Overview

Are you ready to make a lasting impact on some of Wales' most iconic natural landscapes? We are looking for a passionate and experienced Senior Land Management Officer to lead sustainable land management across the breath-taking Cambrian Mountains, focusing on valued National Nature Reserves including Cors Caron, Coed Rheidol and Rhos Llawr Cwrt. This is a diverse and hands-on role where no two days are the same, ideal for someone who thrives in a dynamic outdoor environment and is motivated by making a real difference for nature.

You will take responsibility for ecological planning, conservation delivery and legal compliance across protected sites. On the Welsh Government Woodland Estate, you’ll work closely with the Forest Operations team, offering expert advice on managing sensitive habitats, historic features and key species. Your work will help ensure that nature is at the heart of sustainable land use decisions.

From carrying out tree safety surveys along public highways to advising on conservation constraints for forestry work, you’ll combine strategic thinking with practical action. You’ll oversee contractors, collaborate with landowners and local communities, and play a central role in shaping how landscapes are managed for biodiversity, resilience and public benefit. This is a fantastic opportunity for a skilled ecologist or land manager stepping into a leadership role.

We support flexible working. You will be contracted to an NRW office within the place base/location above with a suitable hybrid pattern agreed on appointment. Any regular face-to-face meetings or training will be planned in advance. This role will require travel to Tregaron. For informal enquiries, please contact Paul Dann at Paul.dann@cyfoethnaturiolcymru.gov.uk. Interviews will be conducted via Microsoft Teams. DBS checks apply, and appointments are normally made within 4 to 8 weeks of the closing date.

What You Will Do

• Be the technical lead in the development of the team and submit proposals for business planning. Provide technical support for wider work plans.
• Where appropriate act as NRW lead for specific technical issues.
• Participate in NRW technical/strategic groups or represent NRW on external forums.
• Interact with other specialists in NRW to promote consistent industry best practice.
• Undertake health and safety duties and responsibilities appropriate to the post.
• Be committed to Natural Resources Wales Equal Opportunities and Diversity Policy, and to applying it within the responsibilities of the post.
• Be committed to your own development through the effective use of your personal development plan (known as Sgwrs).
• Any other reasonable duties requested commensurate with the grade of this role.

Your Qualifications, Experience, Knowledge And Skills

• Experience of working across a wide range of land management disciplines.
• Extensive knowledge and experience of conservation management, designated sites, and all aspects of forest practice, including land liabilities.
• Knowledge of sustainable forest management, UKWAS and forest certification schemes.
• Coaching and mentoring skills.
• Experience of community liaison and public engagement activities.
• Ability to communicate effectively with regulated business and the public, explaining complex issues and gaining support by influencing.

Welsh Language Level Requirements

• Essential: A1 - Entry level
• Desirable: C1 - Proficiency level

Please note: if you do not meet the A1 requirement, NRW offers learning options and staff support to help you meet minimal requirements during employment.

Benefits

• Civil Service Pension Scheme offering employer contributions of 28.97% (internal staff may remain in their current pension scheme)
• 28 days annual leave, rising to 33 days
• Generous leave entitlements for life needs
• Commitment to professional development
• Health and wellbeing benefits and support
• Weekly wellbeing hour to use as you choose

See full details for all the employee benefits. We are committed to equal opportunities and guarantee interviews for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria. We welcome applications from a diverse range of backgrounds and offer bilingual support where possible.

About Us

You'll be the go-to expert for your local area, working closely with a team of experienced technical officers and a supportive team leader to deliver tangible, on-the-ground results that contribute directly to national environmental priorities. If you thrive in the outdoors, enjoy building strong relationships with landowners and stakeholders, and have a solid understanding of how to balance nature conservation with practical land management, this could be the ideal next step in your career. You’ll have autonomy to shape outcomes in your patch, backed by a knowledgeable team, and the satisfaction of contributing to landscapes, wildlife, and communities.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Management and Manufacturing