At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead peatland restoration projects and engage with landowners for sustainable management.
- Company: Join the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, a champion for climate action.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, generous pension scheme, and a focus on wellbeing.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace that values every individual's contribution.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Scotland's environment while developing your career in conservation.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management and land management; passion for nature is essential.
The predicted salary is between 39130 - 46856 £ per year.
Be part of the team championing bold action for climate, nature, and people in Scotland’s first National Park. Join us and be part of the change.
Salary: £39,130 - £46,856 (Band D) per annum
Working Hours: 35 hours per week – happy to discuss flexible working
Contract: 12 months with possibility of extension.
Location: Balloch, with hybrid working model
The Role: The post holder will be part of the Peatland team within the Nature and Land Use Team in the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, working to develop and scale up the peatland restoration programme within the National Park. This will include working with colleagues and land managers to develop a firmer understanding of further peatland restoration needs in the National Park. This will require building relationships with landowners who are not currently engaged in discussions with us about peatland restoration, and improving our understanding of peatland extent and condition. This will include investigation of new methods and data such as LiDAR or remote sensing for analysis to augment existing field work and improve scale and efficiency. The post holder will develop and deliver peatland restoration projects and contribute to ensuring integration of peatland management considerations into our Future Nature programme in relation to wider nature restoration and integrated land management. The post holder will also work closely with other Peatland ACTION partners to ensure that the improved understanding of the peatland resource in the National Park contributes to information and research needs in relation to the Scottish peatland restoration programme.
Responsibilities:
- Develop the necessary partnerships and engagement with landowners about the peat resource on their land and the scope for peatland restoration and sustainable management, negotiate access for peat surveys and develop options for its sustainable management and restoration.
- Develop new options for scaling up resources for delivery, including use of Peatland Code and novel funding sources and new approaches for commissioning project design and delivery.
- Improve our understanding of the extent and condition of the peatland resource in the National Park by developing and delivering a survey programme.
- Develop and deliver a programme of further ground-truthing surveys including contracts for peat depth, condition, HIA and other monitoring and research to identify further restoration priorities and improve information on the multiple benefits delivered by peatland restoration.
- Develop and deliver peatland restoration projects to scale up immediate delivery, including the supervision of specialist contractors.
- Contribute peatland advice to other areas including Nature Restoration Fund projects, Resilient Farm Network and the Landscape Connections programme to help them maximise their benefits for peatland in the National Park.
- Undertake financial management of projects including approving completion, checking payment claims and reporting and contributing to programme budget planning and management.
- Monitor project delivery, setting milestones and producing regular reports for the National Park Authority and NatureScot which will include data on peat habitat improved, restored or positively managed as a part of project work.
- Run demonstration and training events, open days, and awareness raising activities to raise awareness of the value of our peatland resource as part of the broader climate change agenda.
- Undertake any line management or other duties appropriate to the grade as required.
Who we are looking for:
Your skills, abilities and experience should include:
- Experience of developing and maintaining positive working relationships with land managers, agencies, organisations, contractors and suppliers to deliver land management projects.
- Proven experience of project management and successful delivery.
- Experience of managing contractors.
- Experience in successfully delivering projects to budget.
- Good knowledge of upland management and land use.
- Knowledge and experience of securing project funding including novel sources such as green investment, biodiversity enhancement, carbon accounting and funding.
- Proven ability to achieve targets, manage workloads and projects to set deadlines.
- Ability to work in remote locations and navigate across challenging upland terrain in all weathers.
- A full UK driving licence or access to a driver if disability prevents this.
Ideally, but not essentially, you’ll also have:
- Direct experience of peatland survey, management and restoration projects and techniques.
- Experience of working with funding streams for land management such as Peatland Code, Peatland Action, AECS & FGS.
- Experience in procuring and in analysing land use information associated with GIS and other information systems.
- Practical experience of producing plans, specifications and costs for peatland and/or habitat restoration schemes.
- Experience of working with CDM 2015 Regulations.
- Working knowledge of one or more of the following themes: upland farming, management of wild deer, woodland and forestry, natural flood management, habitat restoration and/or moorland management for sporting interests.
- Experience of utilising complex data and emerging techniques such as LiDAR and remote sensing for interrogating habitat extent and condition.
- Licensed UAV pilot.
- Botanical expertise at the NVC survey level.
- Off-road driving experience.
How to apply: If you are interested in this role, please complete your application by 22nd June 2026 @ 9am. Access our application form on our job portal. Interviews will be virtual, taking place week commencing 29th June 2026.
Who we are and our values: We offer flexible and remote working, with a generous pension scheme and annual leave allowance. Staff have access to wellbeing services and there is a strong focus on wellbeing throughout the organisation. Being part of Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority means being passionate about what you do, working hard to inspire and lead the way for others. We care about each other and are accessible and friendly treating each other with respect and understanding, we think about our planet with each decision we make. Together, we are the difference. Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority are proud to celebrate difference. Diversity of experience is vital in our success we want our business to be representative to the communities we work alongside. As an equal opportunity employer, we actively encourage applicants from a wide range of individuals, irrespective of age, disability, gender reassignment, gender identity and expression, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.
Peatland Action Development Officer in Balloch employer: Loch Lomond & The Trossachs.org
Join the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority as a Peatland Action Development Officer and be part of a dedicated team making a tangible impact on climate and nature in Scotland's first National Park. With a strong emphasis on employee wellbeing, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for professional growth, this role offers a unique chance to engage with landowners and drive peatland restoration projects that benefit both the environment and local communities. Experience a supportive work culture that values diversity and collaboration, all while contributing to meaningful conservation efforts in a stunning natural setting.
Contact Details:
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs.org Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Peatland Action Development Officer in Balloch
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Peatland team and the projects they’re working on. Research their current initiatives and think about how your skills can contribute. This will help you stand out in conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Networking is key! Reach out to current or former employees of the National Park Authority on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for your application process. Building these connections can give you insider knowledge and potentially a foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for your interview by practising common questions related to project management and land use. Think about specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your skills and experience. The more prepared you are, the more confident you'll feel!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and being part of the change we’re championing together.
We think you need these skills to ace Peatland Action Development Officer in Balloch
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for peatland restoration and climate action shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in Scotland’s National Park!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. We’re looking for specific examples of your project management and relationship-building abilities, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to understand your qualifications and motivations. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application via our job portal! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
How to prepare for a job interview at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs.org
✨Know Your Peatland Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of peatland management and restoration techniques. Familiarise yourself with the latest methods like LiDAR and remote sensing, as well as the Peatland Code. This will show that you're not just passionate about the role but also well-informed.
✨Build Relationships Beforehand
Since this role involves engaging with landowners and stakeholders, try to network with them before your interview. If you can mention any prior connections or discussions you've had, it’ll demonstrate your proactive approach and ability to build relationships.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Be ready to discuss specific projects you've managed in the past. Highlight how you delivered them on time and within budget, and be prepared to share any challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This will illustrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the role.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to be asked about real-life scenarios related to peatland restoration and management. Think through potential challenges you might face in the role and how you would address them. This will help you demonstrate your problem-solving skills and practical knowledge.
