Conservation is a broad all encompassing term, however countryside and nature both sit well with conservation and conservation is often an integral part of many jobs within the countryside sector.

Countryside conservation is ensuring that the landscape, ecosystem and habitats are in a good condition and managed sympathetically.

Wildlife conservation looks more specifically at protecting and promoting good management for healthy populations of animals, from small oil beetles to large furry Scottish wildcats.

Nature conservation is a combination of both countryside and wildlife conservation.

Jobs and employment

Typical jobs include Countryside Officer, Reserves Officer, Wildlife and Conservation Officer, Nature Conservation Worker, Conservation and Policy Officer, Conservation Advisory Officer. Many ecology roles are conservation based either in practical terms or advice and policy provision.

See current countryside conservation vacancies advertised with CJS here.

See current wildlife conservation vacancies advertised with CJS here.

See current nature conservation (ecology) vacancies advertised with CJS here.

To gain the experience required volunteering is frequently a good start.

See current countryside conservation volunteering opportunities advertised with CJS here.

See current wildlife conservation volunteering opportunities advertised with CJS here.

See current nature conservation (ecology) volunteering opportunities advertised with CJS here.

Skills, training and CPD.

There are many different skills and qualifications required for conservation work ranging from practical land management to publicity and promotion ensuring the project aims are heard.

Practical skills frequently requested include:

For wildlife posts specific training for the species involved these could include

Office and admin skills often required include:

For Countryside conservation a qualification in countryside management is usually a prerequisite.

For Wildlife conservation a zoology based qualification is usually needed.

An ecology qualification covers both aspects.