Terrestrial Restoration Manager

The Kilchoan Estate is a cultural and educational enterprise in restoration, preservation & sustainability. Across 1500 acres we are restoring habitats, creating gardens and caring for historic breed livestock. We are looking for enthusiastic applicants to join our team as a terrestrial restoration officer.

Situated on the north shores of Loch Melfort, the estate rises from sea-level to 270m. There are a range of distinct habitats including grasslands, peatlands, semi-natural ancient woodland, newly planted native woodland & exotic forestry plantations. We also run several marine projects including a native oyster restoration project and a kelp farm.

We are seeking a highly motivated individual to join our team in a dynamic role, involving a variety of tasks across the estate. The ideal candidate will be able to collaborate effectively with the estate team, take the lead on terrestrial restoration and conservation initiatives and be able to produce regular written reports to the line manager.

Duties will include (but not limited to):

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and oversee the woodland creation project, including regular fence inspections, maintenance and collaboration with our forestry contractor.
• Lead day-to-day conservation efforts, providing onsite support to visiting students and researchers.
• Work closely with the estate team to trial new approaches that enhance and maximise biodiversity benefits.
• Manage budgets effectively, including oversight of external contractor fees.
• Collaborate with the stockperson and estate team to integrate cattle into the woodlands.
• Ensure compliance with the Woodland Carbon Code, ensuring the woodlands meet all required conditions.
• Network, collaborate and build bridges with similar minded organisations.

Skills and Experience:

• Proven experience in developing and delivering nature reserve work programmes.
• Experience managing and supervising volunteers and students.
• Proficiency in QGIS and Excel.
• Solid technical knowledge and understanding of wildlife conservation and reserve management methods.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships across various teams within an organisation.
• Self-motivated with a demonstrated ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to write clear and concise reports.
• Work according to the Health and Safety at work act.

We encourage applicants who do not meet every area of essential criteria to apply; your transferrable skills may still make you the best candidate!

We provide both formal and informal training opportunities, with continuous personal and professional development supported. Additionally, there are opportunities to visit and collaborate with external organisations on a variety of projects. We also offer the following:

• Flexible working hours
• Paid sick leave
• 34 days of holiday
• Life assurance policy
• Generous pension scheme

Starting salary: £34,000 – £39,000

For more information or to apply please email factor@kilchoanestate.co.uk with a cover letter and CV.

https://kilchoanmelforttrust.org/