At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our conservation team to manage beautiful nature reserves and engage with the community.
- Company: Suffolk Wildlife Trust, a leading conservation charity dedicated to protecting wildlife.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days of annual leave, a generous pension, and discounts at local retailers.
- Other info: We celebrate diversity and welcome everyone to contribute to our mission.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in nature conservation while working outdoors and connecting with people.
- Qualifications: Experience in conservation, strong IT skills, and a passion for wildlife.
The predicted salary is between 27385 - 27385 € per year.
We have an opportunity for an enthusiastic and suitably‑qualified conservationist to join us at Suffolk Wildlife Trust as an Assistant Warden covering our reserves across South East Suffolk.
Closing date: Tuesday 2 June 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: Foxburrow Nature Reserve, Saddlemakers Lane, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1NA
Responsibilities
- Support the conservation team in delivering high‑quality management across reserves including Foxburrow, Blaxhall Common, Captain’s Wood, Sandlings Heaths and Forest, Bromeswell Green, Hutchison’s Meadow, Martlesham Wilds, Newbourne Springs, Trimley Marshes and Levington Lagoon.
- Assist the Senior Warden to ensure reserves are managed in line with conservation objectives, completing agri‑environment scheme work, habitat management tasks, ecological monitoring, and evidence‑based reporting.
- Prepare contractor specifications, supervise works when needed, and maintain machinery, vehicles, equipment and reserve infrastructure to a high standard.
- Where livestock are part of the conservation approach, help maintain excellent welfare standards.
- Engage with the public and lead volunteer work parties, support day‑to‑day volunteer activities, and ensure Health & Safety procedures are understood and followed.
- Develop reserves as welcoming flagship sites, ensuring visitors enjoy safe and accessible trails, signage, interpretation and facilities.
- Act as an ambassador for Suffolk Wildlife Trust, supporting open days, guided walks and talks and sharing the Trust’s conservation impact through social media, local media and Trust communications.
Qualifications
- Previous experience in a similar role.
- Broad habitat and conservation management knowledge with awareness of agri‑environment schemes and Cross Compliance.
- Strong IT skills, especially in Microsoft 365, and willingness to use GIS, volunteer management and CRM systems.
- Familiarity with Health & Safety requirements.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, organisational, practical and problem‑solving skills.
- Self‑motivated, enthusiastic and engaging; able to undertake outdoor work in all weathers.
Benefits
- Annual leave entitlement starts at 33 days per annum (including Bank Holidays), increasing to 38 days, with an additional day off for a birthday.
- The role offers a 9% employer pension contribution with no employee contribution required, a free 24‑hour Employee Assistance Programme, free life insurance from day one, free access to a private GP, and discounts on high‑street retailers including a 10% discount in the Trust visitor centre cafes.
Other information
We are committed to being an inclusive organisation where everyone is welcome. As a conservation charity, we recognise the value of diversity both in nature and in our staff and volunteers, ensuring everyone feels respected, valued and empowered to contribute.
Assistant Warden (South East Suffolk) in Sutton Coldfield employer: Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Suffolk Wildlife Trust is an exceptional employer for conservationists, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With generous benefits including 33 days of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities to engage with the community, employees can thrive in their roles while making a meaningful impact on local wildlife and habitats in the beautiful South East Suffolk region.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Warden (South East Suffolk) in Sutton Coldfield
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Suffolk Wildlife Trust and its conservation efforts. This will help you connect with the interviewers and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to conservation management and your experience. Role-play with a friend or use our resources to boost your confidence before the big day.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion! During the interview, share specific examples of your previous work in conservation. Highlight any projects where you engaged with the public or led volunteer activities, as this aligns perfectly with the Assistant Warden role.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the position and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Warden (South East Suffolk) in Sutton Coldfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Conservation:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for conservation shine through! Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your commitment to protecting nature and wildlife.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to match the job description. Highlight your skills and experiences that align with the responsibilities of the Assistant Warden role, especially in habitat management and public engagement.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. This will help us understand your qualifications and experiences without getting lost in unnecessary details.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk Wildlife Trust
✨Know Your Conservation Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of habitat management and agri-environment schemes. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your understanding and passion for conservation.
✨Show Off Your People Skills
As an Assistant Warden, you'll be engaging with the public and leading volunteer work parties. Prepare to share examples of how you've successfully communicated and worked with diverse groups in the past. Highlight your interpersonal skills!
✨Get Familiar with the Reserves
Do some research on the specific reserves you'll be managing, like Foxburrow and Trimley Marshes. Knowing the unique features and challenges of these sites will show your genuine interest and help you stand out during the interview.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions about Health & Safety procedures and how you would handle various outdoor scenarios. Think through potential challenges you might face in the role and how you'd address them, showcasing your problem-solving skills.
