Residential on Reserve (More than 4 weeks) (Visitor Experience Assistant (Loch Garten Nature Centre))

Abernethy National Nature Reserve is a place of ancient majesty, set amidst the Cairngorms National Park, covering approximately 135 square kilometres. A key member of the Cairngorms Connect partnership, its wild landscape embraces the montane plateau of two of the UK's highest peaks, moorland, bog, lochs and the largest single tract of Caledonian pine forest - a remnant of the once extensive forest that covered much of Highland Scotland. The reserve species record stands at over 4,500, and more are added every year. This intricate mix of habitats is home to many hundreds of rare and scarce species, including capercaillie, red squirrel, crested tits, Scottish crossbill, twinflower, green shield moss and tooth fungi.

We are looking for two passionate and engaging volunteers who love nature and can share that love with others, enthusing visitors to protect nature. This role will be split between visitor experience at the Loch Garten Nature Centre (2 days per week), rangering on the wider reserve (2 days per week) and monitoring and practical work (1 day per week). Through this role you will learn to engage and enthuse visitors about nature. You will have the opportunity and training to lead guided walks, use social media, carry out visitor patrols, support our wardening team with survey and practical work and promote membership. This role will give you the confidence and experience to develop a career in conservation.

Tasks will include:

•Working with the Visitor Centre team to provide an outstanding visitor experience and help visitors connect with nature, sharing the beauty and importance of Abernethy with others.

•Creating social media and communications content.

•Supporting our Rangers to carry out patrols engaging and educating visitors about responsible access, both within the pine forest and in the Cairngorm Mountains.

•Organising and leading guided walks and other small events.

•Practical reserve work and habitat management.

These roles are for 6 months, starting mid-march.

Self-catering accommodation is provided and bicycles are available to explore the local area. A valid driving license is preferable but not essential.

For more information, contact: Sarah White Email: Sarah.White@rspb.org.uk Deadline for applications: 1st March, although we encourage you to apply sooner.