The Peatland Officer is a new post within the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU). The role is being introduced to help raise awareness of the value of peatlands, its importance within Northern Ireland’s net zero journey and its role in biodiversity.
The Peatland Officer role will work in the UFU to raise awareness of the need for peatland restoration/enhancement as part of sustainable farm businesses. Managing peatland to reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions can have positive benefits including reducing the farm carbon footprint, increasing biodiversity, and helping to alleviate flooding. Many factors can affect the condition of peatlands such as historic drainage, extreme weather conditions over a prolonged period causing erosion, lack of resources to shepherd livestock, and the need for a sustainable stocking density.
This role will involve working with a range of stakeholders, but principally focus on landowners and farmers who own or manage peatlands and peat soils. The post will help the industry understand the role of peatlands within the farmed landscape and the need for sensitive management for climate and biodiversity including the importance of restoration/enhancement where required to reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions and promote opportunities for farmers. They will also work with the horticulture sector in relation to peat-free alternatives. The workplan for the Peatland Officer will be developed and agreed upon with a small group of key stakeholders who will also contribute time and expertise to support the post holder.
Salary
The Salary scale for this full time position is £27,325 – £32,145 and the role is contracted until 31st March 2028.
Benefits
Benefits include: hybrid working; 25 days annual leave exclusive of public and bank holidays; employer contribution to private pension scheme (up to 5%); car mileage for travel; cycle to work scheme; employee assistance programme.
How to apply
The closing date for the role is 4pm on Friday 22 March 2024.
To apply, please email your completed application and monitoring form to angela@ufuhq.com quoting “Peatland Officer application” in the subject line.
Please ensure you have clearly demonstrated on your application how you meet the appropriate criteria.