At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage communities with nature and support conservation activities at Deneway Nature Reserve.
- Company: Join Sussex Wildlife Trust, a leader in wildlife conservation and community engagement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, training opportunities, flexible working, and 25 days annual leave.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace welcoming applicants from all backgrounds; training provided throughout the role.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing skills in conservation and engagement.
- Qualifications: Enthusiasm for nature, willingness to learn, and ability to connect with diverse communities.
The predicted salary is between 24447 - 24447 £ per year.
Location: The Keep, Brighton
Salary: £24,447
Contract Type: Fixed term contract - 12 months
Hours: 35 hours per week - some out of hours work (weekends and evening) required
Closing Date: 4th August 2026
Interview Date: 13th and 18th August 2026
Sussex Wildlife Trust (SWT) is committed to restoring and protecting at least 30% of Sussex land and sea for nature, inspiring one in four people to take meaningful action for wildlife, building a stronger more inclusive and diverse organisation and becoming a net zero and climate resilient organisation.
This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check.
The Role:
Using money raised by National Lottery Players, The National Lottery Heritage Fund supports projects that connect people and communities with the UK’s heritage. The Deneway’s Wild Future is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we are able to recruit a Community Engagement Officer (Trainee) to join our Wilder Communities Team as part of our Deneway's Wild Future programme. This traineeship offers an exciting opportunity to develop a career in community engagement and conservation while contributing to a project that will connect more people with nature and help create a wilder future for Brighton and Sussex.
In this role, you will help connect local people with Sussex Wildlife Trust's Deneway Nature Reserve, supporting community activities, events and engagement opportunities that inspire people to take positive action for nature. A key focus will be working with communities who may face barriers to accessing and enjoying nature and green spaces, helping to make the reserve a more inclusive and welcoming place for all. This is a 12-month fixed-term traineeship that combines practical work experience with a structured training programme. You will gain valuable skills, knowledge and recognised qualifications, including Forest School, Brush Cutter Operation, Chainsaw Training and Emergency First Aid certifications. The role includes some physically demanding outdoor work, including operating brush cutters and chainsaws, working on uneven terrain and handling equipment. Candidates must be able to carry out these essential duties safely and effectively, with reasonable adjustments considered in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.
About Deneway's Wild Future:
Deneway's Wild Future is about expanding access to a unique urban nature reserve located in the heart of Brighton. The Deneway Nature Reserve connects wildlife to downland adjoining the city, and for local people it provides a significant door-step opportunity to engage more closely with the natural environment, particularly for those who might otherwise experience barriers to connecting with nature and enjoying green spaces.
The Deneway's Wild Future project aims to:
- Improve access to the reserve, particularly those who face barriers to engaging with nature, helping to create a more inclusive and accessible space for everyone to enjoy.
- Enhance habitats so wildlife can thrive and strengthen the reserve's role as an urban wildlife corridor.
- Create opportunities for learning and pathways into conservation careers.
- Inspire and support local people to take action for nature within their communities.
The Person:
We're looking for someone who shares Sussex Wildlife Trust's vision for a wilder future, for everyone. You will be:
- Enthusiastic, self-motivated and eager to learn.
- Interested in developing a career in nature conservation, community engagement or a related field.
- Comfortable building relationships with people from a wide range of backgrounds.
- A confident communicator who enjoys engaging with new people and can represent Sussex Wildlife Trust positively and professionally.
- Willing to take initiative, work independently and develop the confidence to lead activities and engagement sessions.
- Committed to supporting communities to connect with, care for and take action for local green spaces and wildlife.
A key part of this role involves engaging with communities who may face barriers to accessing and enjoying green spaces. We are therefore looking for someone who can demonstrate openness, empathy, inclusivity and a genuine commitment to encouraging wider participation in nature. Throughout the traineeship, you will receive training and practical experience. As you build experience through the programme, you will be expected to work with a degree of independence - proactively building relationships with community groups, identifying opportunities for engagement, and planning and delivering sessions and activities with community groups confidently and effectively. Some experience in community engagement, working with people, volunteering or conservation is desirable but not essential. More important is a willingness to learn, a positive attitude and the confidence to develop new skills and take on increasing responsibility over the course of the traineeship. Knowledge of Brighton and the surrounding area would be advantageous. It is essential that you can commit to the full 12-month traineeship programme and hold a full, current UK driving licence.
Hybrid and Flexible Working – Supporting healthy work-life balance through flexible working arrangements where role requirements operationally allow.
25 Days Annual Leave – Plus bank holidays, rising to 27 days after 5 years' service; entitlement pro rata part-time.
Pension Contributions – With an optional salary sacrifice scheme to help maximise your retirement savings.
Life Assurance - Pension Scheme members receive 2x salary cover; non-members receive 1x salary cover.
Health Cash Plan – helping towards the cost of everyday healthcare expenses.
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) – Providing confidential support, advice and wellbeing resources.
Cycle to Work Scheme – Helping you save money while supporting a healthier and more sustainable commute.
Volunteering Days – Dedicated two days paid to support causes and communities that matter to you.
Café Discount – Enjoy discounted food and drinks at our Rye Harbour Discovery Centre cafe.
For more detailed information see the What we offer page in the Recruitment Pack.
We will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis and may close the vacancy early so please get your application in as soon as possible.
The recruitment process will be:
Practical Group Activity Date: 13 August
Time: 9:30am–12:30pm
Location: Deneway Nature Reserve
Successful candidates from the group activity will be invited to attend a formal interview on 18th August at our offices - The Keep, Brighton.
Trainee Community Engagement Officer in Brighton employer: Sussex Wildlife Trust
At Sussex Wildlife Trust, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. Located in the vibrant city of Brighton, we offer a supportive culture that encourages innovation and collaboration, alongside generous benefits such as 25 days of holiday, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for personal growth. Join us in our mission to protect local wildlife and engage with communities, where your passion for inclusion can truly make a difference.
