Residential on Reserve (More than 4 weeks) (Leighton Moss)

When: Flexible but placements available from January 2025 lasting for 6+ months. Closing date for applications 17 January 2025.

Interviews will be held in late January 2025

Commitment: 26 weeks

Duration: Flexible but typically 6 month placement

Why We Want You:

We are looking for an enthusiastic residential volunteer with some prior practical experience to join our wardening team for six months, starting in January-February 2025 (or earlier if available). Help us to deliver nature conservation on the ground as part of the team carrying out the day-to-day management of the reserve, and ensuring that it is maintained to the high standard expected of RSPB. Winter work is likely to involve reed cutting, coppicing, path maintenance and bird surveys around Morecambe Bay.

What’s In It For You:

This is a chance to spend 6 months volunteering and living in the stunning surroundings of Leighton Moss and Morecambe Bay, home to key species such as otter, bearded tit, marsh harrier, bittern and a host of rare plants and invertebrates. The reserve has a flagship visitor centre, receiving 110,000 visitors a year! In addition you will gain:

• Excellent practical experience of working on a flagship nature reserve and managing different habitats for wildlife.

• Experience of wildlife monitoring techniques such as wetland bird surveys and moth trapping.

• Appropriate training in the use of machinery and power tools.

• Experience of working in a team and supervising other volunteers

• A working knowledge of the RSPB and conservation issues

• Free accommodation in stunning surroundings on the reserve.

Requirements:

Essential criteria are

• Enthusiasm for the role

• An interest in conservation

• Some experience of practical conservation work

• Ability to work as part of a team

• A full driving licence is also required for this role

You will need to be at least 18 yrs old. You must be prepared to undertake strenuous manual labour outside in all weathers, walking long distances and you must have a flexible approach, as some tasks may take place early in the morning, late at night or at weekends.

Notes:

Accommodation is provided on site in the main visitor centre building. There are two bedrooms and a shared living room, kitchen and bathroom.

Appropriate training will be provided and pre-agreed expenses will be re-imbursed where necessary.

For more information please contact Nick Godden on 01524 703014 or email nick.godden@RSPB.org.uk. Nick spends most of his time working out on the reserve but will respond to your application or e-mail ASAP. If you are interested in applying for this placement, please fill in the residential volunteer application on assemble.