At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting peatland restoration projects and manage diverse stakeholders.
- Company: Join the South West Peatland Partnership, hosted by South West Water.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, health support, and development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a collaborative team atmosphere await you.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on climate change and biodiversity in stunning natural environments.
- Qualifications: Experience in nature conservation, project management, and GIS tools required.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 38000 £ per year.
Location: Okehampton / Peninsula House with flexible home working
Salary: £34,000 – £38,000
Hours: Full-time (37 hours per week)
Role Overview: We’re looking for a passionate and driven Project Officer to join the South West Peatland Partnership (SWPP)—a collaborative programme delivering large-scale peatland restoration across Cornwall, Dartmoor and Exmoor. Hosted by South West Water, this role puts you at the heart of environmental recovery, working alongside National Park Authorities, Natural England, the Environment Agency, and leading conservation organisations. This is a unique opportunity to play a hands‑on role in tackling climate change, improving biodiversity, and restoring some of the UK’s most important habitats.
What You’ll Be Doing:
- Act as Project Manager for restoration construction sites
- Lead design, planning and delivery of restoration works
- Manage contractors and apply Construction Design & Management (CDM) Regulations 2015
- Develop restoration plans using field survey data and GIS tools (QGIS/QField)
- Manage budgets (up to £1m annually) and oversee contractor payments
- Lead stakeholder engagement, including landowners, farmers, and public bodies
- Ensure high‑quality delivery, compliance, and health & safety standards
- Support monitoring, research projects, and training activities
- Collaborate across a wide partnership of environmental organisations
What We Are Looking For: We’re seeking someone with a strong blend of technical expertise, project management capability and stakeholder engagement skills.
Essential:
- Experience delivering nature conservation or land management projects
- Strong contract and contractor management experience
- Proven ability to manage budgets and project delivery
- Competence in GIS for site assessment and survey
- Experience engaging and negotiating with land managers and stakeholders
- Understanding of peatland, wetland or upland ecology
- Knowledge of health & safety and construction compliance
Desirable:
- Degree in a Natural Science (or equivalent experience)
- Experience applying CDM regulations
- Field survey and ecological monitoring skills
- SMSTS / SSSTS certification
What's In It For You:
- Generous holiday allowance + bank holidays
- Discretionary bonus
- Competitive contributory pension
- Share‑save scheme
- Health benefits & wellbeing support programmes
- Group discounts
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Financial support services
- Development and training opportunities and much more
Closing Date: 10th June 2026
Note: The successful candidate will be subject to a mandatory DBS check as part of the onboarding process.
Project Officer – South West Peatland Partnership in Okehampton employer: Pennon Group Plc
Join South West Water as a Project Officer and immerse yourself in a dynamic work culture that prioritises environmental recovery and collaboration. With flexible home working options, competitive salary, and a generous benefits package including health support and development opportunities, this role offers a meaningful chance to contribute to peatland restoration while growing your career in a supportive environment. Be part of a passionate team dedicated to tackling climate change and enhancing biodiversity in the stunning landscapes of Cornwall, Dartmoor, and Exmoor.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Officer – South West Peatland Partnership in Okehampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the environmental sector, especially those involved with peatland restoration. Attend events or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues and partners—this could lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for the environment! When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers or during interviews, share your personal experiences and projects related to nature conservation. This will help you stand out as someone who genuinely cares about the cause.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your project management skills. Be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets and contractors in past roles. Use specific examples to demonstrate your expertise in delivering successful projects.
✨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 South West Peatland Partnership team!
We think you need these skills to ace Project Officer – South West Peatland Partnership in Okehampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in nature conservation and project management. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Project Officer, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for peatland restoration and environmental recovery shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who’s not just qualified but also genuinely excited about making a difference in biodiversity and climate change.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your experiences and skills, as we appreciate clarity and directness. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity with the South West Peatland Partnership.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pennon Group Plc
✨Know Your Peatland
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of peatland ecology and restoration techniques. Being able to discuss specific projects or case studies will show your passion and expertise in the field, which is crucial for this role.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed projects, especially in nature conservation or land management. Highlight your ability to manage budgets and contractors, as well as your familiarity with CDM regulations.
✨Engage Stakeholders Effectively
Think about how you've engaged with various stakeholders in previous roles. Be ready to share strategies you've used to negotiate and collaborate with landowners, farmers, and public bodies, as this will be key in your new position.
✨Demonstrate Your Technical Skills
Familiarise yourself with GIS tools like QGIS/QField, as well as any relevant field survey techniques. Be prepared to discuss how you've applied these skills in real-world scenarios, as they are essential for developing restoration plans.
