Ecology Officer - Bluebell Railway

As one of the first preserved heritage lines in the country, we boast one of the finest collections of vintage steam locomotives and carriages, many of which were preserved directly from service on British Railways. Our historic line commenced services in August 1960 and today runs steam trains between Sheffield Park and East Grinstead, with stops at Horsted Keynes and Kingscote.

About this opportunity

The Bluebell Railway wishes to engage a volunteer Ecology Officer to advise the railway on ecological matters. This exciting opportunity is a new role to the railway as we seek to enhance our management of our land for the benefit of future generations.

The railway has 11 miles of track bed, which includes grasslands, woodlands, tunnels, water courses, embankments and cuttings, much of which is out of bounds to the public and thus largely undisturbed, apart from passing trains.

The hours would be flexible but estimated to be around one day a week.

Outputs from the role will be:

• Create a database of flora and fauna within our boundary.
• Create a strategic plan to encourage biodiversity.
• Work on habitat management.
• Advise the railway on matters arising from the flora and fauna.
• Identify and apply for any grants that may apply to encourage environmental and biodiversity initiatives.
• Produce monthly or quarterly reports as required.
• Make the Infrastructure Director lots of tea.

Skills required

• An enthusiasm and fascination for animals and plants.
• The ability to work in mud and get no thanks for it.
• Experience in undertaking field work.
• Self-motivated, energy and drive.
• A driving licence.
• Excellent written and presentational communication skills.
• Teamwork and project management skills.
• The capacity to identify different species appropriate to the role.

The ideal candidate

• Someone with many years of experience, but wishing to step off the corporate ladder
• Someone with many years' experience, but wishing to take on a new challenge
• A newly retired ecologist looking to keep their hand in.

For more information

For more information please either come in and see us at Wealden Volunteering, or call us on , or email us at