Natural Communities Programme Trainee: Biodiversity . based in Newtownabbey, Northern Ireland

Job title - Natural Communities Programme Trainee: Biodiversity . based in Newtownabbey, Northern Ireland

Salary: £12,511

Natural Communities is an innovative new programme providing 12 month long programmes to equip trainees with the skills to engage communities with the environment.

The Biodiversity Trainee will be based within Newtownabbey Borough Council at the Mossley Mill offices. The post will focus on raising awareness of local environmental issues through the delivery of practical environmental projects. The trainee will be required to involve a wide range of organisations including community groups, schools, private landowners, council members and other interest groups as appropriate. Examples of projects include community gardens, control of invasive species, volunteer conservation projects and environmental education. Responsibilities will also include collation of records, production of materials, publicity of events, organisation of events and sourcing grand aid.

During the placement you will learn and put into practice a wide range of community development and environmental improvement skills, work towards gaining an accredited qualification and develop and deliver your own community environmental engagement project.

You will need to have a basic knowledge of natural history and a commitment to conservation. Experience of practical environmental work will be an advantage, as will some experience of working with the public. You will be highly motivated and able to work efficiently without supervision. This role requires excellent communication and organisational skills and an aptitude for enthusing others to value, enjoy and protect our natural heritage.

Access NI check will be required and a driving licence and access to your own transport are essential.

The post will involve some evening and weekend work which can be taken as Time off in Lieu.

35 hours per week (fixed 12 month contract)

Natural Communities is supported by the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund

Closing date for completed applications is 25/11/11