Residential on Reserve (Less than 4 weeks) (Visitor Engagement Rathlin Seabird Centre)

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

Imagine standing on the cliffs of Rathlin Island, puffins whirling overhead, razorbills diving into the waves, and the call of a corncrake echoing across the fields. This is not just volunteering, it’s becoming part of the story of one of the most important seabird colonies in Northern Ireland.

By joining us, you’ll be at the heart of the action: welcoming thousands of visitors, sharing the magic of seabirds, and inspiring people to support the RSPB’s vital conservation work. Every conversation you have, every smile you share, helps protect the wildlife that calls Rathlin home.

The Commitment

Minimum stay: 2 weeks (Programme runs Monday to Monday)

Arrival/Departure: Volunteers must arrive and leave on Mondays only. Please book travel accordingly. Staff are only available to meet you on these days.

Rota: 5 days on duty, 2 days off each week. Days off are set by the team depending on the needs of the Centre.

Accommodation: Provided in a cottage bunkhouse (3.5 miles from the harbour, 1 mile from the Seabird Centre). Shared rooms with same-gender volunteers. Applicants must tick “willing to share” for their application to be processed.

Costs: It is your responsibility to cover the cost of your transport to and from the reserve, and to provide and cover the cost of your food during your stay. Accommodation and basic services are provided free of charge.

Why We Want You

The West Lighthouse Seabird Centre welcomes over 19,000 visitors every summer. They come for the puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes, but they stay for the stories, the passion, and the connection you’ll bring.

We need volunteers who are:

• Friendly, enthusiastic, and confident in engaging with the public.

• Excited to share the wonder of seabirds and the importance of protecting them.

• Ready to be the welcoming face of the RSPB, inspiring visitors to support our mission.

What’s In It For You

• Be part of something bigger, a movement of people protecting nature.

• Gain hands-on experience in visitor engagement, retail, and hospitality.

• Learn about conservation projects for corncrake and chough, and help raise awareness of this vital work.

• Spend your free time exploring Rathlin’s wild landscapes, unique island culture, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

“When you’re standing on Rathlin Island, looking at puffins or razorbills, or listening to your first ever corncrake, it’s incredible. It’s a lot of fun.” – Dakota Reid, former residential volunteer

Please note: This is a Visitor Engagement Role only — it does not include practical conservation or habitat management work.

Your Role

• Welcome and inspire visitors, making their experience unforgettable.

• Confidently address and guide large groups.

• Share stories about seabirds and RSPB’s conservation work (no specialist bird knowledge required).

• Support retail and catering sales.

• Help keep the Centre clean, safe, and welcoming.

Requirements

• Minimum age: 18

• Enthusiasm, friendliness, and confidence with people.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Comfortable with physical activity. The Viewing Platform involves 160+ steep steps.

• Retail, hospitality, or catering experience is a bonus.

Notes

• Vehicle access to Rathlin Island is restricted. Please do not bring cars or camper vans.

• There is no charge to take part.

• Volunteers must cover their own transport and food costs.

• Accommodation and basic services are provided free of charge.

This is your chance to make a direct impact — inspiring thousands of visitors, protecting seabirds, and experiencing the wild beauty of Rathlin Island.