Trees Outside Woodlands (TOWs) Projects Officer

Trees Outside Woodland (TOWs) Projects Officer

JOB TITLE Trees Outside Woodlands (TOWs) Projects Officer

BASED The Tree Council HQ in Canada Water, London SE16 with flexible working from home but with easy connections to the whole of England (the majority of the team is remote working across the UK). To include some days out across the UK with occasional overnight stays.

SALARY £32,000 - £35,000 per annum

PENSION 7% contribution by The Tree Council

TERMS Full-time, fixed-term role to March 2028 (with possibility of extension dependent upon funding). Starting asap, with 25 days annual leave, plus Public Holidays and the period between Christmas and the New Year

REPORTING TO Science & Action Research Manager

INTERNAL LIAISON Wider S&R Team, Community Grants Team, Comms Team

EXTERNAL LIAISON Research Partners: Defra, Forest Research, Fera Science, RBG Kew Variety of conservation NGOs, landholders, university partners and other stakeholders

It is a vital moment for the environment as we face the dual nature and climate crises and the world has become increasingly aware of the important role ancient trees and hedgerows play in helping support biodiversity and tackle climate change.

Looking after the nation's precious ancient and veteran trees (England has more ancient native oaks than the rest of Europe combined) and Inspiring new hedgerow planting are key elements to help safeguard our heritage and a green future.

Recognising this, The Tree Council's Science & Research (S&R) team is engaged in two new Defra-funded research projects:

• Working with specialists in the arboricultural industry, stakeholder groups and researchers to build evidence and review and improve understanding of the threats to ancient and veteran trees - identifying and sharing how to protect and manage them better.

• Contributing expert input to co-design recommendations for hedgerow policy and practice, with a focus on non-agricultural hedgerow incentive trials.

To help deliver this research, we are recruiting a new Trees Outside Woodlands (TOWs) Projects Officer to join our national charity team.

The Officer will support the Science and Research Team to deliver high-quality action research in the Trees Outside Woodlands space, with a focus on research relating to hedgerows and ancient and veteran tree conservation and protection. The role will involve carrying out a range of qualitative research methods, coordinating and delivering stakeholder engagement and co-design activities,

This role is ideal for someone with knowledge of, and practical experience in, applying qualitative research methods and with a degree-level qualification in environmental science, social science or a related discipline. They will have strong organisational skills and a good understanding of rural landscapes, ecosystems and the role of trees and hedgerows within them. Good at building relationships, they will have experience of producing academic, technical or research-based reports to high standards.

We are looking for someone who is used to being hands-on in a small team, in a fast-paced environment. Communication, a warm and enthusiastic attitude and attention to detail are key. Above all, you should be keen to use your strong research qualitative research skills to support The Tree Council's S&R Team to deliver their objectives.

You will be based at our nine-desk office, in a Grade 2 listed building at Canada Water in East London, with considerable flexibility for working from home. The role will include regular travel across the UK, with occasional overnight stays.

The role is varied, giving the post-holder opportunity for desk-based work and fieldwork, with additional support to our Community Grants Programme team at times of high pressure and occasional help at corporate volunteering days.

YOUR APPLICATION

More details can be found in the supporting document uploaded to the Guardian or on The Tree Council's website

If you wish to apply, please provide a CV (maximum 2 pages A4) and cover letter (maximum 2 sides A4) outlining your experience, skills and personal attributes that demonstrate your ability to perform this role.

Please submit your application by midnight on Sunday 6 September 2026. Interviews will be held in the first two weeks of September. The contract will begin in September/October (subject to availability and references).

Acceptable Use - Artificial Intelligence (AI) We understand that candidates may choose to use AI tools to support their job applications - for example, to help structure or edit written responses. We welcome the use of AI in this way, particularly where it helps improve accessibility, such as for neurodivergent applicants. However, personal writing can often convey enthusiasm, energy and character better than AI so please bear this in mind when writing your letter. During interviews, candidates will be expected to respond independently without the use of AI tools.

Pre-employment checks for the successful candidate will include:

• DBS check

• Two professional references

• Verification of 'Right to Work in the UK'

The Tree Council is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from everyone regardless of age, disability, gender, ethnicity, religion and sexual orientation.