Seabird Research Officer

About RSPB Bempton

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.

What the role is about

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. 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. 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.

In addition to your core role, you will also assist the Warden with tasks such as a Kittiwake Retrapping Adults for Survival project and the reserves Tree Sparrow Nest Record Scheme, as well as other management tasks where appropriate. There is also the opportunity to be involved with bird ringing and assisting in public ringing demonstrations. For the right candidate there is a lot to be involved in and makes for a fantastic summer filled with seabirds and more!

What we need from you

Essential criteria

• Able to demonstrate previous experience of seabird monitoring and their survey techniques
• Ability to undertake demanding fieldwork in poor weather, long hours in the field, early starts and late finishes
• Sound knowledge of health and safety relevant to the role and working environments
• Self-motivated; able to work safely under own initiative with limited supervision
• Experience of managing, training and supporting volunteers
• Accurate record keeping and legible data collection in the field, to a high standard
• Maintaining quality control throughout all stages of data collection and analysis, as well as ensuing your team adheres to these same standards
• Able to identify British seabirds by sight and some knowledge of the taxonomic group
• Experience of maintaining good working relationships with internal and external colleagues
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; examples of report writing and presenting to groups
• Experience of planning and prioritising workloads with the ability to adapt to factors outside of your control such as weather
• Computer literate to include Microsoft Office, electronic record keeping and data management
• Team player; able to live and work alongside staff and volunteers and support each other as one team
• Full drivers licence which is valid for use in the UK

Desirable criteria

• Relevant degree
• Comfortable being on small boats which carrying out surveys of cliff nesting seabirds
• Some knowledge of seabird ecology and the conservation issues related to them
• Own vehicle which can be used to travel between field sites
• BTO c-permit ringing licence with/or seabird endorsement

Additional Information

This is a Fixed-Term role for 37.5 hours per week. As part of this application process you will be asked to provide a copy of your CV and complete an application form including evidence on how you meet the criteria listed above.

We are looking to conduct interviews for this position from w/c 10th February 2025. For further information please contact [email protected] 

The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

We are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse RSPB, in which everyone feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. To achieve our vision of creating a world richer in nature, we need more people, and more diverse people, on nature’s side. People of colour and disabled people are currently underrepresented across the environment, climate, sustainability, and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we are particularly interested in receiving your application. Contact us to discuss any additional support you may need to complete your application.

The RSPB is a licenced sponsor. This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship - the successful applicant will need to have a pre-existing Right to Work in the UK in order to be offered an employment contract.