Spurn-based summer job up for grabs

The RSPB is looking for a field officer to safeguard the interests of shore-nesting birds on the North Bank of the Humber.

The job description states: "We are looking for an enthusiastic, practical person with ecological experience and good communication skills to join our Humber conservation team. 

"The successful candidate will support monitoring and protection of beach nesting bird populations (Little Tern, Ringed Plover and Oystercatcher) on the North Bank of the Humber.

"Beach nesting birds are a high conservation priority for the RSPB, and this role will help towards securing a future for them.

"This is a partnership project, and you will work closely with colleagues across organisations such as the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, Natural England, and Spurn Bird Observatory.

"This position is a fixed-term contract from April to August 2025."

It continues: "As the Seasonal Field Assistant, you will support all aspects of on-the-ground survey and monitoring delivery throughout the busy breeding season (April-August) in line with project objectives. You will be based at Yorkshire Wildlife Trust's Spurn National Nature Reserve. 

"Activities will include:

* Monitoring breeding success of beach nesting Ringed Plovers, Little Terns and Oystercatcher.
* Maintenance of seasonal site fencing (including electric fencing), signage, and other infrastructure as required.
* Carrying out predator monitoring duties including deploying and maintaining trail cameras on site.
* Day to day engagement with beach users to inform, educate and raise awareness of beach nesting birds and their threats to empower positive behavioural change.
* Supporting a growing team of dedicated volunteers including assisting with inductions and on-site support as needed.
* Maintaining and building relationships with existing partners and stakeholders.

"Essential skills, knowledge and experience: 

* Higher level qualification in a relevant subject or ability to show equivalent work experience eg agriculture practices.
* Knowledge of bird and wildlife ecology, habitat requirements and identification to enable credibility in the role.
* Knowledge of a range of delivery mechanisms for conservation work relevant to the operational area of this role e.g. agri-environment schemes.
* Organisational skills e.g. maintenance and analysis of datasets, and managing conflicting priorities.
* Ability to work effectively as a team player both internally and externally.
* Effective communication skills (verbal, written and presentational) - including an ability to speak confidently and cogently in public to a variety of audiences.
* Experience of managing volunteers and setting clear work priorities.

"The closing date for applications is March 2, 2025."

For further information, contact mike.pilsworth@rspb.org.uk