West Dorset Conservation Trainee

Dorset Wildlife Trust are looking to fill a four month training placement (no salaried position offered, but bursary offer) within the West Dorset reserves team. The Heritage Lottery Funded programme, which is aimed at individuals wishing to pursue a career in the wildlife conservation sector, will provide the successful candidate with practical experience and in house training opportunities.

The trainee can expect to be part of reserves team which manages nine reserves across the West Dorset area, covering a variety of habitats, along with running a trust owned farm. The main focus of the traineeship, within the team, will be to assist in habitat management works throughout the placement, including hedgelaying, scrub clearance and tree felling. There will be occasional opportunities to assist with livestock handling and husbandry, with further opportunities as part of the wider training programme to be involved with trust wide projects. There may also be the opportunity to be involved with wildlife monitoring and education/ engagement.

The post will be located at Dorset Wildlife Trust Kingcombe Meadows Farm. The trainee will be expected to travel to this location daily at their own expense. Accommodation may be available as part of traineeship, in a mobile home on site.

The applicant must hold an NPTC chainsaw licence CS30 and CS31, and a full UK driving licence is required.

Applicant should be enthusiastic about nature conservation, a willingness to learn new skills and be willing to work outdoors in all weathers.

Priority in shortlisting applicants will be given to young people aged between 16 - 25 years and not in education training or employment.

Application is invited by sending a cv and covering letter to Steve Davis, Skills for the Future training manager by email to sdavis@dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk or post to :

Dorset Wildlife Trust,  Brooklands Farm, Forston, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 7AA.

Interviews to be held in w/c 28th October.