At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting aquatic conservation projects and conduct hands-on fieldwork across the UK.
- Company: Join ZSL, a leading international conservation charity dedicated to saving wildlife.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and access to wellbeing initiatives.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to supporting underrepresented communities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on aquatic species while working with passionate conservationists.
- Qualifications: Degree in biology/conservation or equivalent experience; strong data analysis skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
As a Species Conservation Officer you will contribute to a diverse portfolio of UK-based aquatic species conservation projects. These include, but are not limited to, efforts to restore native sturgeon populations, advance eel recovery initiatives in London, and monitor seals across the Greater Thames Estuary. You will play a central role in delivering these projects, working closely with delivery partners and undertaking fieldwork across riverine and coastal environments. Responsibilities will also include managing and analysing data, contributing to report writing, and supporting effective project delivery from field to final outputs. Through this varied and hands-on role, you will make a direct contribution to ZSL’s wider conservation strategy and objectives, helping to drive impactful conservation action for aquatic species across the UK. This position is offered as a full-time, 12-month fixed-term contract.
Key responsibilities
- Project coordination and communication: Build and maintain effective relationships with project partners, stakeholders, and community groups.
- Fieldwork: Conduct fieldwork in riverine and coastal environments, from shore and vessels, in a range of weather conditions.
- Data management and analysis: Analyse ecological and monitoring data to support project objectives and inform decision-making.
- Report writing and dissemination: Produce high-quality project reports clearly outlining methods and outcomes.
- Fundraising: Support the development of grant applications for existing and new projects.
About you
- Educated to undergraduate degree level in biology/conservation or related subject area, or equivalent qualification, or demonstrate such a level of equivalent qualifications and experience through relevant practical work experience.
- A good understanding of the current challenges facing aquatic conservation primarily in the UK.
- Strong skills in analysing, visualising, and interpreting complex datasets using relevant software and programming languages (e.g. Python, R, MATLAB).
- Ability to travel to field sites across different parts of the UK, with the role based in London.
- Due to the nature of the role a full driving license is required for this role.
This role is subject to standard pre-employment checks, including confirmation of your right to work in the UK. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. ZSL recognises that conservation is one of the least diverse sectors, and we actively encourage applications from candidates who identify as part of underrepresented communities. We are committed to building a supportive and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive and celebrate the value of having a team of employees with diverse skills, experiences, and heritage.
About us
We’re ZSL, an international conservation charity. Through our unrivalled animal experts in our two zoos (London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo), the work of our pioneering scientists, our dedicated conservationists, our purpose is to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wild animals going extinct. Our vision is a world where wildlife thrives and we’re working every day to achieve this. From investigating the health threats facing animals, to helping people and wildlife live alongside each other, we are committed to bringing wildlife back from the brink of extinction.
What do we offer?
- Pension scheme - we offer a generous pension scheme with up to 12% contributory pension.
- Flexible working - talk to us about your flexible working requirements and we will do everything we can to make sure you work in a way that suits you.
- Holidays - 25 days annual leave allowance, plus UK bank holidays.
- Wellbeing - access to a blended programme of wellbeing initiatives, including confidential access to our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
- Life assurance - eligible employees will be enrolled in ZSL’s life assurance scheme from their first day.
- Complimentary tickets - annual allocation of Whipsnade Zoo and London Zoo tickets, with a 30% discount in online and retail shops.
- Cycle2Work - our cycle to work scheme enables you to lease a bicycle.
- Season ticket loan - we offer an interest free loan for eligible London-based employees to buy a season ticket for travel between home and work.
- Family friendly policies - we offer enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption packages.
We may close this role early or extend the closing date due to the number of applications we receive, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible. We anonymise applications until interview stage to ensure a fair hiring process. It’s important to highlight your unique skills, experience, and knowledge.
Species Conservation Officer in London employer: Zoological Society of London (ZSL)
At ZSL, we are dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where passionate individuals can thrive in their conservation careers. As a Species Conservation Officer based in London, you will enjoy flexible working arrangements, generous benefits including a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for professional growth while contributing to impactful projects that protect aquatic species across the UK. Join us in our mission to inspire and empower communities to safeguard wildlife, all while enjoying the unique advantages of working within a leading international conservation charity.
Contact Details:
Zoological Society of London (ZSL) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Species Conservation Officer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research ZSL and its conservation projects. Understanding their mission and values will help you connect with interviewers and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the Species Conservation Officer role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for fieldwork discussions! Brush up on your knowledge of aquatic species and conservation challenges in the UK. Be ready to share your thoughts on how you can contribute to projects like sturgeon restoration or eel recovery.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to showcase your data skills! Be prepared to discuss your experience with data management and analysis tools like Python or R. Highlight how these skills can support ZSL’s conservation objectives.
We think you need these skills to ace Species Conservation Officer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Conservation:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for aquatic conservation shine through! Share specific examples of your experiences or projects that relate to the role, especially those that demonstrate your commitment to protecting UK species.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight the skills and experiences that align with the job description. Use keywords from the posting, like 'data management' and 'fieldwork', to show we’re on the same page about what you bring to the table.
Be Clear and Concise:We appreciate clarity! Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant, and make sure your writing is easy to read. This will help us quickly see how you fit into our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, it shows you’re keen to be part of our community right from the start.
How to prepare for a job interview at Zoological Society of London (ZSL)
✨Know Your Aquatic Species
Make sure you brush up on the specific aquatic species mentioned in the job description, like sturgeons and eels. Understanding their conservation challenges will show your passion and knowledge during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Data Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with data management and analysis. Bring examples of how you've used software like Python or R to interpret complex datasets, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Fieldwork Readiness
Since fieldwork is a big part of the job, be ready to talk about your previous field experiences. Highlight any relevant work you've done in riverine or coastal environments, and mention your adaptability to different weather conditions.
✨Communicate Effectively
Demonstrate your communication skills by discussing how you've built relationships with stakeholders or community groups in past roles. This will show that you can effectively coordinate projects and engage with partners.
