Purpose of the role

We are seeking an Conservation Education Officer to develop an education and learning programme for teachers, young people, and communities along the Greater Thames Estuary.

The overall aim of the ‘Sharks Connect’ project is to engage young people and communities along the Greater Thames Estuary (GTE) with marine conservation to improve management and aid recovery of socially, culturally, and ecologically important shark and ray species in the GTE. Young people will be an integral part of the project, directly leading marine conservation research to reveal new insights into the movements and habitat use of sharks and rays, which are key species for the natural heritage of the GTE.

At the end of the 12 month Development Phase, we will submit a Delivery Phase application for subsequent funding, with the potential for the position to be extended if funding is successfully awarded. This role is made possible by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, thanks to National Lottery players.

This is a 12 month fixed-term position, working 37.5 hours per week, supporting the development phase of the Sharks Connect the Thames project.

We are particularly interested in hearing from candidates with experience living and/or working in the focus area for this role, Essex and along the Greater Thames Estuary between Thurrock and Clacton.

Key Responsibilities

• Designing Impactful Learning Experiences
• Building Pathways into STEM Careers
• Community Engagement and Project Planning Support
• Data Collection and Impact Measurement
• Project Compliance and Reporting Support
• Youth-Led Conservation and Knowledge Sharing
• Partnership Development and Collaboration

About You

• Previous experience working in the education sector or experience in science communication with schools and/or community groups
• Experience in project planning and managing multi-stakeholder projects
• Educated to undergraduate degree level in biology, conservation, or related subject
• Previous experience working with the Heritage Fund or in developing education and community activity programmes
• Strong collaborative working skills and ability to manage competing priorities
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Office packages
• Proven understanding of how to evaluate and report the impact of learning activities
• Full UK driving licence and access to own vehicle

About Us

We’re [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal], an international conservation charity. Through our unrivalled animal experts in our two zoos (London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo), the work of our pioneering scientists, our dedicated conservationists, our purpose is to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wild animals going extinct.

What We Offer

• Purpose driven work
• Pension scheme with up to 12% contributory pension
• Flexible working
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Access to staff Equality Networks
• Wellbeing programme with Employee Assistance Programme
• Life assurance
• Complimentary tickets to zoos
• Cycle2Work scheme
• Season ticket loan
• Enhanced family friendly policies

Additional Information

This role is subject to standard pre-employment checks, including confirmation of your right to work in the UK and an enhanced DBS check with Child Barring. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

[Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] recognises that conservation is one of the least diverse sectors, and we actively encourage applications from candidates who identify as part of underrepresented communities.

Advertising End Date: 19 May 2026. All Locations: Field Based. Salary: £34,070.40 per annum. Vacancy Type: Fixed Term. Workplace type: Hybrid. Contract length: 12 months.

Contact recruitment team at [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal].