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- Tasks: Lead conservation projects for endangered freshwater pearl mussels and manage a passionate team.
- Company: Join the Freshwater Biological Association, dedicated to restoring river and lake ecosystems.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity and help save endangered species in stunning natural surroundings.
- Qualifications: Experience in conservation management and a passion for freshwater ecosystems.
- Other info: Be part of a mission-driven community with exciting career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Hours per week: Full time (37.5 hours)
Location: Primarily based at our Species Recovery Centre on the western shore of Windermere but also FBA offices in Milnthorpe nr Kendal, Cumbria. Hybrid working possible but you will need to attend the Species Recovery Centre at least 3 days per week.
Reports to: Head of Science
Contract type: Permanent
About us and what we do
Nestled on the stunning shores of Windermere in the heart of the Lake District, the Freshwater Biological Association is more than just a research organisation—it’s a mission-driven community dedicated to protecting and restoring the life of our rivers and lakes. Working here means being part of a team that combines science with a deep respect for nature, driving real-world impact for freshwater ecosystems.
At the heart of our work is our Species Recovery Centre, a unique facility where we carry out our vital science and conservation work. This centre is home to our pioneering efforts in freshwater pearl mussel conservation, a species on the brink of extinction. Through our exemplary captive breeding, research and conservation translocation programmes, we are giving these remarkable mussels a second chance, restoring populations on the brink of extinction and working with partners to safeguard the biodiversity of our rivers.
Our commitment doesn’t stop there. We lead an ambitious Arctic charr research and conservation programme, focusing on one of the UK’s most iconic and vulnerable fish species. By studying their ecology, genetics, and responses to multiple stressors, we aim to secure their future in our lakes. This work is not only scientifically exciting but vital for maintaining the health and heritage of freshwater ecosystems.
Looking ahead, we are determined to expand and innovate. Our vision is to grow the Species Recovery Centre into a hub of excellence for freshwater conservation, developing new techniques, forging partnerships, and training the next generation of scientists. We want to scale up our mussel and charr recovery work and explore restoration activities for other threatened species. Working at the FBA means joining a passionate team where your expertise contributes directly to reversing biodiversity loss and shaping a sustainable future. The work we do makes a real difference, where the science we undertake is not just for the sake of it, but applied to heal the natural world.
About the role
The role will primarily involve managing the pearl mussel team and the range of projects related to freshwater pearl mussel conservation breeding and translocation at the FBA Species Recovery Centre (4 days/week). You will also have the opportunity (1 day/week) to support the expansion of our species recovery ambitions within the organisation, shaping projects and site infrastructure around your own interests where they align with the ambitions of the FBA and freshwater species recovery.
The Species Recovery Manager will make up part of the Senior Leadership Team of the FBA and be specifically tasked with:
- Supported by the Head of Science, you will have overall responsibility for managing our well-established freshwater pearl mussel conservation breeding and translocation activities, including those of the EU LIFE-funded R4ever Kent project, tasked with releasing 4000 juveniles into the wild by 2029.
- Line management of team members (currently x2) and volunteers.
- Continuing the excellent relationships with partners/funders and fostering new partnerships/collaborations, including timely reporting on project progress and budgetary responsibility.
- Leading on and supporting bid‑writing activities to ensure the project remains on a sustainable funding footing.
- Overall responsibility for day‑to‑day Health & Safety and welfare of those working at/visiting our Species Recovery Centre, supported by the wider Senior Leadership Team.
- Manage environmental and monitoring data acquisition and analysis to support the needs of the project.
- Support the Head of Science in prioritising and securing additional nature/species recovery projects and with large‑scale development of facilities at the Species Recovery Centre to create a fit‑for‑purpose centre for excellence for conservation of freshwater species.
For full job details and the application process please visit the FBA website.
Species Recovery Manager – FBA in Milnthorpe employer: The Institute of Fisheries Management
Contact Detail:
The Institute of Fisheries Management Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Species Recovery Manager – FBA in Milnthorpe
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the freshwater conservation community, attend events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for freshwater ecosystems shine through. Share your experiences and ideas about species recovery—this will set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the FBA and its projects. Familiarise yourself with their work on pearl mussels and Arctic charr. This knowledge will help you ask insightful questions and demonstrate that you're genuinely interested in their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to the vital work we do at the Species Recovery Centre.
We think you need these skills to ace Species Recovery Manager – FBA in Milnthorpe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Conservation: When writing your application, let your love for freshwater ecosystems shine through! We want to see how your values align with our mission at the FBA. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to protecting and restoring nature.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Species Recovery Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing teams and projects, especially in conservation or related fields. We’re looking for someone who can lead our pearl mussel team effectively!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Institute of Fisheries Management
✨Know Your Species
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of freshwater pearl mussels and Arctic charr. Understand their conservation status, the challenges they face, and the innovative techniques being used for their recovery. This will show your passion and commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Species Recovery Manager, you'll be leading a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past. Highlight your experience in fostering partnerships and collaborations, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect questions about project management, health and safety protocols, and data analysis related to conservation efforts. Brush up on relevant methodologies and be prepared to discuss how you would apply them in the context of the FBA's mission.
✨Align with Their Vision
Familiarise yourself with the FBA's goals and future ambitions. Be ready to discuss how your interests and expertise can contribute to expanding their species recovery initiatives. Showing that you share their vision will set you apart from other candidates.
