At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist with practical conservation tasks and work alongside a passionate team.
- Company: Join the Lowther Estate, dedicated to restoring nature and habitats.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, pension scheme, and discounts across the Lowther group.
- Other info: Ideal for self-motivated individuals who love hands-on work and nature.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in nature conservation while working outdoors.
- Qualifications: Full UK driving licence and experience in conservation or practical outdoor roles.
The predicted salary is between 29000 - 31000 £ per year.
Location: Lowther Estate, Cumbria
Type: Permanent/ full time
Hours: 40 hours weekly (Monday to Friday) plus weekend work as part of a rota (two half days worked over one weekend in every four weekends)
Salary: £29,000 – £31,000 PA DOE
Benefits: 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, pension scheme, various discounts across the Lowther group.
Closing date: Applications are due by the 27th November. Interviews will be scheduled for the week beginning 7th December. This role is expected to start in January 2027.
Since 2019 the Lowther Estate has been embarking on an ambitious new course to restore natural processes, lost habitats and recover species across the estate. We’ve built up a herd of hardy English longhorn cattle, planted thousands of new trees, restored rivers, streams & flower rich meadows, and are working towards reintroducing lost species such as beavers, harvest mice, glow worms & water voles.
We are looking for the right person to join us for the next chapter of nature conservation work, taking place across the estate. You will mainly work alongside the Conservation Manager & Ecologist assisting with a wide variety of practical tasks. You must be willing to work outside in all weathers, bring practical skills to the team and get stuck in with anything. One day you might be planting trees with our volunteer group, repairing a fence and helping to move cattle, another day you could be checking mink traps and propagating wildflower plug plants in our on-site nursery.
Although the role is primarily focussed on nature conservation you will have the opportunity to work with the Lake District Honey Company on an ad-hoc basis, getting involved with our commercial beekeeping operations when extra hands are needed. The work is practical and varied. It is ideal for someone that is self-motivated with a passion for restoring nature. Please note that this role will be physically demanding at times, e.g. when beekeeping it will occasionally involve lifting heavy boxes.
Essential:
- Full UK driving licence
- Some previous experience in either conservation, horticulture, farming, forestry, or another practical outdoor role
Desirable:
- Experience of growing plants/ horticulture
- Happy working with animals
- Experience of off-road driving
- Used to driving a quad bike or tractor
- Experience of working with volunteers
- Experience of fencing/ dry-stone walling
Conservation Assistant in Penrith employer: Lowther Castle
Working as a Front-of-House Catering Assistant at Lowther Castle and Gardens offers a unique opportunity to be part of a vibrant team in a stunning location. With competitive pay and a focus on high-quality customer service, employees benefit from a supportive work culture that values personal growth and development. This role is perfect for students seeking flexible weekend hours while gaining valuable experience in the catering industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Conservation Assistant in Penrith
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like Lowther Castle often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Conservation Assistant in Penrith
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Lowther Castle does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lowther Castle
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Lowther Castle will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Lowther Castle.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Lowther Castle.
