Site Assistant

Join us in restoring rivers and creating healthier environments!
This is an exciting entry-level role in the environmental sector, offering a rare opportunity to gain hands-on experience delivering river restoration and habitat enhancement projects. You’ll work within our Restoring Rivers and Catchments (RRC) Team, supporting projects from design to delivery and making a real difference on the ground.

What you’ll do:

• Work on construction sites implementing projects that restore rivers and improve biodiversity.
• Tasks include removing weirs, installing fish passage easements, creating wetlands, digging ponds and scrapes, planting hedgerows, and delivering large-scale habitat enhancements.
• Assist the Site Manager with preparation, day-to-day site operations, and practical implementation.
• Learn to use tools and machinery safely, including chainsaws, brushcutters, and dumpers.
• Gain experience in surveying, health and safety compliance, and project documentation.

Key duties & responsibilities:

• Assist with daily site operations, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
• Be ‘on the tools’ in the river and move equipment and materials around the site.
• Contribute to writing and adhering to Risk Assessments, Method Statements & Construction Phase Plans.
• Support staff with site visits, surveys, and other activities during the development phase.
• Take a lead role in maintaining equipment and organising storage facilities.
• Load and unload the van with tools, equipment, and materials.
• Problem-solve to overcome challenges during construction.
• Act as an ambassador for SERT when engaging with the public, clients, and stakeholders.

What we’re looking for:

• An enthusiastic and practical-minded person who is ready to get stuck in.
• Physically fitness and comfort working outdoors in varied conditions.
• A team player with energy and ideas to help deliver meaningful environmental change.
• Willingness to work longer days when delivering site-based activities, with compensating time off.
• Ability to travel extensively across the south east region as required (mileage allowances paid).

Why join us?
The health of rivers has never been more important. This role offers a fantastic opportunity to start your career in the environmental sector, restoring rivers to protect water resources and enhance wildlife across the water-stressed South East.

Job description

If you are interested in applying for this role, please see the job description for further information.

Application process

• Closing date for applications: Sunday 4th January 2026 at 11:59pm.
• First Interview:  Friday 16th January 2026
• Site Assessment: Successful interviewees will be invited to a half day site assessment at a location within the SERT area on Friday 23rd January 2023 (fixed date)