Environmental Social Scientist 1 day per weekThe Rivers Trust is a leading environmental charity in Great Britain and on the island of Ireland, and the umbrella body of The Rivers Trust movement which comprises over 60 independent local charities. Our vision is for wild, healthy, natural rivers, valued by all. We are at a critical point in our history as we expand to deliver projects to protect and replenish this important part of the natural environment, and our research and expertise is now needed more urgently than ever as water supply and quality move up the public agenda.The island of Ireland is the fastest-growing area of the rivers trust movement, and as part of what is a major team expansion, we are looking for a motivated and highly organised person to join our team and fill a newly-created Environmental Social Scientist role.We have recently secured funding for an EU-funded, multi-partner, Interreg Europe Project called RiWET. The project focuses on public-social-private partnerships to increase the contribution of local communities in restoration, management and stewardship of rivers and wetlands to answer questions like: Can municipalities, regions and public agencies restore river and peatland areas in a more efficient and less costly way by engaging communities, civic organisations and other landowners? What are the best tools and strategies for these partnerships?Introductory video to the project can be viewed here.In the Interreg Europe programme, policy instruments are improved through a collaborative and iterative process involving regional and local governments. The primary goal is to enhance the effectiveness of policies related to regional development by sharing knowledge and best practices across Europe.The Rivers Trust (TRT) has partnered up with the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communication (DECC) to improve Ireland’s Climate Action and Environment Policy by contributing to the rehabilitation of peatlands, specifically in the high-impact area of ‘changing our land use’ using our community-based approach and interregional learnings.This is a part-time (0.2FTE) role, equivalent to an average of one day per week. The salary range for this role, based on experience, is €8,545 – €9,969 (equivalent to €42,727 - €49,847, full-time).We offer 25 days holiday pro rata (rising to 28 days) plus statutory holiday days.In addition to salary, we also offer a 9% employer pension contribution (subject to 6% employee contribution) and life assurance.The main duties and responsibilities are: Management Plan and Strategy Development: Work on the management plan and strategy to improve the targeted policy instrument (Ireland’s Climate Action and Environment Policy), leveraging insights from ‘Experience of Exchange’ partner meetings, workshops, and exchanges with the Associated Policy Authority. Stakeholder Collaboration: Guide the collaboration of the ‘high stakeholder’ working group, which includes representatives from relevant state departments involved in the implementation of Ireland’s Climate Action Plan, particularly focusing on the high-impact area of land use change related to peatland rehabilitation. Organisation of regular wider stakeholder meetings and leading on the communication with all stakeholders. Monitoring and Reporting: Develop and implement a system for monitoring the progress of policy improvements and regularly report on the outcomes and impacts to relevant stakeholders and authorities. Societal Research: Conduct societal research to understand the social dynamics, attitudes, and behaviours of private peatland owners. Use this research to inform the policy improvement for engaging and motivating landowners to participate in peatland rehabilitation efforts. Application of suitable approaches & good practices review: Use the learning from the ‘Experience of Exchange’ workshops, application of the Comparable Cooperation Framework & community-based approach, Theory of Practice for the development of the policy instrument improvement. Knowledge, skills, experience, and personal qualities: Essential Knowledge of environmental policies in relation to land use & peatlands, regulatory frameworks, and the policy-making processes. This includes understanding how policies can be influenced and implemented.Insight into the socio-economic dynamics of land use, including the motivations and barriers for private landowners in restoring peatlands. Proven ability of being able to persuade and influence a wide range of people.Excellent communication skills and ability to build relationships at all levels, both internally and externally.Strong time management, organisational skills and attention to detail. Ability to resolve complex issues quickly and efficiently, work as part of a team and on own initiative.Inquisitive and willing to learn new skills.An understanding or awareness of the issues surrounding climate change, biodiversity loss and relationship to restoration of peatlands and other habitats. Desirable Experience in contributing to or leading policy development initiatives, particularly those related to environmental conservation and land use management.Experience in community engagement and outreach programmes, particularly those aimed at promoting sustainable land management practices among private landowners. Experience in data collection and analysis related to peatland policy, including environmental, social, and economic data. Qualifications/Education Minimum Qualification Level: FETAC/QQI Level 8 or equivalent. Fields of Study: Environmental Science, Ecology, or Social Sciences. Experience: Minimum of two years’ post-qualification experience relevant to the role. Remote Working & Work Culture & Other Requirements Must be available to travel both nationally and internationally as required by the role. It is essential that you have access to secure and private accommodation suitable for working for home, and a reliable broadband connection. You must be based in the Republic of Ireland (ROI) and have the permission to work in ROI. You must be comfortable with working alone and with minimal supervision. Everyone who works for us is expected to contribute to a respectful and inclusive working culture and follow our policies and procedures including Health & Safety, EDI, Cybersecurity and GDPR.If you have any questions which will help you decide to apply and aren't answered on our website, please get in touch with Constanze.otooletheriverstrust.org and she'll get back to you. Please don't use this email address to apply as we can only accept applications made through this system. Closing date: Midday Thursday 16th January 2025 Interviews: W/C 27th January 2025