Assistant Warden (South East Suffolk)
We have an opportunity for an enthusiastic and suitably‑qualified conservationist to join us at Suffolk Wildlife Trust as an Assistant Warden covering our reserves across South East Suffolk.
Closing date: Tuesday 2 June 2026
Salary: The starting salary will be up to £27,385.07 per annum depending on skills, knowledge and experience.
Contract type: Permanent / Working hours: Full time
Location: Foxburrow Nature Reserve, Saddlemakers Lane, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1NA
Responsibilities
- Support the conservation team in delivering high‑quality management across reserves including Foxburrow, Blaxhall Common, Captain’s Wood, Sandlings Heaths and Forest, Bromeswell Green, Hutchison’s Meadow, Martlesham Wilds, Newbourne Springs, Trimley Marshes and Levington Lagoon.
- Assist the Senior Warden to ensure reserves are managed in line with conservation objectives, completing agri‑environment scheme work, habitat management tasks, ecological monitoring, and evidence‑based reporting.
- Prepare contractor specifications, supervise works when needed, and maintain machinery, vehicles, equipment and reserve infrastructure to a high standard.
- Where livestock are part of the conservation approach, help maintain excellent welfare standards.
- Engage with the public and lead volunteer work parties, support day‑to‑day volunteer activities, and ensure Health & Safety procedures are understood and followed.
- Develop reserves as welcoming flagship sites, ensuring visitors enjoy safe and accessible trails, signage, interpretation and facilities.
- Act as an ambassador for Suffolk Wildlife Trust, supporting open days, guided walks and talks and sharing the Trust’s conservation impact through social media, local media and Trust communications.
Qualifications
- Previous experience in a similar role.
- Broad habitat and conservation management knowledge with awareness of agri‑environment schemes and Cross Compliance.
- Strong IT skills, especially in Microsoft 365, and willingness to use GIS, volunteer management and CRM systems.
- Familiarity with Health & Safety requirements.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, organisational, practical and problem‑solving skills.
- Self‑motivated, enthusiastic and engaging; able to undertake outdoor work in all weathers.
Benefits
Annual leave entitlement starts at 33 days per annum (including Bank Holidays), increasing to 38 days, with an additional day off for a birthday. The role offers a 9% employer pension contribution with no employee contribution required, a free 24‑hour Employee Assistance Programme, free life insurance from day one, free access to a private GP, and discounts on high‑street retailers including a 10% discount in the Trust visitor centre cafes.
Other information
We are committed to being an inclusive organisation where everyone is welcome. As a conservation charity, we recognise the value of diversity both in nature and in our staff and volunteers, ensuring everyone feels respected, valued and empowered to contribute.
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