Habitat & Species Restoration Lead

Join us at Dunham Massey as we embark on one of the National Trust’s most ambitious nature restoration programmes. Over the next decade, we’ll transform 1,200 hectares of woodland, wetland, river and farmland to create a nature rich, resilient landscape that inspires millions.

Internally you'll be known as 'Wildlife Manager'.

What it's like to work here

You’ll be part of a passionate, collaborative team delivering landscape scale change in a unique green space used by 2.85 million people. Most of your time will be spent outdoors at Dunham Massey, with some travel to nearby NT places across Greater Manchester, Liverpool and Lancashire.

What you'll be doing

You’ll support major nature recovery projects across the estate, including large scale woodland creation (500,000 trees), peatland and wetland restoration, river restoration and hedgerow reinstatement. You’ll lead habitat and species monitoring, carry out surveys and provide ecological advice, while coordinating contractors, specialists and partners to ensure successful delivery. Alongside this, you’ll help improve access routes so more people can enjoy nature, manage project budgets, secure funding and ensure work is delivered efficiently.

Working closely with rangers, volunteers, tenants and local communities, you’ll play a key role in caring for habitats and supporting a thriving, resilient landscape

Who we're looking for

Applications from redeployees are assessed against the minimum criteria for the role. In your application, please provide details of how you meet the minimum criteria below:

• Practical habitat management experience.
• Strong ecological knowledge (surveys, monitoring, data analysis).
• Experience delivering large‑scale habitat or nature recovery projects.
• Knowledge of health & safety and environmental legislation.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Positive, collaborative approach and ability to work outdoors year‑round.
• Full UK driving licence.

Additional criteria for all other applicants:

• Understanding of agricultural systems and nature‑friendly farming.
• Experience managing contractors and budgets.

The package

The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. xekaoyc We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.

• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
• Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
• Rental deposit loan scheme
• Season ticket loan
• EV car lease scheme (for roles that meet the salary criteria)
• Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
• Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.
• Flexible working whenever possible
• Employee assistance programme
• Free parking at most Trust places