Residential Volunteer - North Kent Marshes

We are looking for two enthusiastic individuals to join our residential volunteer programme at North Kent Marshes. The positions will start in February 2025 and run for either 6 months (until August) or 12 months. Accommodation is provided free of charge. As part of the reserve team, you will help to manage four lowland wet grassland sites, collectively known as the North Kent Marshes, which play a pivotal role in the landscape connectivity of the southeast coast. You’ll gain hands-on experience and play a part in improving how the reserves are managed for the diverse range of wildlife they support.

What’s in it for you?

The reserve work programme will provide a wide range of opportunities for you to develop your knowledge and skills in conservation. You will get to work on a range of habitats that may include grazing marsh, reedbed, woodland, saline lagoon and estuarine habitats. The work is very varied and will allow you to gain a wealth of experience necessary for pursuing a career in nature conservation.

A 6-month placement starting in February 2025 may involve the following:

• Conducting breeding bird surveys to monitor species such as lapwing, redshank and nightingale.
• Training in and use of GIS software to produce maps and input biological data.
• Monitoring of predators of wet grassland birds by conducting surveys, checking trail cameras and mink rafts.
• Learning about key reserve management topics such as cross-compliance, agri-environment schemes, hydrology and management planning.
• Practical management of wet grassland to benefit a range of species.
• Attending formal accredited training as required by the role.

A 12-month placement will also involve autumn/winter work such as:

• Practical management of reedbed habitats and learning how to improve reedbeds for key species.
• Removing tree and scrub from woodland to improve the habitat for nesting birds and various invertebrates.
• Managing scrub to benefit turtle doves and nightingales.
• Training in machinery such as brushcutter and chainsaw.

Career Development

Throughout this programme you will develop the skills and knowledge that are vital for a successful career in conservation. We will support your career development by creating a personal development plan which we’ll check in with through regular one to one meetings. We can also help you with application writing and career coaching. Many previous volunteers have been successful in gaining paid employment with the RSPB and other conservation organisations after this programme.

Accommodation

Accommodation is provided free of charge on the Northward Hill Reserve, with household bills and amenities included. Each residential volunteer will have their own room in the house, with a shared bathroom, kitchen and living spaces. Northward Hill is quite isolated so your own car would be useful but not essential. The nearest supermarkets are located 5 miles away.

Your Skills

This is a voluntary position. You must be over 18 with a full clean driving license. We are seeking individuals who have the energy, enthusiasm and desire to succeed in a career in conservation. No previous experience is necessary, but a degree in conservation or related area is desirable and a knowledge of wildlife is useful. You must be prepared to undertake physical work outside in all weathers.

Your Time

A minimum commitment of 6 months is required for this role. The programme will run from February 2025 to August 2025 for a 6-month placement, or from February 2025 to February 2026 for a 12-month placement.