Specialist Field Officer

How would you like to be at the cutting edge of delivering a variety of practical land
management solutions across a wide range of some of the most sensitive, protected and treasured
sites throughout England? If that sounds of interest, then RSPB Ecology & Land
Management may just be the what you have been looking for!

The Ecology and Land Management team serve as the contracting land management arm of the RSPB
and a noted ecological consultant within the sector. As such, not only do we actively support
local RSPB reserve teams where specialist work is required, but primarily provide credible,
cost-effective land management solutions on third-party sites for partners, clients and
landowners. 

In developing our expertise and planning contracts, the team always see the bigger picture, but
always ensure we are grounded in the bespoke detail of each site. As such, the team operate as
specialists in working with and on protected landscapes and operate on a thorough understanding
of the natural world. We have the experience and track record to act as a one-stop solution in
planning and delivering competitive, designs and then implementing them on site.

In recent years, the team has grown significantly in response to an increase in contracts and
geographical scope in which we now operate. In this context, an exciting opportunity has become
available for a new Specialist Field Officer to primarily work with the team’s wetland
management, design and creation contracts. 

What we need from you:

This opportunity requires an experienced tractor driver operator, using tractor machinery on
some of the most important wetland sites across the UK.

The machines that you will be operating in will cover a range of toppers but especially the BOS
spoilspreader. We are looking for a skilled operator who has worked in wetland systems and
holds a full tractor operators’ certificate. Training will be given on the BOS machinery as
needed. You will need to be able to work independently, able to solve small mechanical problems
and work remotely. 

While on site, you will be responsible for delivery of technical field conservation work to
ensure that objectives are met and methodologies are followed. Where appropriate, you will also
develop and manage effective relationships with multiple landowners and managers across the
area of fieldwork to ensure project delivery.

You will be also actively be involved in the production of written programmes, report and
tender submissions.

The role requires someone who is passionate about nature and who is committed to achieving the
best possible outcome in delivering land management solutions. We are looking for someone who
is a problem solver, with a “can do” mentality. 

A good team member, but also someone who can maintain motivation while working alone.

Since the team are providing a professional paid service, it is highly important that you have
excellent communication skills and can interact with a variety of stakeholders, clients and
partners. 

The majority of the work will be delivered in South East England, with the occasional trip to
Yorkshire/Lancashire and potentially Scotland as needed, supporting other team members who are
also delivering this type of work elsewhere.

Essential skills include:

• Knowledge and experience of practical habitat and estate management.
• A skilled tractor and machinery operator.
• A proven track record of working of completing work alone and working within a varied team.
• Comfortable managing volunteers from a range of backgrounds
• Reasonable birdwatching knowledge and experience of biological surveys
• A full driving licence which is valid for use in the UK.

Desirable qualifications, knowledge, skills and experience:

• Lantra or equivalent qualification in using equipment such as tractor, PA1/6 pesticides.
• Knowledge of servicing and maintaining vehicles, machinery, tools and equipment to agreed
  standards.
• Experience of staff or volunteer recruitment and line management.
• Implementing and updating health and safety records and assessments.

Additional information:

• This role will involve lone working and working in remote locations.
• This role will require occasional weekend, early morning and evening working so will need
  someone who is able to be flexible.

This is a Permanent Full-Time role for 37.5 hours per week. 

We are looking to conduct interviews for this position from 12th August 2024. For further
information please contact [email protected]

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 skills, knowledge, and experience
listed above.

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

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.