteer work, or events you've participated in that align with Dartmoor National Park Authority's values. This position isn't just about meeting qualifications; it's about genuinely caring for the environment and showing us why you're the right fit for Dartmoor Headwaters Officer - Natural Flood Management.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications and Experience:Make sure to showcase any specific qualifications, such as degrees in environmental science or certifications in sustainability practices in your CV. We want to see how your academic background and practical experiences align with the job you're applying for, so don’t hold back on anything that demonstrates your expertise in environmental management.
Tailor Your CV to the Role:As we're looking for someone to jump into a full-time role, be specific about previous roles or projects that demonstrate your capabilities in sustainability. Use bullet points to make accomplishments clear, and don’t forget to quantify your achievements wherever possible – it’s all about showing us the impact of your work!
Research Dartmoor National Park Authority and Reflect It In Your Application:We love candidates who take the time to understand what we're about. Mention specific initiatives or projects that Dartmoor National Park Authority is known for in your cover letter. This shows us that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely excited about the chance to contribute to our mission in the role of Dartmoor Headwaters Officer - Natural Flood Management.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dartmoor National Park Authority
✨Brush Up on Environmental Legislation
Given that we're diving into sustainability and environmental management, it’s crucial to have a solid understanding of current environmental laws and regulations. Be prepared to discuss how these laws apply to real-world scenarios, as you might face some technical questions about compliance and best practices during your chat with Dartmoor National Park Authority.
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When you're discussing your background, highlight specific sustainability initiatives you've been involved in. Whether it’s a project at university or work experience, sharing measurable outcomes and your role will demonstrate your hands-on skills, which is super important for this full-time role at Dartmoor National Park Authority.
✨Familiarity with Tools and Software
Make sure you're familiar with any relevant tools or software commonly used in environmental management, like GIS for mapping or data analysis tools. Bring this up in your interview as it shows you’re not only passionate but also prepared to roll up your sleeves and get to work!
✨Connect Your Values with the Company's Mission
Full-time roles are all about team fit, so it’s important to align your personal values with those of Dartmoor National Park Authority. Be ready to discuss why you're passionate about sustainability and how you can contribute to their mission, as this will really resonate with the interviewers and show that you’re genuinely invested in their goals.
