Residential Voluntary Intern (Northward Hill Reserve)
Available from 10 October 2022 to 10 September 2023
Residential Conservation Internship – 6 & 12 month placements – North Kent Marshes
Why we want you We are looking for individuals to join our volunteer conservation internship programme starting in September 2022. We have 6 and 12 month positions North Kent Marshes. Accommodation including household bills will be provided free of charge. North Kent Marshes is a collection of 4 wetland sites which play a vital role in the landscape connectivity of the south east coast. We want you to be involved in all aspects of reserve management and to play a part in improving how the reserves are managed for the diverse range of wildlife they support.
What’s in it for you? The reserve work programme will provide a wide range of opportunities for you to develop your knowledge and skills in conservation. You will gain experience of working on a range of habitats that may include grazing marsh, reedbed, woodland, saline lagoon and estuarine habitats. The work is very varied and will allow you to gain a wealth of experience necessary for pursuing a career in nature conservation. The autumn/winter placement starting in September 2022 may include the following: • Practical management of reedbed habitats and learning how to improve reedbeds for key species • Removing trees and scrub from woodland to improve the habitat for nesting birds and various invertebrates • Managing scrub to benefit turtle doves and nightingales • Practical management of wet grassland to benefit a range of species • Conducting bird surveys such as WeBS and BBS • Training in and use of GIS software to produce maps and input biological data • Attending formal accredited training as required by the role • Use and maintenance of a range of machinery • Learning about key reserve management topics such as cross compliance, agri-environment schemes, hydrology and management planning • Monitoring predators of wet grassland birds by conducting surveys, checking trail cameras and mink rafts • Working as part of team to complete practical estate work such as fencing • Training in and use of GIS software to produce maps and input biological data
The 12-month placement will include spring/summer work that will be much more focused on monitoring a number of breeding species such as lapwing, redshank and nightingale among many others.
Career development We will support your career development by creating a Personal Development Plan and by helping you with application writing and career coaching through regular one to one meetings. These will be conducted by RSPB staff with knowledge of what you need to do to get a career in conservation. Many previous volunteers have been successful in gaining paid employment with the RSPB and other conservation organisations.
Accommodation Accommodation is provided free of charge on the reserves. The accommodation has electricity, central heating and shower/bath. Bedding can be provided if required. There is a TV, DVD player, washing machine, iron, cooker, microwave, fridge and freezer. The reserves are quite isolated so your own car would be useful but not essential. The nearest supermarkets are located about 5 miles away.
The skills you need This is a voluntary position. We are seeking individuals who have the energy, enthusiasm and desire to succeed in a career in conservation. No previous experience is necessary, but a degree in a conservation or related area is desirable and a knowledge of wildlife is useful. You must be prepared to undertake physical work outside in all weathers. You must be over 18 and have a full clean driving licence. Your time Minimum commitment: 6 months Duration: 6 months, but 12 months is also possible Period: From October 2022 to April or September 2023
How to apply The online application form has a question in the About you section asking why you have applied for the role. Please complete this like you would a covering letter, for example letting us know a bit about you and why you would make a good candidate. Please also include what placement length (i.e. 6 or 12 month) you are applying for. Deadline for applications is 2nd October 2022. Interviews will be held week commencing 10th of October 2022.