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- Tasks: Engage with visitors and help protect rare birds at Loch Ruthven.
- Company: Join the RSPB, a leading conservation charity.
- Benefits: Full training, travel expense reimbursement, and outdoor experience.
- Why this job: Make a difference in wildlife conservation while enjoying nature.
- Qualifications: Confident communicator; basic bird ID skills are a plus.
- Other info: Seasonal role from March to September with flexible volunteering days.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 £ per month.
RSPB is recruiting Visitor Engagement Volunteers to support its reserve team at Loch Ruthven during the Slavonian grebe breeding season. This role suits people who enjoy being outdoors, talking to visitors, and helping protect one of the UK’s rarest breeding birds at an important Highland reserve.
The role
- You will provide a friendly welcome to visitors arriving at the reserve.
- You will talk with visitors about Loch Ruthven, the work of the RSPB, and how people can enjoy the reserve responsibly.
- You will help monitor and record the activity of Slavonian grebes during the breeding season.
- You will help keep the welcome area tidy and stocked, including badges and donation points.
- You may volunteer alongside others or independently, depending on the shift.
Working pattern
This is a seasonal volunteer role running from spring to late summer. Volunteer days and times are agreed with the reserve team. The role is based at Loch Ruthven, which has no public transport links and limited facilities. The path to the hide is unsurfaced and includes uneven ground, steps, and boardwalk sections.
What we are looking for
- You will be a confident communicator who enjoys meeting and talking with people.
- You will be comfortable volunteering outdoors and, at times, working alone.
- Some basic bird identification skills are helpful, but full training is provided.
- You must be aged 18 or over.
- You should be comfortable with the physical nature of the site.
What is on offer
- The chance to volunteer on a beautiful and important nature reserve.
- Full training, support, and equipment provided by the RSPB.
- Reimbursement of reasonable out of pocket travel expenses.
- Opportunities to learn about wildlife, conservation, and reserve management.
- The chance to be part of a friendly and dedicated volunteer team.
How to apply
Apply through the employer’s website.
Visitor Engagement Volunteer employer: RSPB
Contact Detail:
RSPB Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Visitor Engagement Volunteer
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the reserve before you apply! Spend some time at Loch Ruthven, chat with current volunteers, and soak up the atmosphere. This will not only help you feel more confident during your application but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your bird identification skills! Even if you’re not an expert, knowing a few key facts about the Slavonian grebe and other local wildlife can really impress during your conversations with the team and visitors.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since this role is all about engaging with visitors, try chatting with friends or family about nature and conservation. The more comfortable you are talking about these topics, the better you'll connect with visitors.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to get your application in front of the right people. Plus, it shows that you’re tech-savvy and ready to embrace the digital side of volunteering.
We think you need these skills to ace Visitor Engagement Volunteer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for nature and engaging with visitors.
Show Your Enthusiasm: Make sure to express your excitement about volunteering at Loch Ruthven. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in wildlife conservation and eager to help protect the Slavonian grebes!
Highlight Relevant Skills: If you have any experience in customer service or outdoor activities, mention it! Even basic bird identification skills can be a plus, so don’t hesitate to include anything that shows you’re a good fit for the role.
Follow the Application Process: Remember to apply through our website! It’s super easy, and we’ll make sure your application gets to the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at RSPB
✨Know Your Stuff About the RSPB
Before your interview, do a bit of homework on the RSPB and its mission. Familiarise yourself with their work at Loch Ruthven, especially regarding the Slavonian grebe. This shows your genuine interest and helps you connect with the interviewers.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
Since this role involves engaging with visitors, practice how you would introduce yourself and explain the reserve's importance. Think of a few friendly conversation starters about the wildlife or the reserve itself to demonstrate your enthusiasm for talking to people.
✨Be Prepared for Outdoor Scenarios
The role is outdoors and can be physically demanding. Be ready to discuss your comfort level with outdoor work and any relevant experiences. You might even want to mention how you handle challenges like uneven terrain or working independently.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a couple of questions ready about the volunteer experience or the training provided. This not only shows your interest but also gives you a chance to learn more about what to expect during your time at the reserve.
