The Bristol Avon catchment has a large population of wild beavers, a result of unlicensed release(s), which we think took place sometime around 2020. In 2022, a Natural England survey identified 13 separate territories, and a possible population of 50 adult beavers across the area. Unlike managed beaver enclosures and licensed wild releases (which were only permitted since Feb 2025), our beaver population has been growing without structured management or support. 

In April 2025 Avon Wildlife Trust launched a vital new project – the Beaver Advice and Support Team (Bristol Avon & Somerset Frome). We’re working across the region to upskill and inform a range of stakeholders – from Farm Advisors, Ecologists and Planning Authorities to farmers, landowners and land managers – about living alongside the beaver population to ensure they thrive. 

We are looking for someone to join this new Beaver Advice and Support team, and support the wider strategic Beaver Advisory Group. You will be tasked with collecting, analysing and presenting high quality data on the wild beaver populations living across our river catchments. In addition, you will deliver on-the-ground support and advice to landowners, farmers and communities living and working alongside beavers, resulting in improved knowledge, support and acceptance of beavers at a local, grassroots level.  

Avon Wildlife Trust is a charity dedicated to working with local people for local wildlife, covering the West of England region (former county of Avon). It is supported by more than 17,500 members, manages over 30 nature reserves and is one of 46 Wildlife Trusts in the UK. We want to see nature restored on a grand scale across the Avon region, with one in four people taking action for wildlife.

The Wildlife Trusts value diversity. We are committed to creating a movement that recognises and truly values individual differences and identities. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures. 

Part time, 22.5 hours per week ( 3 days ideally between Mon - Thurs)

Fixed-term until 30th September 2026

Contact Details and How to Apply

If you are interested in applying, please download the Job Description, Application Form and Equality and Diversity monitoring at the bottom of this page. Before proceeding to 'Apply Now', fill in your application form and Equality and Diversity monitoring.

Please fill out the application form paying particular attention to the details of your relevant experience, knowledge and skills, which is used for shortlisting against the person specification. It is best not to assume prior knowledge and higher scoring is more likely if you explain carefully why you meet the person specification in the Job Description.

When you click 'Apply Now' you will be asked to attach your completed documents via our HR portal as part of the submission process. The portal will stay open for 24 hours to allow you to upload your documents. If the portal has closed, please email your documents to HR@avonwildlifetrust.org.uk

Apply Now

To apply by post, please send applications marked confidential to HR, Avon Wildlife Trust, 17 Great George Street, Bristol BS1 5QT to arrive by the closing date.

Closing date: 9.00am Monday 4th August 2025

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview at Folly Farm on 19th or 20th August 2025.

Leading candidates may then be asked to attend a second interview on 26th August 2025.

If you would like to discuss this role or have any questions, please email hr@avonwildlifetrust.org.uk and a conversation can be arranged.

For equal opportunities purposes, we are unable to accept only CVs.

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No agencies please.

Charity No. 280422

Registered Charity 280422