Volunteer Engagement Lead — Hybrid Role at Rye Harbour

Hours: 21 hours per week (flexible working including some weekends and bank holidays).

Closing Date: 6th September 2026

Interview Date: 18th September 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. We are looking for talented individuals to join our team and help us deliver this exciting and ambitious strategy.

We particularly welcome applications from people currently underrepresented in the conservation sector, including disabled people, people from Black, Asian and other ethnically diverse backgrounds, people from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, non-graduates, and people from geographically diverse communities. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.

The Role:

Rye Harbour Nature Reserve & Discovery Centre is a welcoming and inclusive workplace. The Volunteer Coordinator oversees recruitment and retention of volunteers at Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, ensuring safeguarding requirements are met including DBS checks and references where appropriate. Responsibilities include:

• Developing new and innovative approaches to volunteering to attract new volunteers.
• Keeping existing volunteers engaged and promoting diversity in the organisation.
• Managing volunteer rotas and providing volunteer support.
• Planning and implementing activities and events to acknowledge and thank volunteers.
• Maintaining and updating the existing volunteer database.
• Ensuring data retained by Sussex Wildlife Trust is relevant and up to date.

The Volunteer Coordinator supports the Discovery Centre team and helps with daily operations of the visitor centre whenever possible.

The Person:

We’re looking for a volunteer coordinator who’s able to engage with a wide range of people. You will need:

• Imagination, resourcefulness, and diplomacy to effectively communicate verbally and in writing.
• Ability to build great working relationships with staff members, volunteers, and partners.
• Exceptional time management and organisational skills with the ability to prioritise a high volume of work.
• A high level of commitment, enthusiasm, and self-motivation with a flexible and professional approach to work.
• Readiness to support colleagues across the organisation where appropriate.

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.