Project Assistant - Red Squirrel Recovery Network
| Posting date: | 16 February 2026 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | Part time |
| Closing date: | 27 February 2026 |
| Location: | Cumbria, North West England |
| Remote working: | On-site only |
| Company: | Countryside Jobs Service |
| Job type: | Contract |
| Job reference: |
Summary
Contract length: Fixed term for 10 months
We have a very exciting and rewarding opportunity for an assistant to join us as part of the Red Squirrel Recovery Network Project.
This early career role is the perfect first step in a career in the conservation sector, as the role will include a generous training budget along with the opportunity to develop a range of useful skills and gain experience as part of a collaborative conservation project.
Our ideal candidate will have a passion for our local native red squirrels and the desire and commitment to embrace this unique and rewarding opportunity fully.
About the project
The Red Squirrel Recovery Network (RSRN) is a new project that aims to build on conservation efforts of the last 20 years and lay the foundations for species recovery. The RSRN is a shared ambition for red squirrels in Northern England and Southern Scotland and is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Working at a super-landscape scale, this significant investment in species conservation must achieve lasting change within five years so that the future of an iconic species is secured as part of a natural and functioning ecosystem. This will be supported by a well-connected and resilient network of volunteers within a wider network of engaged and aware local residents and visitors.
Purpose of the role
This early career role will primarily be based in the Workington, Whitehaven, and Cockermouth areas on the west coast of Cumbria, which has been identified as a priority area for recovery. The role will focus on supporting key engagement within this region, along with
• Assisting with the organisation of community events and activities
• Working with and supporting a team of Volunteers
• Attending meetings, conferences and events as a representative for the RSRN
• Contribute to project monitoring and evaluation
• Be involved with project communications and digital awareness, including through social media
In line with the requirements of the role, frequent travel will be necessary across Cumbria's west coast; access to a vehicle or reliable means of travel to these key areas is therefore an essential requirement.
Please note that an enhanced DBS check will be required for this role.
We have a very exciting and rewarding opportunity for an assistant to join us as part of the Red Squirrel Recovery Network Project.
This early career role is the perfect first step in a career in the conservation sector, as the role will include a generous training budget along with the opportunity to develop a range of useful skills and gain experience as part of a collaborative conservation project.
Our ideal candidate will have a passion for our local native red squirrels and the desire and commitment to embrace this unique and rewarding opportunity fully.
About the project
The Red Squirrel Recovery Network (RSRN) is a new project that aims to build on conservation efforts of the last 20 years and lay the foundations for species recovery. The RSRN is a shared ambition for red squirrels in Northern England and Southern Scotland and is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Working at a super-landscape scale, this significant investment in species conservation must achieve lasting change within five years so that the future of an iconic species is secured as part of a natural and functioning ecosystem. This will be supported by a well-connected and resilient network of volunteers within a wider network of engaged and aware local residents and visitors.
Purpose of the role
This early career role will primarily be based in the Workington, Whitehaven, and Cockermouth areas on the west coast of Cumbria, which has been identified as a priority area for recovery. The role will focus on supporting key engagement within this region, along with
• Assisting with the organisation of community events and activities
• Working with and supporting a team of Volunteers
• Attending meetings, conferences and events as a representative for the RSRN
• Contribute to project monitoring and evaluation
• Be involved with project communications and digital awareness, including through social media
In line with the requirements of the role, frequent travel will be necessary across Cumbria's west coast; access to a vehicle or reliable means of travel to these key areas is therefore an essential requirement.
Please note that an enhanced DBS check will be required for this role.