Overview

We are looking for individuals to join our residential volunteer conservation internship programme starting in July 2023. We have 6 and 12 month positions North Kent Marshes. Accommodation is provided free of charge.

North Kent Marshes is a collection of 4 lowland wet grassland sites which play a vital role in the landscape connectivity of the south east coast. We want you to be involved in all aspects of reserve management and to 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 gain experience of working 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. The autumn/winter placement starting in July 2023 may include the following:

Practical management of reedbed habitats and learning how to improve reedbeds for key species
Removing trees and scrub from woodland to improve the habitat for nesting birds and various invertebrates
Managing scrub to benefit turtle doves and nightingales
Practical management of wet grassland to benefit a range of species
Conducting bird surveys such as WeBS and BBS
Training in and use of GIS software to produce maps and input biological data
Attending formal accredited training as required by the role
Use and maintenance of a range of machinery
Learning about key reserve management topics such as cross compliance, agri-environment schemes, hydrology and management planning
Monitoring predators of wet grassland birds by conducting surveys, checking trail cameras and mink rafts
Working as part of team to complete practical estate work such as fencing
Training in and use of GIS software to produce maps and input biological data

The 12-month placement will include spring/summer work that will be much more focused on monitoring a number of breeding species such as lapwing, redshank and nightingale among many others.

Career development

We will support your career development by creating a Personal Development Plan and by helping you with application writing and career coaching through regular one to one meetings. These will be conducted by RSPB staff with knowledge of what you need to do to get a career in conservation. Many previous volunteers have been successful in gaining paid employment with the RSPB and other conservation organisations.

Accommodation

Accommodation is provided free of charge on the Northward Hill Reseve, with house hold bills included. The accommodation has electricity, central heating and a shower. There is a TV, DVD player, washing machine, iron, cooker, microwave, fridge, and freezer. The reserves are quite isolated so your own car would be useful but not essential. The nearest supermarkets are located about 5 miles away.

The skills you need

Essential:

–       This is a voluntary position, and you must be over 18.

–       Full, clean UK Driving Licence.

–       We are seeking individuals who have the energy, enthusiasm, and desire to succeed in a career in conservation.

–       You must be prepared to undertake physical work outside in all weathers.

–       Able to work as a team and take responsibility to complete independent work.

–       Good communication skills.

Desirable:

–       This is an entry level role and no previous experience is necessary, but a degree in a conservation or related area is desirable.

–       Knowledge of wildlife and/or ecology is useful.

Your time

Minimum commitment of 6 months is required. Duration of internship is 6 months – 12 months from July 2023 to January 2023/ July 2024.

How to apply

To apply or ask questions about the role please click the buttons on the right hand-side of this page.

The online application form has a question in the ‘About You’ section asking why you have applied for the role. Please complete this like you would a covering letter, for example letting us know a bit about you and why you would make a good candidate. Please also include what placement length (i.e. 6 or 12 month) you are applying for.

Deadline for applications is 5th June 2023.

Interviews will be held week commencing 12th June 2023.

For Further Questions please email Emily Yokouchi:

Emily.yokouchi@rspb.org.uk