Nature Recovery
The nature recovery sector helps protect and improve the natural environment. It includes work to restore habitats, care for wildlife, plant trees, and manage green spaces, helping nature thrive for future generations.
Careers in Nature Recovery
Nature Recovery is a growing sector with many different careers focused on protecting and improving the natural environment. It is a great place to work, with opportunities to learn new skills and contribute to important environmental projects. You could work in conservation, ecology, habitat restoration, environmental planning, education, or project management. Whatever role you choose, you can make a real difference by helping nature recover and protecting the places that people and wildlife depend on.
View a variety of jobs
Discover the different careers available in nature recovery, from practical, hands-on work, to surveying, digital, and leadership jobs. Click on the job profiles below to find out what each role involves, the skills you need, and the steps you can take to progress.
Find Your Next Step
Check out our Skills Connect Directory for a list of opportunities and places to train in your region to help you kick start your career in nature recovery.
Career pathways map
Discover our downloadable nature recovery career pathway maps, which outline the various nature recovery courses and qualifications, from entry-level to progression routes for those looking to develop their existing skills.
This resource has been designed primarily for Skills Providers, to help support others looking to develop their careers
Liz's Traineeship Story
After years in admin, retail, and raising children, Liz decided it was time to act on her passion for nature. “I thought, ‘I need to make a difference – otherwise, what kind of world are my children going to inherit?’” she says. Volunteering led her to a Pollinator Pathways Traineeship with Avon Wildlife Trust, where she now works on habitat restoration, ecological surveying, and community engagement.
From soil sampling and hedge laying to organising citizen science events, Liz’s role is hands-on and varied. “We’re learning the ropes and getting real feedback from experienced colleagues,” she explains. Alongside the traineeship, she’s also studying Environmental Science full-time.
Liz believes traineeships are vital for people of all ages. “You don’t need existing skills – just passion and a willingness to learn.” Her advice? “Take every opportunity. You don’t need to be an expert – just open, passionate, and ready to learn.”
