RSBP
Hours: Full Time, 37.5 hours per week
Contract: Fixed Term for 7 months (Starts 31 March 2025)
Are you passionate about seabird conservation? We are looking for a Seabird Research Officer to help deliver our annual programme of seabird monitoring, with a primary focus on productivity.
RSPB Bempton Cliffs is at the heart of the Flamborough and Filey Coast Special Protection Area (SPA), the UK's largest mainland seabird colony. The towering chalk cliffs support eight breeding seabird species and up to 400,000 birds at the height of the summer and includes important migratory species such as Kittiwake, Gannet, Guillemot and Razorbill. Each year, the RSPB undertakes a comprehensive programme of monitoring along this spectacular stretch of the Yorkshire coast and this data reports on the health of the colony and informs the condition of the SPA.
You will play a key role in co-ordinating and delivering this work, as well as supporting, training and leading a team of monitoring volunteers and a full-time seasonal residential volunteer. You will be responsible for the line management of the residential volunteer which includes their training in the appropriate monitoring techniques.
Previous relevant fieldwork experience is essential, as is data analysis, report writing and ability and willingness to work with and lead volunteers as well as engaging with, and presenting to, the general public. Relevant degree desirable. Long hours outdoors in all weathers will be required. This is a 7-month post starting in April to prepare for the busy season ahead which includes ensuring adequate volunteer coverage and preparing the fieldwork kit, and finishes at the end of October allowing for analysis and entry of the data and the production of the annual monitoring report. The cliff tops here are often described as bracing, so if you enjoy windswept cliffs and stunning coastal scenery, this is definitely the place for you. Shared accommodation is provided within our residential volunteer premises (RSPB rental rates apply) which is situated in Bempton village, one mile from the reserve.