At a Glance
- Tasks: Support conservation efforts and lead volunteer teams to protect local wildlife.
- Company: Join Suffolk Wildlife Trust, a passionate conservation charity.
- Benefits: Up to 38 days leave, wellness services, and discounts at retailers.
- Other info: Permanent role with excellent career growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference for wildlife while working outdoors.
- Qualifications: Experience in conservation, teamwork skills, and a full driving licence.
The predicted salary is between 27385 - 27385 £ per year.
Closing date: Monday 24 August 2026
Salary: The starting salary will be up to £27,385.07 per annum, depending on skills, knowledge and experience.
Contract type: Permanent / Working hours: Full time
Location: Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve & Visitor Centre, Carlton Marshes, Burnt Hill Lane, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 8HU
We have an opportunity for an enthusiastic and passionate conservationist to join us at Suffolk Wildlife Trust as an Assistant Warden covering our reserves across North East Suffolk.
As an Assistant Warden you will be a key member of the Reserves Team supporting the Warden to deliver high-quality conservation management across a network of Suffolk Coast reserves, which include Carlton Marshes, Oulton Marshes, Castle Marshes, Worlingham Marshes, Lound Lakes, Barsham Marshes, Winks Meadow and Gunton Meadow.
The post holder will help implement habitat management plans, contribute to agri-environment schemes, carry out survey and monitoring work and ensure the welfare of Trust livestock, as well as maintaining machinery, vehicles, infrastructure and access so that reserves are safe, well cared for and managed in line with the Trust’s conservation objectives.
A central part of the role is working alongside and leading volunteers to achieve excellent on-the-ground conservation outcomes. You will plan, coordinate and supervise volunteer work parties, ensuring tasks are well organised, enjoyable and delivered safely, with all Health & Safety procedures followed. You will support volunteer recruitment and induction, build strong relationships with new and existing volunteers, and keep them informed, motivated and engaged so they feel valued and connected to the Trust’s work.
The Assistant Warden will be a practical, self-motivated person with a strong commitment to bringing nature back. You will have good conservation and habitat management knowledge, experience in a similar role (paid or voluntary) and be confident using tools and machinery, including chainsaws and brushcutters. You’ll be fit for physically demanding outdoor work in all weathers, well organised, a good team player, able to coordinate and motivate volunteers, confident with Microsoft 365 and hold a full driving licence.
This is a fantastic opportunity to get involved with a local wildlife trust and do amazing things for wildlife. This is a permanent, full-time position working 37.5 hours per week (five out of seven days each week) based at Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve.
Our Employee Perks & Benefits include leave entitlement increasing with service up to 38 days annually plus an extra day off for your birthday, a 9% employer pension contribution with no employee contribution required, salary sacrifice benefits, an Employee Assistance Programme, flu vaccinations, life assurance and access to a GP and wellness services. You’ll also receive discounts at high street retailers, discounts in our visitor centre, and, if you’re in a public-facing role, you’ll get logo clothing.
Suffolk Wildlife Trust is committed to an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone is welcome. As a conservation charity, we recognise the importance of diversity in both nature and our workforce of staff and volunteers. We strive to ensure that everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute to our vision of "A Wilder Suffolk where nature is thriving and abundant because everyone is doing more to help".
Assistant Warden (Broads & Lower Waveney) employer: Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Suffolk Wildlife Trust is an exceptional employer for those passionate about conservation, offering a supportive work culture that values teamwork and community engagement. Located at the scenic Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve, employees benefit from generous leave entitlements, a robust pension scheme, and various wellness initiatives, all while contributing to meaningful conservation efforts in a diverse and inclusive environment. Join us to make a real difference for wildlife and enjoy a fulfilling career with ample opportunities for personal and professional growth.
