Project and Volunteer Engagement Officer (Rugby River Champions)

Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range £33,002 to £35,608 with potential progression once in post to £39,906

Hours: Part Time (22.5 hours per week)

Contract Type: Fixed Term contract up to January 2028

Role Summary

The Project and Volunteer Engagement Officer will play a central role in launching and managing the new Rugby River Champions, a citizen science initiative that aims to capture river health while educating and upskilling local communities. Working closely with University of Birmingham staff and drawing on the established Birmingham River Champions model, the postholder will receive tailored training before supporting delivery in the Rugby area.

The role involves engaging local volunteer networks, providing training in ecological and water-chemistry monitoring techniques, and offering ongoing support and guidance for monitoring activities. The Officer will maintain regular communication with volunteers through email, social media updates and newsletters, as well as organising community events that celebrate achievements. The successful candidate will also support project reporting by preparing progress documents, assisting with basic analysis of citizen science data, and ensuring timely dissemination of project updates to project partners. Administrative responsibilities include acting as a point of contact for procurement and contracts, supporting budget monitoring and maintaining volunteer and citizen science records.

The postholder will be expected to work in the Rugby area, although flexibility will be required and some time will also be spent on university campus, particularly during the earlier stages of the role. 

Person Specification

The successful candidate will hold a degree or equivalent experience and have substantial practical experience in project administration or coordination. They will bring a strong track record of working with volunteers, community groups or citizen science initiatives. The postholder will possess excellent organisational skills and the ability to prioritise work effectively. Strong communication and interpersonal competences are essential, enabling the postholder to train, motivate and support volunteers alongside producing clear outreach materials.

The role requires confidence with IT systems, particularly MS Office, and competence in handling and interpreting basic data. Experience using social media for community engagement, supporting budget monitoring, and working outdoors is important.

Knowledge of freshwater ecology, water-quality monitoring, or social science methods would be advantageous. 

A full UK driving licence (desirable)

The postholder will adopt a flexible and adaptable approach to work, including occasional evening or weekend commitments for community events.

Informal enquiries can be made to Dr James C. White (j.c.white.1@bham.ac.uk) 

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the 'Apply' button above.

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