Click on the roles we are actively recruiting for now, or fill in a speculative application, or get in touch with the team directly via: ​[email protected] 

Explore Open Opportunities

speculative application

​If you are interested in a position with us or would like to be considered for future opportunities please complete our expression of interest form with your CV to:
Application Form - Speculative
In line with GDPR, we will only retain your personal information for 12 months. 

​volunteering / work experience opportunities

Regarding volunteering / work experience opportunities, other than the voluntary role listed below, we don't have anything else currently available. Our Biosphere Communities Project is probably the best area for such opportunities; should anything arise in the future, they will be posted here: Biosphere Communities Project

​Our Biosphere Communities team work in support of a number of other local organisations who provide volunteering and work experience opportunities to improve and protect green and blue spaces. These are:

• Wild About Devon (WAD)
• Community Action Groups (CAG) Devon
• Devon Communities Together
• Devon Connect - Connecting Communities in Devon.

YOUTH REPRESENTATIVE - NORTH DEVON UNESCO ​BIOSPHERE (VOLUNTARY ROLE)

Are you a young person aged 18-35 with a passion for ensuring North Devon has a sustainable future? 
 
🌍 Become a Youth Representative for North Devon UNESCO Biosphere 
The North Devon UNESCO Biosphere is part of a global network of over 750 Biosphere Reserves working together to develop innovative approaches to sustainable development, protect biodiversity and culture, and support vital research. 
 
At North Devon Biosphere, we are guided by our new 10-year strategy (2026–2036), 'living up to world class by nature'. Our vision is to ensure that people and nature thrive together, creating a truly sustainable future for our region.  
 
🗣️ Why Youth Voices Matter 
We place a high value on the perspectives, ideas, and energy of young people within our Biosphere. We are committed to supporting young adults to become active, engaged members of their communities and to help shape the future of North Devon. 
 
We are seeking one Youth Representative to help bring fresh perspectives, highlight the priorities of younger generations, and contribute to conversations around sustainability, conservation, and community development across the Biosphere. 
 
This is a unique opportunity to be part of a wider movement—connecting with biospheres across the UK and internationally—to amplify youth voices and drive meaningful environmental and social change. 
 

Andy Bell, CEO of North Devon Biosphere, says: 
“Young people bring energy, fresh ideas, and a willingness to think differently—qualities that are essential for addressing the challenges ahead. Too often their voices are underrepresented, yet they have a crucial role in shaping their communities. 
 
At North Devon Biosphere, we are committed to empowering young people to make a real impact. I look forward to welcoming a new Youth Representative who will help inspire others and ensure young voices are at the heart of our ‘living up to world class by nature’ vision.” ​

🙋 Who Can Apply 
This unpaid role is open to individuals who: 

• Are aged 18–35 

• Live, work, or study within the North Devon Biosphere region 

You don’t need to be an expert in sustainability—we welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. We are particularly keen to encourage applications from individuals and communities who are currently underrepresented. 
 
🌱 Role Description 
North Devon UNESCO Biosphere is seeking an enthusiastic and optimistic volunteer with strong communication skills and initiative to join our work. 
As the North Devon Biosphere Youth Representative, you will: 

• Gather views, ideas and perspectives from young people across the North Devon Biosphere region, and share these at Biosphere Partnership and other Stakeholder Meetings to help inform our work and priorities. 

• Help develop ways to engage and involve young people in conversations and activities linked to sustainability and our UNESCO Biosphere status. 

• Support the development and growth of a North Devon youth network, creating opportunities for young people to connect locally and contribute to wider discussions. 

• Link with UK, Ireland, and international Biosphere Youth Networks, building connections and sharing ideas across the global UNESCO Biosphere community. 

• Represent the North Devon Biosphere at events and meetings across the region and, where possible, further afield. 

 
🌍 Benefits 
This voluntary role offers a range of benefits: 

• Flexibility: Work around your existing commitments and schedule 

• Networking: Build connections across North Devon and within the wider Biosphere network 

• Influence: Play a role in shaping the future direction of the Biosphere 

• Skill Development: Gain experience in communication, leadership, and collaboration 

• Travel Opportunities: Opportunity for funded travel to national and international meetings and events 

• Supportive Environment: Be part of a friendly and supportive team, with guidance, training opportunities and help available when needed 

Reasonable expenses will be covered where agreed, and funding may be available for engagement and development opportunities. 
 
✅ Expectations 

• Commitment to the role for up to 2 years 

• Regular, clear, and honest communication with the North Devon Biosphere team 

• Professional and respectful representation of the Biosphere at events, meetings, and online 

• Attendance at key meetings and activities (with online options available where appropriate) 

• While there is no strict minimum time requirement, an average of around 2 hours per week will help you get the most from the role and make a meaningful contribution 

 
📩 Application Process 
To apply, please complete the online application form which will ask you for the following information: 

• Your name, age, and contact details (phone number and email address) 

• A short explanation of why you are interested in the role and why you would be a suitable candidate (including any relevant skills, knowledge, experience, and interests). 

• A brief proposal outlining one way you would engage young people (aged 18–35) in North Devon with the Biosphere and issues around sustainability. 

• What you hope to gain from the role. 

  
Application deadline: 16 August 2026 
To apply: Complete the online application form
Interviews: Details will be shared with shortlisted candidates after the application window closes.

​In line with GDPR, we will only retain your personal information for as long as necessary to complete the recruitment process.