We have an exciting new opportunity for you to join the team at North Wales Rivers Trust.

Vacancy for:  Head of Freshwater Science

Position: Head of Freshwater Science

Location: North Wales

Organisation: North Wales Rivers Trust

About Us: North Wales Rivers Trust is a dynamic and forward-thinking environmental organisation committed to the conservation and sustainable management of aquatic species and their habitats. We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled individual to join our team as the Head of Science and Aquatic Species.

Key Responsibilities: As the Head of Science for freshwater species, you will play a pivotal role in the senior management team. You will develop, lead and deliver scientific outcomes to support the sustainable use of ecosystem resources and to provide scientific advice for freshwater management across all ecosystems. This will involve water quality, habitat management and restoration projects backed by science and research.

You will be the key lead and manage the Torgoch project and also oversee all scientific data and modeling activities across our portfolio. Your responsibilities will include:

• Project Management: Lead the Torgoch project, ensuring its successful execution, adherence to timelines, and achievement of objectives.

• Scientific Oversight: Oversee all scientific data collection, analysis, and modeling activities related to our projects, ensuring accuracy and relevance.

• Team Leadership: Manage a team of dedicated scientists and restoration officers, providing guidance, support, and fostering a culture of scientific excellence.

• Floating Wetland Program: Play a pivotal role in the science behind our exciting floating wetland program, contributing to its development, implementation, and demonstrable success.

• Salmon and Sewin Project: Lead, develop and contribute to our efforts to conserve migratory fish.

• Build on our scientific modeling surveys and impact reports demonstrating the benefit of all projects for aquatic species based on science.

• Identify projects to conserve and protect aquatic species and seek appropriate funding.

• River Restoration: Contribute to all river restoration projects to ensure they are cost-effective and maximise their impact by leveraging scientific data and expertise. Demonstrate the beneficial impact of each project for freshwater species based on science and research.

Qualifications:

• Experienced Freshwater scientist with a PhD in freshwater sciences and a track-record of leading applied and impactful innovative research projects that address priority issues in freshwater science  

• Proven experience in project management and scientific research.

• A minimum of 2-3 years in the field. Evidence of working in a senior position. 

• Strong leadership and team management skills.

Desirable:

• Excellent data analysis and modeling capabilities.

• Fluent in Welsh - Minimum level 1 Welsh Language Level requirement.

• Excellent and demonstrable scientific report writing skills.

• Passion for freshwater species conservation and environmental sustainability.

• Strategic thinker and leader, able to convey information clearly and concisely and translate strategy into actionable plans which deliver against organisational objectives

• Demonstrable knowledge of water quality challenges, key legislation and policy instruments (e.g. Water Framework Directive, UN Sustainable Development Goals) with a strong network among water policy and practice stakeholders in the UK and Wales. Desirable- a proven track-record of stakeholder engagement and policy influencing.

• Fisheries Science: Demonstrate excellent scientific understanding, with a preference for candidates holding a qualification in fisheries science. It would be desirable if you have an understanding of the Eryri Torgoch.

• Experience in temporal and spatial data analysis and an understanding of GIS

• Flexible, self-motivated and goal-oriented, office and team working experience.

Why Join Us: This role offers a unique and exciting opportunity to make a significant impact on freshwater species conservation. You will be at the forefront of cutting-edge projects. As a member of our dynamic team, you will contribute to a healthier environment for all aquatic species.

How to Apply: If you are passionate about the conservation of freshwater habitats and fish, have the required qualifications and skills, and are eager to take on a leadership role in our organisation, we invite you to apply by September 25th 2023. Please submit your CV, a cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications, and references to info@northwalesriverstrust.org.

Application Deadline: 12pm on September 25th 2023. We welcome any applivstions in both Welsh and English.

Project start date: End of October 2023.

Note: We are an equal-opportunity employer and welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

Join us in our mission to protect and conserve aquatic species and their habitats. Make a meaningful difference by leading our scientific efforts, contributing to river restoration projects, and ensuring that our environmental initiatives are backed by the best available data and expertise.