We are looking for a Reserve Warden to take a hands-on role in managing our 320-hectare nature reserve at WWT Slimbridge. Slimbridge is the birthplace of modern wetland conservation, founded by Sir Peter Scott in 1946, and remains a world-renowned centre for wildlife and people. The reserve holds RAMSAR, SPA, SAC and SSSI designations and is internationally important for wetland habitats and species.
You will be responsible for practical habitat management, ecological monitoring and maintaining reserve infrastructure such as paths, hides and water control structures. The role also includes leading and supporting volunteers, delivering engaging walks and talks, and creating content that connects people with wetlands. You'll be working outdoors in a varied role where no two days are the same, developing your conservation, species identification and visitor engagement skills while working alongside an experienced and passionate team.
You'll play a direct role in protecting wildlife, inspiring visitors and supporting WWT's mission to restore wetlands and unlock their power for people and nature.
This is a casual position where hours are offered on an ad hoc basis. Candidates will need to be willing to work some weekends, bank holidays and during the school holidays.
Our ideal candidate will bring:
Conservation experience and wildlife knowledge – Experience working in a conservation, reserve management or land management setting, with strong bird identification skills and excellent field skills in at least one key wildlife group (such as birds, botany or invertebrates).
Confident communicator and visitor engager – Experience delivering walks, talks or other public engagement activities, with the ability to inspire a wide range of audiences and create memorable visitor experiences.
Practical and hands-on approach – Able to carry out outdoor habitat management and reserve maintenance work, with good IT skills and a full UK driving licence.
Team player with initiative – Experience supporting or supervising volunteers, with a positive attitude, enthusiasm for conservation and a commitment to helping deliver WWT's mission for wetlands and wildlife.
Please view the full job description for all the responsibilities and specifications for the role.
We’re WWT, and we’re on a mission to restore the super-powered ecosystems we call wetlands. There’s never been a more important moment for our work, and we’ve got some phenomenal people on the case.
Whether they’re taking a new visitor under their wing, or conducting ground-breaking research further afield, our team are second to none. And there’s nothing we love more than watching them soar.
Whatever you do here, you’ll be helping to restore wetlands and unlock their power. So, the only question left is, what role will you play?
Why you’ll love working at WWT
- Wake up every day knowing your work is helping to restore wetlands, and our world
- Be surrounded and inspired by our team of passionate, dedicated people
- Free entry to all our wetland centres, including your family
- Free car parking and secure bike storage areas
- Colleague discount on shopping and memberships
- Contributory pension scheme
WWT is an equal opportunities employer and all applications will be considered solely on merit.