Job Description
Powered by Water, Driven by Purpose
South West Water keeps the South West flowing with safe, reliable drinking water and wastewater services across some of the UK's most stunning landscapes.
We're proud to be part of Pennon Group, a leader in the UK water sector, working towards a greener future. Our goals? As well as lowering our carbon footprint, we're working with partners to plant 300,000 trees, restore peatlands and supporting farmers and landowners to improve water quality and wildlife.
Whether you're starting out or seeking a new challenge, our scale and ambition create opportunities for you to shape your own career.
Ready to make a splash? Join our team today.
Help restore some of the South West's most valuable landscapes
The South West Peatland Partnership (SWPP) is an ambitious collaboration of 22 partner organisations working together to restore and protect peatlands across Cornwall, Devon and Somerset. Hosted by South West Water, we're delivering large-scale environmental improvements through a range of funding programmes, including Defra's Nature for Climate Peatland Grant Scheme administered by Natural England.
We're looking for an experienced and passionate Farm Officer to play a key role in engaging farmers, landowners and rural stakeholders to help deliver peatland restoration and sustainable land management across the region.
If you're knowledgeable about upland farming systems, agri-environment schemes and habitat restoration, and enjoy building trusted relationships within farming communities, we'd love to hear from you.
What you'll be doing:
As Farm Officer, you'll work closely with farmers, landowners, partner organisations and the wider SWPP team to identify opportunities that improve peatland health, water quality and biodiversity while supporting productive farming businesses.
You'll:
- Provide advice on agri-environment schemes, grazing management and sustainable land use.
- Support and guide farmers through applications for schemes such as Countryside Stewardship, ELMS and other environmental funding opportunities.
- Build strong relationships with farmers, landowners, agents and rural interest groups.
- Deliver site visits, workshops and engagement events across the South West.
- Work collaboratively with restoration and monitoring specialists to assess the impact of peatland restoration on farming systems.
- Collect and record project data using GIS mapping tools and LandApp.
- Produce reports, case studies and presentations for funders and stakeholders.
- Keep up to date with agricultural policy, legislation and environmental best practice, sharing knowledge across the partnership.
What we are looking for:
We're looking for someone who combines technical agricultural knowledge with excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
You'll ideally have:
- A degree in Agriculture or a related discipline, or equivalent experience.
- Experience working within agriculture, environmental land management or conservation.
- A strong understanding of upland farming systems and agri-environment schemes.
- Experience advising farmers, landowners or rural businesses.
- Knowledge of peatland, wetland or upland habitat management.
- Experience preparing and delivering Higher Tier scheme applications.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office applications.
- Experience using GIS and mapping software.
It would be advantageous if you also have:
- Experience of ecological survey or monitoring.
- Knowledge of South West habitats and conservation management.
- Experience using LandApp or similar land management platforms.
- Familiarity with NoFence collar systems.
Please note: This role requires regular visibility across the South West, including frequent travel throughout Devon, Cornwall and Somerset, attendance at stakeholder meetings, and occasional evening events and overnight stays. Based on the nature of the role, a full UK driving licence is essential.
Why join us?
This is a unique opportunity to make a tangible impact on the South West's landscape, helping to restore vital peatland habitats while working alongside farmers and partners who are passionate about protecting our natural environment.
- Generous holiday allowance +
Farm Officer in Exeter employer: South West Water
At South West Water, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises employee health and wellbeing. With a commitment to sustainability and community engagement, our Occupational Health and Wellbeing Lead will have the unique opportunity to shape impactful programmes while enjoying generous benefits, including 30 days of annual leave. Join us in making a meaningful difference in the lives of our employees and the environment.
