Ecological trainee

Overview

Salary: £19,630 for 28 hours per week (4 days). Closing date: 2 February 2026. Location: Dorset Wildlife Trust HQ, Brooklands Farm, Forston, Dorchester, Dorset DT2 7AA. Contract type: Fixed term; Working hours: Part time.

Role

Dorset Wildlife Trust are happy to announce an ecological Dorset based traineeship. This is a 10-month bursary supported traineeship, undertaking ecological survey and monitoring work across our nature reserves, along with GIS and data work. The traineeship will be based at our headquarters at Brooklands Farm. Working alongside our Reserves Ecology Assistant as a mentor, the traineeship offers experience working in the conservation sector. This includes a comprehensive training package including qualifications in first aid, along with opportunities for training in ecological survey techniques. At the end of the 10 months, trainees will be experienced in a wide range of ecology survey and monitoring techniques, GIS and data work. Commencing on Tuesday 14 April our traineeship is an amazing opportunity for people wishing to pursue a career in environmental conservation. This traineeship is made possible by a private donor for which we are extremely grateful for being able to provide this opportunity.

Responsibilities

• Undertake ecological survey and monitoring work across Dorset Wildlife Trust nature reserves
• Engage with GIS and data management tasks related to ecological projects
• Receive mentorship from the Reserves Ecology Assistant and participate in training activities

Placement details

£19,630 for 28 hours per week (4 days). The placement is for 10 months duration.

Application timeline

The deadline for applications is 2 February 2026. Interviews/selection day will be held on 4 March at our Brooklands Farm HQ. The start date is expected to be 14 April 2026.