Species Protection Officer (x4)

Scotland’s leading nature conservation charity is looking for enthusiastic individuals to undertake the role of Species Protection Officer (SPO) based at Loch of the Lowes. This paid role includes free accommodation, invaluable training and the opportunity to develop experience in nature conservation, working with volunteers and public engagement!

A substantial portion of Osprey Watch duties will require SPOs to work night shifts. The role will also require working closely with the Perthshire Ranger, the Volunteer Nest Protection Team and Visitor Centre staff.

During this 8-week role, candidates will focus on providing an ‘Osprey Watch’ nest protection programme based at Loch of the Lowes. This will be a combination of paid working hours and voluntary unpaid hours. Successful candidates will work under a 17.5 hour temporary employment contract, the remainder of the 35 hours each week will be under a volunteer agreement. Successful candidates will receive invaluable training, practical experience, and free accommodation, in a loch-side, wooden eco-bothy for the duration of the role.

Duties include:
• Monitor and record breeding ospreys’ behaviour
• Provide round the clock ‘osprey watch’ protection of resident ospreys, their nest and eggs during the critical part of the breeding season
• Monitor additional webcams for beaver activity and other wildlife footage
• Create interesting social media and blog posts about the osprey breeding season

Training and Support:
The candidate will have the fantastic opportunity to gain experience in;
• Species ID
• Managing data
• Use of webcam and security camera software
• Use of Adobe Premier Elements editing software
• Use of WordPress and other social media platforms
• Working with volunteers
• Public engagement

The successful candidate(s) will ideally have:

• An interest and passion in nature conservation
• Good knowledge of natural history and species ID
• Experience of bird monitoring or species protection work is beneficial
• The willingness to live in shared accommodation with colleagues
• The ability to work unsociable hours, including nightshift
• A reasonable standard of physical fitness and resilience to undertake shifts in the hide in cold conditions
• A positive and flexible approach to work and other team members
• The ability to communicate with volunteers, staff and members of the public in a confident manner
• A high level of self-motivation, personal responsibility and organisational skills
• Good computer literacy skills, including a working knowledge of Excel

Please note the Species Protection Officer role is dependent on the return of breeding ospreys. Strict Covid-19 procedures will be in place, particularly with regards to the bothy accommodation.

Download full role description here.

To apply, please complete application form and return completed application form to recruitment@scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk.

Closing Date: 31 January 2022, 12 noon
Interviews will take place W/S 7th February 2022.

Scottish Wildlife Trust are an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and welcome applications from diverse groups.
If you require more information, please contact bruba@scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk or call 0131 312 4718