At a Glance
- Tasks: Help protect wildlife by controlling invasive species in beautiful outdoor settings.
- Company: Join NatureScot, a leader in environmental conservation and wildlife management.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and a civil service pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in nature while working in stunning landscapes.
- Qualifications: Experience in wildlife management and a valid driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 32796 - 40084 £ per year.
Vacancy type: Fixed Term Appointment until 31 March 2028
Hours: 35 hours
Salary: £30,076
Location: Uist
Closing date: Midnight 13 September 2026
Interview date: 01 October 2026
Job Purpose Summary: To carry out control of mink in support of a project set up and funded by Scottish Natural Heritage. The project aims to eradicate American mink (Neovision vision) from the Outer Hebrides. To trap and humanely despatch American Mink (also rats and potentially ferrets) on the Isles of Lewis and Harris using both “Breakback” (kill) and live capture cage traps.
Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities:
- To control mink, by trapping in the Uists, Western Isles
- To record contacts with officials and the public, in relation to this work
- To maintain accurate records of mink trapping operations
- To maintain a high level of personal responsibility in dealing sensitively and humanely with control operations
Finally, please note that the nature of this role can involve walking over moorland of between 8-20 kilometres per day.
Skills:
- Experience of wildlife management, using Live Capture and Kill Traps and outdoor work.
- A valid driving licence, or be able to call upon suitable alternative means of transport.
- Physical fitness for working in rough terrain and inclement weather conditions.
- Effective time management and communication skills.
- Knowledge of the local area and its natural history.
- Experience of working in an Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS) eradication Project.
- Boat handling skills.
- Experience of dealing with the general public.
- Experience of working with firearms.
- Experience of using working dogs.
Prerequisites Required:
- Candidates must be eligible to live and work in the UK and resident in Scotland for the duration of the job contract.
- To undertake a Disclosure Scotland application.
- Although Gaelic language is not a prerequisite it is a desirable skill in support of our commitment to our Gaelic Language Plan.
Working for NatureScot – what we offer you:
- An environment with flexible working options.
- A Civil Service Pension with an employer contribution of 28.97% (7.35% employee contributions).
- 41.5 days of annual leave, including 5 fixed public holidays on St Andrews Day, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day and 2nd January.
- Equivalent of 2 days paid volunteering leave.
- A focus on wellbeing with access to an employee assistance programme.
- Job satisfaction from contributing proactively to the twinned nature and climate crisis.
- Death in service benefits.
- Cycle to work and electric vehicle salary sacrifice schemes.
- Access to an employee discounts scheme.
- Learning and development tailored to your role.
- A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity.
Application Process: Application is by CV and Supporting Statement. Please ensure you have attached these documents when submitting your application. Before applying for this post; Internal applicants should read the Self Service Guide (eRDMS A3155575) External applicants should read the Online Job Application Guide. If you have previously applied for a vacancy with NatureScot you must remove the supporting statement from your profile, before uploading a new version.
Interviews: External candidates will be invited to interview if we are unable to recruit internally.
NatureScot’s Net Zero commitment: Whether working at home or in an office, or travelling to meetings and site visits, as a NatureScot you will contribute to our Net Zero plan, for example through positive carbon travel choices.
For information regarding the vacancy please contact: Iain Macleod, Operations Manager - West Email: iain.macleod@nature.scot
For information regarding the recruitment process please contact: recruitment@nature.scot
Nature is vital to us all, so it's important that NatureScot represents the people of Scotland. The more diverse our workforce is, the more effectively we can connect everyone with nature. We encourage applications from candidates of all ages and genders, people from ethnic minority groups, people with disabilities, and the LGBTQ+ community.
1001-342 HMP Project Support - B Grade - August 2026 employer: NatureScot
NatureScot is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that prioritises sustainability and environmental stewardship. As a Marine Sustainability Advisor, you will have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to Scotland's net zero targets while enjoying flexible working arrangements and professional growth opportunities in a supportive environment. Join us in making a positive impact on marine conservation and be part of a team that values your expertise and commitment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 1001-342 HMP Project Support - B Grade - August 2026
✨Get Involved in Local Projects
Dive into community projects or volunteer opportunities related to environmental engineering. Not only will this boost your experience, but it can also put you in touch with local professionals who might know of temporary roles. Plus, it's a great way to show your passion for the field!
✨Use Industry-Specific Platforms
Check out platforms like EnvironmentJobs or Ecotricity for temporary positions. These sites focus specifically on environmental roles and can give you a leg up in finding short-term gigs that match your skills.
✨Network at Environmental Events
Keep an eye out for local environmental tech meetups, conferences, or seminars. Engaging in these spaces can help you meet potential employers face-to-face and tap into the hidden job market, especially for temporary roles!
✨Leverage Our Website for Quick Applications
Don’t forget to check out temporary positions at NatureScot through our website. Applying directly there can often fast-track your application and get you noticed quicker by hiring managers. It’s a smart move to stand out!
We think you need these skills to ace 1001-342 HMP Project Support - B Grade - August 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:In the world of environmental engineering tech, it’s all about those technical skills! Make sure your CV highlights relevant software knowledge, such as CAD programs or environmental modelling software. Mention any specific projects where you applied these skills – it's a brilliant way to demonstrate your hands-on experience!
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV. Take a little time to tailor it for the temporary role with NatureScot. Focus on highlighting any experience that relates directly to the specific environmental challenges they might tackle. Relevant coursework or certifications, even if they're from a short course, can give you an edge.
Keep it Short and Sweet:Since this is a temporary position, we recommend keeping your application concise. Highlight the most relevant experience and how quickly you can adapt to the role. Brief statements about your adaptability and eagerness to contribute can make a solid impression!
Brief Motivation in Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should express not just your qualifications but also your enthusiasm for the role at NatureScot. Explain why you’re drawn to the temporary nature of the job and what you hope to learn. This helps show that you’re not just looking for any position, but that you genuinely care about this opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at NatureScot
✨Get Familiar with Key Engineering Tools
In environmental engineering tech, you’ll likely be quizzed on software tools like AutoCAD or GIS systems. Brush up on how you’ve used these tools in your studies or previous projects, as you might be asked technical questions that require you to explain specific applications in real-world scenarios.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Temporary positions often require quick thinking and adaptability. Be ready to discuss a project or case where you identified an environmental issue and proposed a solution. This not only highlights your analytical skills but shows you can hit the ground running—exactly what a temporary role needs!
✨Highlight Your Passion for Sustainability
Since we’re in the environmental sector, your enthusiasm for sustainable practices can be a game changer. Share any relevant coursework or volunteer activities you've engaged in that reflect your commitment. Employers love to see passion combined with practical experience.
✨Prepare for Short-Term Commitment Questions
For a temporary role, expect questions about your availability and how you manage time effectively on short-term projects. Be candid about your specific time commitment and illustrate how you've successfully completed previous assignments or internships within tight deadlines.
