Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Help monitor and protect Curlew breeding sites in a beautiful rural setting.
- Company: Join the RSPB, a leading conservation charity dedicated to protecting nature.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, training, and meet like-minded people while making a difference.
- Why this job: Make a real impact for nature and enjoy working outdoors with a friendly team.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed, just a willingness to learn and work outdoors.
- Other info: This is a voluntary position, so it's perfect for those looking to contribute to conservation.
Location: Fermanagh and Omagh
Salary: This position is entirely voluntary and is therefore unpaid.
Want to play a vital role in monitoring and protecting Curlew? Curlew struggle to breed successfully in many parts of the UK due to predation of their eggs and chicks by predators, disturbance and changes to their habitat. The RSPB has been working in the farmed landscape around Upper Lough Erne over a number of years to tackle these problems and is seeking help with some aspects of this work.
This role could include some or all of the following:
- Monitoring suspected Curlew breeding sites to identify the location of pair territories.
- Assisting with the erection of temporary nest protection fences (if nests are found).
- Nest monitoring (if nests are found).
- Administration as required.
This role will require some key general skills, but a full induction, training and ongoing support will be provided.
General skills and knowledge which would be useful include:
- Ability to identify Curlew.
- Some knowledge of the species.
- Willingness to learn and follow the various steps the RSPB is taking to save Curlew.
- Able to work outdoors for prolonged periods of time as needed.
- Able to work independently or as part of a small team.
- Locations are remote and rural, so access to own transport (or lift sharing) is essential.
This is a hugely rewarding role and offers the opportunity to make a real impact for nature and the environment. As a Species Protection Volunteer, you will have a chance to work as part of a team and meet new, like-minded people whilst gaining hands-on experience of specific species protection. We will offer training and induction to ensure that you are prepared for the specific needs for each habitat and species. You will be contributing to our Saving Nature work programme, so we are able to better protect these key species and their habitats long into the future. We like to think we’re a friendly and welcoming team, so you’ll have the opportunity to make new friends too.
RSPB – Species Protection (Upper Lough Erne) Volunteering employer: Northern Ireland Environment Link
Contact Detail:
Northern Ireland Environment Link Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land RSPB – Species Protection (Upper Lough Erne) Volunteering
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Curlew and its habitat. Understanding their behaviour and breeding patterns will not only help you in your role but also impress the RSPB team during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or past volunteers. They can provide insights into what the role entails and share tips on how to make a positive impression during your time with the RSPB.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your willingness to learn. Show enthusiasm for training opportunities and express your commitment to following the RSPB's conservation strategies, which will highlight your dedication to the cause.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared for outdoor work. Ensure you have the right gear and are physically ready for the demands of the role, as this will show your readiness to take on the responsibilities involved.
We think you need these skills to ace RSPB – Species Protection (Upper Lough Erne) Volunteering
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and skills required for the Species Protection Volunteer position. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous volunteering or work experience related to wildlife conservation, outdoor work, or teamwork. Mention specific skills like identifying Curlew or working in remote locations.
Express Your Passion: Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for nature conservation and the importance of protecting species like the Curlew. A personal touch about why this role matters to you can make your application stand out.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, double-check your application for spelling and grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Northern Ireland Environment Link
✨Show Your Passion for Nature
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for wildlife conservation and the specific role of protecting Curlew. Share any personal experiences or interests related to nature that demonstrate your commitment to the cause.
✨Highlight Relevant Skills
Discuss any skills you have that are relevant to the role, such as experience in monitoring wildlife, teamwork, or outdoor work. If you have knowledge about Curlew or similar species, be sure to mention it!
✨Demonstrate Willingness to Learn
Since the role involves training and ongoing support, show that you are eager to learn and adapt. Ask questions about the training process and express your readiness to follow the RSPB's guidelines.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Think about how you would handle various situations that may arise in the field, such as working independently or as part of a team. Be ready to discuss how you would approach monitoring nests or erecting protection fences.
