At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage communities to protect Scotland's red squirrels and manage volunteer networks.
- Company: Scotland’s leading nature conservation charity dedicated to wildlife protection.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time role, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic conservation environment.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and help conserve Scotland's unique wildlife.
- Qualifications: Relevant degree and experience in volunteer management required.
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. If you want to know about the requirements for this role, read on for all the relevant information. 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. We give a voice to wildlife through our policy and campaigning work, demonstrate best practice through practical conservation work, engage with people to take positive action through our education programmes and events, and so much more.
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
- Managing and coordinating 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
- Engaging and building relations with new and existing stakeholders to support the project
- 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 Project) employer: Iris Recruitment
As Scotland’s leading nature conservation charity, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment where passionate individuals can thrive. Our Blairgowrie office offers a unique opportunity to engage with local communities while contributing to vital conservation efforts, ensuring that employees not only make a meaningful impact on Scotland's wildlife but also enjoy professional growth through training and volunteer management experiences. Join us in our mission to protect Scotland’s natural heritage and be part of a team that values dedication, innovation, and community engagement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Outreach Officer - Highland Line (Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels – Transforming Nature Project)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research their projects, values, and recent initiatives. This will help you tailor your conversations and show genuine interest during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend conservation events or community gatherings related to wildlife. Connecting with people in the field can lead to valuable insights and opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills and experiences align with the role of Community Outreach Officer. Highlight your volunteer management experience and passion for conservation.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our mission to protect Scotland’s wildlife.
We think you need these skills to ace Community Outreach Officer - Highland Line (Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels – Transforming Nature Project)
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 to protect Scotland’s wildlife, so share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your commitment.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Community Outreach Officer role. Highlight your experience in recruiting and managing volunteers, as well as any specific skills that relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. Remember, we’re looking for specific examples of your skills and experiences, so don’t be shy about showcasing them!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our organisation there!
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 Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels strategy and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Show Off Your People Skills
As a Community Outreach Officer, you'll be working 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 audiences and build relationships.
✨Get Tech-Savvy
Since keeping accurate records is essential, make sure you're comfortable with Microsoft packages and have a basic understanding of ArcGIS. Be prepared to discuss any relevant experience you have with data entry and digital record-keeping.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Think about potential challenges you might face in this role, such as engaging difficult-to-reach communities. Prepare to discuss how you would approach these situations, showcasing your problem-solving skills and creativity in outreach.
