At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage livestock and deliver grazing on nature reserves across Sussex.
- Company: Join Sussex Wildlife Trust, a leader in conservation and wildlife protection.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 25 days annual leave, and health cash plans.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace welcoming diverse backgrounds and experiences.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on wildlife while working outdoors with animals.
- Qualifications: Passion for livestock and conservation; driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 24227 - 29611 £ per year.
Location: Wiston Estate
Salary: £26,475 plus dog allowance and out of hours annual payment and call out
Contract Type: Fixed term contract - 12 months
Hours: 35 hours per week over a 7 day rota
Closing Date: 5th October 2026
Interview Date: 12th October 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.
The Role:
- You will be part of a team that manages Sussex Wildlife Trust's livestock and delivers grazing on reserves across East and West Sussex.
- SWT currently runs nearly 300 head of cattle, 1000 head of sheep and a small group of goats and ponies, all of which help deliver conservation objectives across our nature reserves.
- A major part of the role will be to carry out lambing and calving and all the husbandry that goes along with it, from tagging and castrating right up to giving the ewes and cows an MOT before bulling/tupping.
- The role will include daily livestock checks, bedding up and feeding in the winter, carrying out basic animal husbandry, moving stock out onto reserves and gathering again at the end of the season ready for sale or to come back to the “home” farm.
- A knowledge of and experience using tractors and tractor mounted equipment would be desirable.
- You will be required to work one weekend in four, having the Friday before and the Friday after your weekend off, as well as responding to out of hours calls and emergencies where necessary.
The Person:
- A passion, love of livestock, farming and conservation is essential.
- A good sense of humour, flexibility and a tenacious approach to work are vital.
- A driving licence is essential to the role.
Benefits:
- 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.
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.
Grazing Officer in Wiston employer: Sussex Wildlife Trust
Sussex Wildlife Trust is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a culture of innovation, passion, and collaboration in the heart of Brighton. With a strong commitment to inclusivity and employee growth, we offer flexible working arrangements, generous annual leave, and opportunities for community engagement that empower our team to make a meaningful impact on local wildlife and habitats. Join us in our mission to create a thriving Sussex rich in nature, where your contributions will be valued and celebrated.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Grazing Officer in Wiston
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like Sussex Wildlife Trust often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Grazing Officer in Wiston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Sussex Wildlife Trust does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sussex Wildlife Trust
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Sussex Wildlife Trust will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Sussex Wildlife Trust.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Sussex Wildlife Trust.
