At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Coast and Country Canines project, engaging dog walkers to protect wildlife.
- Company: Join East Suffolk Council's Wildlife Wise team, making a real difference in conservation.
- Benefits: Generous leave, flexible working, local government pension, and discounts on various products.
- Why this job: Combine your passion for dogs and nature while making a positive impact on the environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with dogs and public engagement, plus a love for wildlife conservation.
- Other info: Work outdoors, enjoy varied tasks, and grow your career in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 26500 - 33500 £ per year.
Coast and Country Canines is a new project for the Wildlife Wise team. Wildlife Wise works with residents and visitors to prevent disturbance and damage to the Suffolk Coasts' internationally important wildlife and habitats. A motivated Coast and Country Canines Dog Project Officer will lead on the project and build on its success in the Thames Solent area by bringing it to the Suffolk Coast.
In this role you will help protect our stunning coastal, estuarine and heathland wildlife sites. This is a unique opportunity to combine wildlife conservation, community engagement and responsible dog ownership in a role that makes a genuine difference to people and nature.
Your role includes:
- Delivering the Dog Project aspect of the Suffolk Coastal Recreational Disturbance Avoidance and Mitigation Strategy, known publicly as Wildlife Wise.
- Leading and coordinating the Coast and Country Canines Dog Project, working closely with both Wildlife Wise and the Coast and Country Canines team in the Thames Solent area.
- Engaging dog walkers, encouraging responsible behaviours and reducing disturbance to wildlife.
- Acting as the primary point of contact for dog walkers around preventing disturbance to wildlife across the project.
- Delivering events, workshops, campaigns and training sessions that promote responsible dog ownership.
- Building positive, trust-based relationships with community groups, vets and dog walking organisations.
- Producing high quality educational resources and social media content.
- Supporting project administration and contributing to practical on-site improvements.
- Collaborating closely with the Wildlife Wise Delivery Manager, local authorities and partner organisations.
- Monitoring dog-related activity on protected sites and assessing the effectiveness of mitigation measures.
What you will need:
- A passion for the environment, responsible dog ownership, and helping people enjoy nature while protecting sensitive habitats and wildlife.
- Experience with dogs and a good understanding of dog behaviour and modern ethical dog training practices.
- Experience in face-to-face public or customer engagement.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to build positive relationships.
- Adaptability and physical capability to work outdoors in all conditions.
- IT literacy and confidence using Microsoft Office and modern technology.
- Access to a car for regular travel across a wide rural area.
East Suffolk Council offers generous leave entitlement, a local government pension scheme, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for learning and development. The Wildlife Wise team has a fixed office day every Monday, alternating between East Suffolk House in Melton and Riverside in Lowestoft. On other days, the team works flexibly, combining home and office working.
For an informal discussion regarding this post, please contact Sam Kench by either calling 07818 555494 or emailing. Closing date: 11.59 pm, 8 April 2026. Interview date: 21 April 2026.
How to apply:
- Read the advert and the Job Description and Person Specification.
- Complete the Supporting Statement template indicating how you meet each of the criteria.
- Complete the online application and upload your statement. CVs are not accepted.
Coast and Country Canines Dog Project Officer in Woodbridge employer: East Suffolk Council
Contact Detail:
East Suffolk Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Coast and Country Canines Dog Project Officer in Woodbridge
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Wildlife Wise team and the Coast and Country Canines project. Research their goals and values so you can show your passion for wildlife conservation and responsible dog ownership during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with local dog walking groups, community organisations, and even vets. Building relationships now can give you a leg up when it comes to landing that job.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for your interview by thinking about how you can engage the community and promote responsible dog ownership. Have some creative ideas ready to share that align with the project's mission.
✨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 East Suffolk Council team.
We think you need these skills to ace Coast and Country Canines Dog Project Officer in Woodbridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly: Before you start writing, give the job description a good read. It’s packed with info about what we’re looking for in a candidate, so make sure you understand the role and its requirements.
Tailor Your Supporting Statement: Use the Supporting Statement template to highlight how your experience aligns with the Person Specification. Be specific and relate your skills to the responsibilities of the Coast and Country Canines Dog Project Officer role.
Show Your Passion for Wildlife and Dogs: We want to see your enthusiasm for wildlife conservation and responsible dog ownership. Share any relevant experiences or projects that demonstrate your commitment to these areas in your application.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you follow the correct process. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at East Suffolk Council
✨Know Your Stuff About Wildlife and Dogs
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of local wildlife, especially the species that are sensitive to disturbances. Also, be prepared to discuss dog behaviour and training techniques, as this role heavily involves responsible dog ownership.
✨Show Your Community Engagement Skills
Think of examples where you've successfully engaged with the community or influenced behaviour. This could be through workshops, events, or even social media campaigns. Be ready to share how you can build trust-based relationships with dog walkers and local groups.
✨Demonstrate Your Adaptability
This role requires someone who can work outdoors in various conditions and handle equipment. Be prepared to discuss your experience in similar environments and how you adapt to changing situations, including working flexible hours.
✨Bring Your IT Skills to the Table
Since you'll be producing educational resources and managing project documentation, highlight your proficiency with Microsoft Office and any other relevant tech tools. Share specific examples of how you've used technology to enhance your work or engage with the public.