At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a passionate team to protect and enhance vulnerable heathland sites.
- Company: Join the South Downs National Park Authority, committed to conservation and community.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, a local government pension, and 28 days annual leave.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for professional development and team activities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on wildlife conservation while developing your project management skills.
- Qualifications: Project management experience and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30600 - 37400 £ per year.
Location: Based at South Downs Centre, Midhurst, working from the Bordon area and other locations
Closing Date: 16 August 2026
Interview Date: 1 September 2026
Salary: £35,281 to £42,553 (£21,168 to £25,531 pro rata)
Hours: 22.2 hours per week
Type of post: Fixed term: 2 years from start date (with immediate start preferable)
The Wealden Heath Strategic Access Management and Monitoring (SAMM) Project protects and enhances vulnerable heathland sites and provides expertise and resources to mitigate the impacts of increased recreational pressure at selected designated wildlife sites for East Hampshire District Council (EHDC) and Whitehill & Bordon Town Council (WTC). The project involves 12 organisations that have been working together since 2021 to protect and enhance Shortheath Common Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and the Wealden Heath (Phase II) Special Protection Area (SPA), located on the northern boundary of the South Downs National Park. The project covers seven key heathland sites: Ludshott Common, Woolmer Forest, Shortheath Common, Bramshott Common, Broxhead Common, Kingsley Common and Longmoor Inclosure.
We are looking for a dynamic individual with a passion for conservation and communication to manage the SAMM project team and to deliver the EHDC and WTC SAMM contracts. You will have excellent project management skills, experience of managing conflicting demands and delivering project outcomes to time and within budget. You will have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to establish, develop, and maintain positive working relationships with all key stakeholders.
As well as project and team management, the role involves developing and delivering a communication plan for the project, so excellent communication skills in a range of media are essential. Occasional weekend working will be required.
SDNPA is an inclusive organisation, and we welcome applications from everyone irrespective of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, faith and religion, disability and age. We operate a Guaranteed Interview Scheme (GIS) for disabled applicants. In all circumstances, the SDNPA appoints on merit based on evidence the applicant supplies in meeting the essential criteria for the post. Further information on our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion can be found on our website.
SDNPA Enhanced Benefits:
- Flexible working - (this is available for the majority of our roles. However, some positions may require on-site presence and/or specific hours due to business needs)
- Local government pension scheme
- Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme
- Heat Scheme (capped interest-free green home improvement loan, available on a first-come, first-served basis)
- Healthcare - includes cash plan, counselling and wellbeing discounts
- Access to Health and Wellbeing portal and webinars
- 28 days' annual leave, increasing to 31 days, plus bank holidays
- Professional development support
- Cycle to work scheme
- Car sharing
- Use of pool cars
- Regular staff events/activities, which support the SDNPA's Purposes and Duty
SAMM Project Team Leader employer: South Downs National Park Authority
The South Downs National Park Authority is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead conservation efforts in the stunning South Downs region. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, flexible working arrangements, and professional development support, you will thrive in a collaborative and inclusive work culture that values diversity and innovation. Join us in making a meaningful impact on our natural environment while enjoying generous benefits and a supportive community.
Contact Details:
South Downs National Park Authority Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SAMM Project Team Leader
✨Get Involved with Local Environmental Groups
Connect with local environmental groups and organisations that focus on sustainability and engineering. These communities often have job boards, networking events, and volunteer opportunities that can lead to part-time positions like the one we want to land together at South Downs National Park Authority.
✨Showcase Your Passion Through Projects
Working on environmental projects, whether it’s personal or for a community initiative, can showcase your skills and passion. Consider creating a digital portfolio or blog that highlights your contributions and learnings in environmental engineering tech; it’s a great way to stand out when applying for that part-time role!
✨Visit University Career Fairs
If you’re still studying, make the most of career fairs at your university. Many firms, including South Downs National Park Authority, actively scout for part-time interns there. It’s a golden opportunity to meet recruiters face-to-face and show them why you’re the right fit for their team right off the bat!
✨Leverage Online Platforms
Join online platforms that cater to environmental engineering jobs, like specialised job boards or forums. These channels help you not only find part-time gigs but also interact with professionals in the field. Plus, you can share your own insights and get noticed—just remember to direct them to your application on our website!
We think you need these skills to ace SAMM Project Team Leader
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Technical Skills:In the environmental engineering tech field, it’s super important to showcase your technical abilities. Make sure to include specific skills related to software and technologies relevant to this sector, like CAD programs or environmental modelling tools. This is especially key for a part-time role like SAMM Project Team Leader at South Downs National Park Authority, where practical skills can really set you apart!
Show Off Relevant Projects:Think about any hands-on projects or research you’ve done that showcase your problem-solving abilities in environmental engineering. Whether it’s a university project or a side gig, including a brief overview of these in your CV can grab attention. A part-time role means they might need you to hit the ground running, so demonstrating experience is a must.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for environmental issues and how they align with the mission of South Downs National Park Authority. Be sure to express your desire to contribute part-time, highlighting your motivation and willingness to learn. Let’s face it, a genuine enthusiasm for the field can go a long way in making you stand out!
Include Your Availability:When applying for a part-time role, it’s super helpful to mention your availability directly in your application. Whether you're going for specific days or flexible hours, being clear upfront saves time for both you and South Downs National Park Authority. It shows you're organised and ready to fit into their schedule effortlessly!
How to prepare for a job interview at South Downs National Park Authority
✨Brush Up on Technical Know-How
Since you're diving into the world of environmental engineering tech, make sure you're comfortable discussing relevant software and tools, like AutoCAD or GIS. They might throw in some technical questions or case studies during the interview to gauge your knowledge, so it’s a great idea to familiarise yourself with these before your chat with South Downs National Park Authority.
✨Show Your Passion for Sustainability
Part-time roles often get a lot of applicants, so make your passion for environmental issues stand out. Share any personal projects or volunteer work focused on sustainable practices, as it shows your dedication to the field and aligns with the values at South Downs National Park Authority.
✨Flexibility is Key
Part-time roles can require a bit of juggling between studying and work. Be ready to talk about how you plan to balance your schedule if you get the job with South Downs National Park Authority. Highlight your time management skills and steps you take to ensure you meet deadlines in both work and study.
✨Portfolio Perks
If you have any projects or portfolio work, be sure to bring it along! Even if your experience is limited, showcasing coursework related to environmental engineering tech or internships can really give you an edge. It’s a practical way to demonstrate your skills and creativity, so lean on that visual evidence during the interview.
