We currently have a vacancy for two Osprey Protection Officers at Loch of the Lowes.

Working in rural Perthshire, the successful candidates will monitor all aspects of the returning breeding ospreys from their wintering grounds of West Africa.  They will ensure protection of the nest and eggs on a predominantly nightshift working pattern.  Free accommodation on the site’s well equipped and comfortable, eco bothy is available.

Duties include:
•    Observations from the bird hide to ensure protection of birds, eggs and nest.
•    Recording feeding times, parent changeovers and movement of other ospreys, on the reserve. Observing visual monitors overnight to ensure protection of nest.
•    Liaising with local volunteers to ensure permanent 24 hour protection is in place.
•    Liaison with members of the public – answering questions, disseminating information about the ospreys and the law regarding Schedule 1 birds, in an interesting and friendly manner.
•    Liaison with Police Wildlife Crime officer as appropriate.
•    Patrol of reserve on a regular basis.

Familiarity with the species and its threats, knowledge of wild birds and the law, natural history and nature conservation is essential.  A reasonable degree of physical fitness and empathy for working out of doors is important as is excellent organisational and communication skills.  A current UK driving licence is essential and having access to a personal vehicle would be advantageous.

The posts are full-time for two months, with a salary equivalent to £14,040 pa.

The closing date for applications is Wednesday 20th January 2016

*Applicants should be aware that the appointment and duration of these posts depend on the successful return and nesting of the ospreys.

For more information including details of how to apply go to: http://scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/about-the-trust/jobs/