Assistant Farm Environment Adviser Position at FWAG SW: A Key Role in Environmental Change

FWAG SW (Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group South West) is dedicated to fostering environmental improvements across the farmed landscape. We collaborate closely with farmers and landowners to drive meaningful change in land management practices. By integrating knowledge of farming systems, land management, and the intricacies of soil, water, and nutrient management, we aim to promote positive environmental changes in the broader landscape.

Our Mission

At FWAG SW, our focus lies in assisting farm businesses in effectively managing their natural capital assets. These assets include:

• Soil
• Water
• Biodiversity
• Carbon

Our advisers work diligently to translate complex environmental concepts into accessible, practical advice for farmers. We help navigate government policies, environmental incentives, regulations, and emerging markets related to sustainability.

Position Overview: Assistant Farm Environment Adviser

We are excited to announce an opening for the Assistant Farm Environment Adviser position, specifically covering the beautiful county of Devon. This role is essential for providing comprehensive support to our existing team.

Key Responsibilities

As an Assistant Farm Environment Adviser, your responsibilities will include:

• Environmental Advice: Assisting in delivering independent, professional environmental guidance to farmers, landowners, and land managers.
• Support on Chargeable Work: Collaborating with Farm Environment Advisers on various tasks, such as:
  • Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) applications
  • Hedge assessments
  • Habitat surveys
• Project Work: Involvement in ongoing projects, which currently include:
  • Implementing natural flood management features on farms
  • Conducting Biodiversity Net Gain surveys
  • Advising on compliance with regulations like SSAFO (Silage, Slurry, and Agricultural Fuel Oil) and the Farming Rules for Water
• Communication: Liaising with farmers and partners through various channels—phone, email, and online platforms (like Zoom)—to promote changes in land management practices that minimize environmental impacts.
• Report Production: Generating outputs for farmers and project partners, including:
  • Advice reports
  • GIS mapping
• Event Organization: Assisting in the planning and execution of events related to our initiatives.
• Administration and Data Management: Supporting the overall administration and data management needs of FWAG SW.
• Development Support: Contributing to the growth and advancement of FWAG South West’s initiatives.

Who Should Apply?

We are seeking motivated individuals who are eager to build a career in the farm environment and land management sector.

Essential Qualifications

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail.
• A foundational understanding of farming systems and environmental issues.

What We Offer

In return for your commitment, we provide:

• Training and Development: Opportunities for both external and internal training, with the potential for rapid career progression based on meeting specific criteria.
• Inclusive Environment: We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and abilities who meet our essential criteria. Our assessment process focuses solely on your suitability for the role, ensuring an open and inclusive hiring practice.

Salary and Benefits

• Starting Salary: £24,610 per annum, with opportunities for rapid progression based on training and development criteria.
• Work Schedule: Full-time position, with part-time applications (minimum of 4 days per week) also considered.

Additional Benefits

• Holiday:
  • 25 days of annual leave, increasing by one day per year up to a maximum of 30 days, plus statutory holidays.
• Flexible Working: Options for flexible working arrangements and Time Off In Lieu (TOIL).
• Training Program: Access to a comprehensive in-house training program, learning from experienced advisers and farmers.
• Further Qualifications: Full support to pursue additional training and qualifications.
• Pension Plan: Company pension scheme after three months of employment.
• Wellbeing Scheme: A dedicated staff wellbeing initiative.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Available subject to eligibility.
• Outdoor Clothing Allowance: A generous allowance for outdoor clothing, as well as branded clothing options.

Work Location

The primary focus of this role will be Devon, allowing for flexible work arrangements largely from home, with access to office bases in Exeter and Wellington.

Application Procedure

If you are excited about the opportunity to make a difference in environmental management and meet the qualifications outlined, we encourage you to apply.

How to Apply

• Submit Your Application: Please send your CV and a covering letter that highlights your suitability for the role to HR@fwagsw.org.uk.
• Application Acknowledgment: You will receive an email confirming receipt of your application.

Important Dates

• Application Closing Date: Monday, 14th October 2024, at 18:00 hours.
• Early Closure: Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications. Therefore, we encourage you to submit your application as early as possible.

Conclusion

Joining FWAG SW as an Assistant Farm Environment Adviser offers a unique opportunity to contribute to significant environmental improvements in the farming landscape. If you are passionate about sustainability and eager to work with farmers and landowners to promote best practices, we want to hear from you! Your journey toward a rewarding career in environmental consultancy begins here.