At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead predator control efforts to protect ground nesting waders at our stunning nature reserve.
- Company: Join the RSPB, a leading conservation charity dedicated to protecting wildlife.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension scheme, and 26 days' annual leave pro rata.
- Other info: Part-time role with flexible hours from January to July 2027.
- Why this job: Make a real difference for wildlife while working in beautiful outdoor settings.
- Qualifications: Must hold appropriate firearms licences and have excellent ecological knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 32013 - 39127 £ per year.
A seasonal opportunity has opened up at our Inishcreenry Nature Reserve. We are looking to employ a Predator Control Officer for the reserve, to lead on predator control and thus take an active role in ensuring we reach our targets for ground nesting waders on the reserve.
Inishcreenry is a 60 ha ASSI on Upper Lough Erne and the newest RSPB reserve in Northern Ireland. It supports a range of habitats, including species rich grasslands, wetland habitats and wet woodland. Predator control will play a vital part in ensuring the waders return.
Key result areas for the Predator Control Officer:
- Plan and undertake a seasonal programme of appropriate predator control to enable management plan targets for the protection of ground nesting waders to be reached.
- Operate all predator control activities within RSPB permissions and procedures to ensure compliance with legal requirements, including the legal compliance and safe operation of firearms.
- Maintain all site infrastructure relating to predator control across the site to ensure management plan targets to be reached and investment in infrastructure to be protected.
- Act as the predator control expert for Inishcreenry by sharing knowledge and advice to a range of audiences both internal and external.
- Advocate RSPB's policy on vertebrate control and the benefits to wildlife to both internal and external audiences.
- Keep detailed records and write regular reports as required by RSPB monitoring and reporting procedure for sites undertaking vertebrate control.
Essential qualifications:
- Holder of appropriate firearms licences for control of fox, mink and corvids.
- Lantra Fox Control (Centre Fire Rifle) or Deer Stalking Certificate Level 1 or higher qualification.
Essential knowledge:
- Excellent knowledge of the ecology and behaviours of both target and non-target species.
- A thorough knowledge of firearms legislation relevant to firearms and ammunition held/operated by the post holder.
- Excellent knowledge of good practice with regard to safe use of firearms.
- Excellent knowledge and experience of the safe and effective use of traps used for other species.
Essential skills:
- Excellent field skills in locating and identifying tracks and field signs.
- Ability to use technology such as smartphones and computers.
- Able to work both independently and as part of a team.
Essential experience:
- Have experience of and be able to shoot a fox at 100m.
- Experience of using firearms, including storage of firearms and ammunition to the standards set out by the local police authority.
Desirable qualifications, knowledge, skills and experience:
- Good knowledge in the installation and management of predator-proof fences.
- Good knowledge of other non-lethal methods of predator management.
This is a part-time, seasonal role with 30 hours a week to be worked between January and July 2027. The role will include working outside normal office hours, including at night, regularly.
Closing date: Monday November 30th, 2026 at 11:59 PM.
If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. We are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse RSPB, in which everyone feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves.
Seasonal Inishcreenry Predator Control Officer employer: RSPB
As a leading employer in the conservation sector, RSPB offers a dynamic work environment in the stunning location of Aviemore, where employees are encouraged to collaborate on impactful landscape restoration projects. With a strong commitment to employee development and a culture that values teamwork and innovation, RSPB provides unique opportunities for growth while making a meaningful difference in the natural world.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Seasonal Inishcreenry Predator Control Officer
✨Get Involved with Local Environmental Groups
Connect with local environmental groups and organisations that focus on sustainability and engineering. These communities often have job boards, networking events, and volunteer opportunities that can lead to part-time positions like the one we want to land together at RSPB.
✨Showcase Your Passion Through Projects
Working on environmental projects, whether it’s personal or for a community initiative, can showcase your skills and passion. Consider creating a digital portfolio or blog that highlights your contributions and learnings in environmental engineering tech; it’s a great way to stand out when applying for that part-time role!
✨Visit University Career Fairs
If you’re still studying, make the most of career fairs at your university. Many firms, including RSPB, actively scout for part-time interns there. It’s a golden opportunity to meet recruiters face-to-face and show them why you’re the right fit for their team right off the bat!
✨Leverage Online Platforms
Join online platforms that cater to environmental engineering jobs, like specialised job boards or forums. These channels help you not only find part-time gigs but also interact with professionals in the field. Plus, you can share your own insights and get noticed—just remember to direct them to your application on our website!
We think you need these skills to ace Seasonal Inishcreenry Predator Control Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Technical Skills:In the environmental engineering tech field, it’s super important to showcase your technical abilities. Make sure to include specific skills related to software and technologies relevant to this sector, like CAD programs or environmental modelling tools. This is especially key for a part-time role like Seasonal Inishcreenry Predator Control Officer at RSPB, where practical skills can really set you apart!
Show Off Relevant Projects:Think about any hands-on projects or research you’ve done that showcase your problem-solving abilities in environmental engineering. Whether it’s a university project or a side gig, including a brief overview of these in your CV can grab attention. A part-time role means they might need you to hit the ground running, so demonstrating experience is a must.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for environmental issues and how they align with the mission of RSPB. Be sure to express your desire to contribute part-time, highlighting your motivation and willingness to learn. Let’s face it, a genuine enthusiasm for the field can go a long way in making you stand out!
Include Your Availability:When applying for a part-time role, it’s super helpful to mention your availability directly in your application. Whether you're going for specific days or flexible hours, being clear upfront saves time for both you and RSPB. It shows you're organised and ready to fit into their schedule effortlessly!
How to prepare for a job interview at RSPB
✨Brush Up on Technical Know-How
Since you're diving into the world of environmental engineering tech, make sure you're comfortable discussing relevant software and tools, like AutoCAD or GIS. They might throw in some technical questions or case studies during the interview to gauge your knowledge, so it’s a great idea to familiarise yourself with these before your chat with RSPB.
✨Show Your Passion for Sustainability
Part-time roles often get a lot of applicants, so make your passion for environmental issues stand out. Share any personal projects or volunteer work focused on sustainable practices, as it shows your dedication to the field and aligns with the values at RSPB.
✨Flexibility is Key
Part-time roles can require a bit of juggling between studying and work. Be ready to talk about how you plan to balance your schedule if you get the job with RSPB. Highlight your time management skills and steps you take to ensure you meet deadlines in both work and study.
✨Portfolio Perks
If you have any projects or portfolio work, be sure to bring it along! Even if your experience is limited, showcasing coursework related to environmental engineering tech or internships can really give you an edge. It’s a practical way to demonstrate your skills and creativity, so lean on that visual evidence during the interview.
