At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us in hands-on conservation work to protect Devon's native crayfish.
- Company: Wildwood Trust, dedicated to wildlife conservation and restoration.
- Benefits: Gain valuable field experience, expert training, and make a real impact.
- Other info: Unpaid role with flexible commitment, perfect for building your CV.
- Why this job: Help save an endangered species while enjoying stunning coastal landscapes.
- Qualifications: Ideal for students in ecology or related fields, ready for outdoor challenges.
Make a real difference this summer while gaining hands‑on conservation experience. Devon’s white‑clawed crayfish – our only native freshwater crayfish – are on the brink of extinction. Habitat loss, pollution and invasive American signal crayfish have caused dramatic population declines, putting this iconic species at serious risk. The Wildwood Trust is leading the Saving Devon’s Native Crayfish Project (SDNC) to protect and restore Devon’s remaining populations. This summer, we’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join our team as volunteer field surveyors, helping to secure a future for this endangered species.
Alongside a captive breeding programme, SDNC is identifying safe “ark sites” where native crayfish can thrive free from invasive species. These are small, isolated coastal streams in South Devon that flow directly into the sea – beautiful, wild locations with real conservation value.
WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING
As a volunteer, you’ll support field surveys designed to confirm the absence of invasive American signal crayfish. Activities include:
- Setting and checking crayfish traps
- Kick sampling and hand searching
- Surveying streams in stunning South Devon coastal landscapes
You’ll be working alongside licensed crayfish ecologists, who will provide full training, supervision, and all necessary equipment. There will also be opportunities to visit the Wildwood Devon crayfish hatchery and help with white‑clawed crayfish rescue surveys.
WHO THIS IS FOR
This role is ideal for:
- Students or recent graduates in ecology, biology, environmental science, or related fields
- Anyone considering a career in wildlife conservation or field ecology
- People who enjoy practical, outdoor work and are ready for a physical challenge
You’ll gain valuable field survey skills, and insight into real‑world conservation projects.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Time Commitment: 2–3 days per fortnight between late June and late September. Fieldwork is hands‑on and physically demanding. You should be prepared for:
- Walking up to 5km over rugged, hilly, uneven terrain
- Wading in streams and rivers
- Scrambling up and down riverbanks
- Getting hands and arms wet – and often muddy!
WHAT WE OFFER
- Expert training and mentoring by crayfish specialists
- All PPE provided
- Reasonable travel expenses reimbursed
- Insurance cover (registration with the Wildwood Trust required)
Please note: This is an unpaid volunteer role.
WHY VOLUNTEER
This is a chance to contribute directly to the conservation of a species on the edge, build your CV with meaningful field experience, and spend your summer working in some of Devon’s most beautiful hidden waterways.
Volunteer Crayfish Field Surveyors - Devon employer: Wildwoodescot
The Wildwood Trust is an exceptional employer for those passionate about wildlife conservation, offering a unique opportunity to work in the stunning coastal landscapes of South Devon. As a volunteer crayfish field surveyor, you will receive expert training from licensed ecologists, gain hands-on experience in vital conservation efforts, and contribute to the protection of our native species while enjoying the beauty of nature. This role not only enhances your CV but also allows you to be part of a dedicated team committed to making a real difference in the environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Crayfish Field Surveyors - Devon
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the project inside out! Research the Saving Devon’s Native Crayfish Project and understand its goals. This will help you show genuine enthusiasm during any conversations or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or past volunteers and professionals in wildlife conservation. They can provide insights and might even give you a heads-up on opportunities that aren’t widely advertised.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready for hands-on work! Brush up on your outdoor skills and get comfortable with physical tasks. Showing that you’re prepared for the rugged terrain and fieldwork will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and making a difference this summer.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Crayfish Field Surveyors - Devon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for wildlife conservation shine through! We want to see why you care about protecting Devon’s native crayfish and how this role fits into your passion for the environment.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights any relevant experience or skills related to ecology, biology, or outdoor work. We love seeing how your background aligns with our mission, so don’t hold back on showcasing your strengths!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure to answer any questions directly and avoid unnecessary fluff. This helps us get a quick sense of who you are and what you bring to the table.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to make a difference in conservation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wildwoodescot
✨Know Your Crayfish
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge about Devon's white-clawed crayfish and the threats they face. Understanding the conservation efforts and the role of the Saving Devon’s Native Crayfish Project will show your genuine interest and commitment to the cause.
✨Show Your Passion for Conservation
Be ready to share why you’re passionate about wildlife conservation and field ecology. Whether it’s a personal experience or a project you’ve worked on, conveying your enthusiasm can make a lasting impression on the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about your physical readiness for the role. Be honest about your comfort level with outdoor work, rugged terrain, and getting your hands dirty. Highlight any relevant experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle the physical demands of the job.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the training process, the types of surveys you'll be involved in, or the impact of the project. This shows your eagerness to learn and engage with the team, making you a more appealing candidate.
