Opportunity beckons to study Nightjars, Woodlarks and Dartford Warblers - and to be paid for your research

At repose - a family of nightjars

THE RSPB is currently seeking to recruit four birders to study three key heathland species -  Nightjar, Woodlark and Dartford Warbler.

These are six-month posts that will run from early February 2005 to the end of July 2025.

The pay will be the equivalent of between £12, 445 and £13,160.

What is involved?

Says a society spokesperson: "These are research assistant posts which require experience of conducting fieldwork on lowland heathland, moorland and in conifer plantations, by 1km-square. 

"The post holders should have a good knowledge of the ecology of Nightjars, Woodlarks and Dartford Warblers and should be able to ensure the smooth running of the surveys by dealing diplomatically with all interested parties. 

"Fieldwork will involve long and unsociable hours in the field at priority sites and will be physically demanding over the contract period. 

"Extensive travel to different sites may also be required.

"Applicants must be able to regularly travel to, from and within remote locations not served by public transport. 

"If work from a home base is not possible the post holder will be responsible for finding their own accommodation, though the RSPB will be able to contribute towards costs.

"The precise locations have not been revealed, but they are mainly in southern England."

The surveys will follow the standard national survey methods for each species, with the following survey periods for each species: 

* Woodlark - mid February to late May (two visits to each square)

* Dartford Warbler - early April to late June (two  visits)

* Nightjar - June and July (two visits). 

The fieldwork will include a combination of early mornings, and survey work around dawn and dusk.

What qualifications are required?

Preferably the following:

* Expected to have a degree or equivalent experience.

* Demonstrable specialist knowledge in relevant taxonomic groups appropriate to the post.

Knowledge of conservation issues and scientific principles.

* Knowledge of, and adherence to, legal and practical requirements for ensuring own health and safety, sometimes in challenging field conditions.

* Demonstrable, specialist identification and practical field skills appropriate to the post.

* Ability to use own initiative to solve day-to-day problems in the field

* Ability to be self-motivated and work efficiently within a defined work plan.

* Practical scientific skills of a standard that provides the highest quality data

* Demonstrable experience of relevant research or survey techniques - desirable

* Skilled use of Microsoft Office - desirable

* Knowledge of conservation issues and practice, and conservation science - Desirable

The closing date for applications is December 3, and the RSPB is looking to conduct interviews for this position from  December 9 2024. 

For further information, contact andrew.stanbury@rspb.org.uk; fiona.burns@rspb.org.uk; or simon.wotton@rspb.org.uk.

* Illustrations: The Birds of Great Britain by John Gould

Dartford Warblers

                                               

Woodlarks