At Earthwatch Europe, we are working hard to inspire community led action to improve freshwater quality. We work with community groups, showing them how to test freshwater for nitrates, phosphates and turbidity. Gathering data in these community groups is key to monitoring and collecting this long-term data on the state of our rivers and lakes so we can then use it to push for improvements. In this role, you will be working in a small team, to engage with the local community groups and partnerships. The primary project you will focus on is the Evenlode Catchment Partnership within the Water Restoration Fund project. You will need experience of working with community members or organisations to enable change, and have a working knowledge of water quality monitoring based on citizen science. ABOUT EARTHWATCH Earthwatch is an environmental charity with science at its heart. Our mission is to live within our means and in balance with nature. We do this by connecting people with the natural world, monitoring the health of our natural resources and informing the actions that will have the greatest positive impact. www.earthwatch.org.uk OUR VALUES We are driven by people We always show humanity in our bid to save humanity. As colleagues, we treat each other with genuine warmth and respect. In a polarised world, we’re proud to build a friendly movement of local groups, schools, scientists and businesses. Everyone’s voice is welcome and valued. We are powered by science Powered by science, it’s science that makes us powerful. We champion findings collected by people at the grassroots to spark change in our neighbourhoods and at the highest levels of government. We’re committed to debate, openness, honesty, listening and always learning. We connect with nature Disconnection from nature is at the heart of ecological crisis. Connection is a driving force for change. So let’s get our boots – and our hearts – muddy. With smiles on our faces, we inspire people to get out into nature, have fun, discover what we all stand to lose, and take action. We fight for our planet The environmental crisis is relentless. We, too, never give up. Each day we fight for our fragile earth, not through protest, but practical science. From planting tiny forests to protecting the world’s freshwater habitats, our evidence-based solutions are the seeds of our planet’s survival. ROLE PURPOSE To support and inspire communities to take meaningful action in monitoring and improving freshwater quality and habitats. The postholder will be responsible for engaging, connecting, and training local groups, while providing hands-on support to ensure the success and long-term impact of community-led projects. A major focus will be working with one of our largest community groups, in the Evenlode catchment, managing a dedicated network of volunteers. Responsibilities will include organising events and training sessions, coordinating monitoring activities, handling logistics, and sustaining the motivation of long-standing volunteers. Within the Evenlode Catchment Partnership project, there is also a strong emphasis on advocacy and campaigning. The postholder will contribute to this work, with the opportunity to take a lead on water quality advocacy if desired. RESPONSIBILITIES Coordinate volunteers within the Evenlode Catchment Partnership – build and maintain positive relationships Organise training sessions, recruitment events, engagement workshops and social events, and undertake related record-keeping/administration When confident in the FreshWater Watch and other citizen science methodologies, deliver training in-person or online, and participate in monitoring Support the development of communications/campaigns, including preparing content for social media and/or press Support engagement of community groups across the FreshWater Watch programme – across the UK and internationally Support the Freshwater team in developing engagement plans Help community leaders create action plans, identify activities, and facilitate peer support. Support monitoring, reporting and evaluation, including internal and external reports. Assist with fundraising and communications, including case studies and sharing outcomes. PERSON SPECIFICATION Experience & knowledge (could be paid, voluntary, or personal experience) Experience of working with community members/organisations to enable change. (essential) Knowledge of water quality and challenges in the UK Experience of developing/supporting community projects and events Working knowledge of citizen science Familiarity with health & safety and equalities legislation Personal qualities Approachable, able to build trust and rapport with diverse audiences Commitment to co-developing local actions and supporting community-led water quality improvements Alignment with Earthwatch’s mission and values. Willing and able to be within the Evenlode catchment for at least 1 day per week (essential) Skills Strong communication (written and verbal) Ability to work within a small team and independently. Excellent organisational skills and ability to meet deadlines. Flexible working across times and locations to deliver outcomes. OTHER INFORMATION Enhanced DBS check required for working with schools/young people/vulnerable adults. Some evening, weekend, and lone working required. Own vehicle and driving licence required. Experience/knowledge of FreshWater Watch, or other freshwater citizen science methods, is desirable but is not a pre-requisite. Earthwatch is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds. APPLICATION NOTE If you don’t meet every single requirement, Earthwatch still encourages you to apply — skills and experience that you have which are not listed may be relevant. Contact: Caroline Shepherd via uk.hr@earthwatch.org.uk