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Rare Plant Recovery Specialist
📍 Sandy, Bedfordshire Hybrid Full-time Mid-level GBP 3,000–3,700/mo
About the Position
The RSPB is the UK’s largest nature conservation charity, managing over 200 nature reserves across the country. While known primarily for bird conservation, the RSPB manages significant areas of priority habitat supporting rare plants and fungi. We are seeking a Rare Plant Recovery Specialist to lead plant conservation work across our reserve network.
Responsibilities
- Design and implement rare plant recovery programmes on RSPB reserves
- Conduct botanical monitoring surveys and analyse population trends
- Develop habitat management prescriptions to benefit rare plant communities
- Coordinate seed collection, propagation, and reintroduction programmes
- Work with partner organisations on landscape-scale plant conservation initiatives
- Train reserve staff and volunteers in plant identification and monitoring techniques
What You’ll Work On
You will lead efforts to protect and recover threatened plant species across the RSPB’s reserve network, from Scottish machair to English chalk grasslands. Projects include restoring species-rich meadows, managing woodland flora, and supporting the UK’s plant recovery targets. The role is based at RSPB headquarters in Sandy with extensive travel to reserves across England and Scotland.
Requirements
- Degree in Botany, Conservation Biology, or Ecology - 3+ years experience in practical plant conservation or habitat restoration - Strong UK plant identification skills including grasses, sedges, and bryophytes - Experience managing conservation projects and volunteer teams - GIS skills and experience with ecological data management - Full UK driving license
What They Offer
- 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays - Employer pension contribution - Free RSPB membership - Employee assistance programme - Access to nature reserves across the UK - Training and development opportunities
