At a Glance
- Tasks: Protect Scotland's wildlife by engaging communities in red squirrel conservation efforts.
- Company: Scotland’s leading nature conservation charity dedicated to wildlife protection.
- Benefits: Full-time role with a competitive salary and opportunities for community engagement.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and help protect Scotland's unique ecosystems.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in wildlife conservation while working with passionate volunteers.
- Qualifications: Degree in a relevant field and experience in volunteer management required.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 25000 € per year.
As Scotland’s leading nature conservation charity, we welcome applications from individuals who are looking to join us in our journey of protecting Scotland’s wildlife for the future. From major species and landscape restoration projects to managing our network of wildlife reserves and campaigning for nature, we work for Scotland’s wildlife year-round.
The Community Outreach Officer will contribute to the protection of the Highland Line (HL), a coast-to-coast control zone which aims to prevent grey squirrels from moving north from Central Scotland into the red strongholds of the Highlands and Grampians. Progressed through a programme of targeted grey squirrel monitoring and control, you’ll help support the protection and expansion of red squirrel populations in accordance with the Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels strategy. This role requires an approachable individual with experience recruiting, motivating, training, coordinating and managing community-based volunteers (groups and individuals) to undertake active conservation work.
Key Responsibilities and Duties:- Working closely with the Monitoring and Control Officers (MCOs)
- Supporting and expanding volunteer networks through volunteer recruitment and onboarding
- Data entry and digital records
- Engaging and building relations with key stakeholders, landowners and local authorities
- Providing community network support and communications, including identifying opportunities to engage difficult-to-reach people and new audiences in the Central Lowlands.
- Recruiting, training and supporting volunteers to carry out fortnightly feeder box monitoring surveys, ensuring they have the equipment and consumables required, and providing practical support and temporary survey cover as needed.
- Manage and coordinate the processing of monitoring samples and resulting data, including the analysis of hair samples to identify and record red squirrel, grey squirrel or pine marten detections and sharing results with volunteers.
- Engaging with and recruiting new landowners/managers to undertake grey squirrel control and monitoring on their land.
- Developing methodologies to ensure sustained engagement and data sharing to support independent controllers across the Highland Line region.
- Leading strategic events, talks, and other activities to promote active community understanding and participation of red squirrel conservation in Scotland.
The successful candidate will:
- Possess a relevant degree
- Have experience of recruiting, motivating, training, coordinating and managing volunteers
- A good understanding of conservation principles, invasive non-native species management, wildlife practices and legislation
- Experience of working with landowners, gamekeepers, foresters and the public is desirable
- Experience with keeping and maintaining accurate records using Microsoft packages is essential and knowledge of ArcGIS would be useful
- There may occasionally be a requirement to work out of normal working hours
- You must possess a full clean driving licence and have use of a vehicle
Closing date: midnight Monday 15th June
Interview date: Thursday 25th June
Community Outreach Officer - Highland Line (Saving Scotland's Red Squirrels - Transforming Nature... in Blairgowrie employer: Iris Recruitment
As Scotland's leading nature conservation charity, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment that empowers our employees to make a tangible impact on wildlife preservation. Located in the picturesque Perthshire region, our Blairgowrie office offers a unique opportunity to engage with local communities and volunteers, while benefiting from professional development and training in conservation practices. Join us in our mission to protect Scotland's red squirrels and enjoy a fulfilling career dedicated to environmental stewardship.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Outreach Officer - Highland Line (Saving Scotland's Red Squirrels - Transforming Nature... in Blairgowrie
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research their projects and values, especially around wildlife conservation. This will help you connect your passion for nature with their mission during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend local conservation events or workshops to meet people in the field. Building relationships can lead to insider info about job openings and even recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your volunteer experience! If you've worked with community groups or on conservation projects, highlight this in your conversations. It demonstrates your commitment and ability to engage others.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications that come directly from our platform. It shows you're keen and ready to jump into the role of Community Outreach Officer with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Community Outreach Officer - Highland Line (Saving Scotland's Red Squirrels - Transforming Nature... in Blairgowrie
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Conservation:When writing your application, let your love for wildlife and conservation shine through. We want to see how your values align with our mission at StudySmarter and how you can contribute to protecting Scotland's wildlife.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have in recruiting and managing volunteers. We’re looking for someone who can motivate others, so share specific examples of how you've done this in the past!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your skills and experiences are easy to understand. Remember, we want to get to know you quickly!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Iris Recruitment
✨Know Your Conservation Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of conservation principles and invasive species management. Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges facing red squirrels in Scotland, as well as the strategies used to protect them. This will show your passion for the role and your commitment to the cause.
✨Show Off Your People Skills
As a Community Outreach Officer, you'll be working closely with volunteers and stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've successfully recruited, trained, or motivated volunteers in the past. Highlight your ability to engage with diverse groups and build strong relationships.
✨Get Familiar with Data Management
Since the role involves data entry and record-keeping, make sure you're comfortable with Microsoft packages and any relevant software like ArcGIS. Be ready to discuss your experience with managing data and how you ensure accuracy in your records.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Think of insightful questions to ask about the organisation's current projects, community engagement strategies, or future goals. This not only shows your interest but also helps you determine if the role is the right fit for you.