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- Tasks: Manage the Isle of Noss Nature Reserve and lead seabird monitoring programmes.
- Company: NatureScot, dedicated to preserving Scotland's natural heritage.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Experience nature up close while making a real difference in conservation.
- Qualifications: Boat handling experience, strong communication skills, and a passion for wildlife.
- Other info: Live on the stunning Isle of Noss with opportunities for personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 40000 £ per year.
The role involves the daily management of the Isle of Noss NNR and delivery of the Reserve Plan. This includes leading the annual seabird monitoring programme, welcoming and supporting visitors, and ensuring the smooth running of the island’s facilities. You will meet all visitors arriving on the island, provide introductory talks, and remain available during their visit to support safety, interpretation and emergency cover. You will operate the inflatable ferry, ensuring safe transport of visitors and staff in variable conditions. You will lead monthly guided walks and support educational groups and specialist visits where required. You will carry out seabird census and productivity monitoring in line with the Isle of Noss monitoring handbook. You will complete monthly and annual monitoring reports and contribute to wider reserve data collection. You will manage the day to day upkeep of residential buildings, paths, signage, visitor facilities, boats and equipment. You will handle ferry fares and cash and deliver these weekly to the office.
Working pattern: The role is based on the Isle of Noss National Nature Reserve. Basic accommodation is provided on the island and you will be expected to live there for the duration of the contract. The role involves outdoor work, boat operations, physical activity and working in exposed conditions. Some flexibility is required to support visitor demand and operational needs.
What we are looking for:
- Experience of boat handling, particularly inflatable powerboats.
- Experience of seabird monitoring, including census and productivity work.
- Strong interpersonal skills and confidence dealing with the public in a visitor facing role.
- Physical fitness and confidence assisting passengers safely to and from boats.
- Ability to work effectively in a small team and live in an isolated environment.
- Good IT skills including email, Word, Excel and electronic record systems.
- Practical ability with tools, equipment and basic infrastructure maintenance.
- Strong written communication skills, including report writing.
- Boat handling and first aid qualifications towards RYA Commercial Endorsement are desirable but not essential.
- Knowledge of British natural history and species identification is desirable.
- Gaelic is desirable but not essential.
What is on offer: Salary of £33,312 for a full time fixed term role. Civil Service Pension Scheme with an employer contribution of 28.97 percent. 41.5 days annual leave including fixed public holidays. Flexi time and flexible working culture where operationally possible. Two days paid volunteering leave. Learning and development tailored to the role. Employee assistance and wellbeing support. Accommodation provided on the island during the season.
How to apply: Apply through the employer’s recruitment portal. Your application goes directly to the employer. No agencies. No nonsense.
Nature Reserve Officer NatureScot employer: The Highland Times
Contact Detail:
The Highland Times Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Nature Reserve Officer NatureScot
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Isle of Noss and its unique environment. Familiarise yourself with seabird species and their behaviours, as this will help you stand out during interviews. We want to see your passion for nature and how you can contribute to the Reserve Plan!
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your boat handling skills! If you’ve got experience with inflatable powerboats, make sure to highlight that. If not, consider taking a short course to boost your confidence and show us you're serious about the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your interpersonal skills. You’ll be dealing with visitors regularly, so practice how you’d welcome them and provide safety information. We love candidates who can communicate effectively and make everyone feel at home on the island.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the quickest way to get your application in front of the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re keen and ready to jump into this exciting opportunity without any fuss.
We think you need these skills to ace Nature Reserve Officer NatureScot
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Nature: When writing your application, let your love for nature and wildlife shine through. Talk about any relevant experiences you've had, whether it's monitoring seabirds or simply enjoying the great outdoors. We want to see that you're genuinely excited about the role!
Highlight Your Skills: Make sure to showcase your boat handling experience and any skills related to seabird monitoring. If you've got strong interpersonal skills, mention how you've successfully interacted with the public in past roles. We’re looking for someone who can confidently engage with visitors!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for the team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our recruitment portal! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details directly. Plus, it shows you’re following our instructions, which is always a good sign!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Highland Times
✨Know Your Nature Reserve
Familiarise yourself with the Isle of Noss National Nature Reserve and its unique features. Understand the seabird monitoring programme and be ready to discuss how you would contribute to the Reserve Plan. Showing genuine interest in the local wildlife and environment will impress your interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Boat Handling Skills
Since experience with inflatable powerboats is crucial, be prepared to talk about your boat handling experience. If you have any relevant qualifications or training, mention them! You might even want to share a story that highlights your skills in challenging conditions.
✨Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills
This role involves a lot of visitor interaction, so highlight your strong interpersonal skills. Think of examples where you've successfully engaged with the public or led groups. Being personable and approachable can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle real-life situations on the island. Prepare for scenarios involving visitor safety, emergency cover, or maintenance tasks. Practising your responses to these practical challenges will help you feel more confident during the interview.
