Seasonal wardens are being recruited to work across the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area in 2027, in the partnership's twelfth cohort of seasonal wardens. The roles are fixed-term appointments of up to seven months, full time at 37 hours a week, with part-time options available. Some weekend, early-morning and evening work is involved.

What the role involves

Wardens will work with the organisations that manage the heaths, its wildlife and its visitors. The work includes training from surveyors who study ground-nesting birds, supporting the #BeWildfireAware campaign alongside the Fire & Rescue Service, hosting pop-up events about local wildlife, and playing a key role in Heath Week 2027. The role also involves office work and a significant element of lone working, in a variety of weathers.

Pay and requirements

The starting salary is £28,910 a year. The location is flexible, but wardens must be able to travel to the Thames Basin Heaths area daily, with a current, full driving licence and daily access to a vehicle. The partnership notes the work involves engaging directly with the public and may include potentially confrontational situations, while stressing that staff safety and wellbeing are of paramount importance. Past wardens have gone on to careers in Natural England and other conservation bodies.

How to apply

Applications close at 11:55pm on Monday 16 November 2026, which is still open at the time of writing. Candidates should apply online through the Civil Service Jobs listing linked from the Thames Basin Heaths Partnership page, Seasonal Warden, Ref 6885, and check that listing for the full job description and eligibility details before applying. No payment is mentioned as part of applying, and applicants should only use the official route above.

Sources: Thames Basin Heaths Partnership, 2 November 2026; Civil Service Jobs listing Ref 6885 via that page.