Help protect Wales’s whispering bat
BCT is recruiting a Project Officer to lead Sibrydion y Coedwigoedd – Whispers of the Woodlands, a Wales-wide project focused on the conservation of the brown long-eared bat — affectionately known as the whispering bat.
Working closely with volunteers, land managers, communities and partner organisations, you will help improve the management and connectivity of protected woodland habitats, standardise tree-roost surveying, enhance data collection and inspire more people to connect with their local wildlife.
About the role
This is a home-based role; applicants must be based in Wales and be able to travel regularly across the country. Occasional short trips outside Wales may also be required (e.g. meeting colleagues in London).
The Project Officer will:
- Launch and promote the project across Wales
- Coordinate woodland and roost survey activity with bat groups, volunteers and land managers
- Oversee the transition of the Bat Tree Habitat Key database onto an ecological data collection app, to improve data collection in the field, data verification and storage processes, and data accessibility for users.
- Support standardised recording and data sharing through the new Bat Tree Habitat Key app
- Recruit, train and support volunteers
- Develop and deliver communication and engagement plans, including activities with disadvantaged communities
- Lead community involvement in preparation for and celebration of the 2027 Year of the Whispering Bat
- Share findings with stakeholders, including Natural Resources Wales
- Manage budgets, tracking, reporting, steering group coordination and risk management
- Have regular contact with bat groups and a wide range of external partners including Natural Resources Wales, National Trust, Woodland Trust, Penllergare Trust and local community organisations.
About You
- Experience managing conservation or environmental projects
- Experience working with volunteers and delivering training or public engagement
- Strong organisational and communication skills
- Knowledge of bat ecology or woodland conservation (or willingness to learn)
- A full driving licence and access to suitable transport are essential.