RSPB recruiting for Spurn-based beach-nesting field officer for 2026 breeding season

Flypast of Oystercatchers over the Humber near Spurn

THE RSPB is recruiting for a Humber Beach-nesting Birds Field Officer for 16 weeks during the summer 2026 season.

The three species in the spotlight will be Ringed Plover, Little Tern and Oystercatcher.

Says the job description: "We are looking for an enthusiastic, practical person with ecological experience and good communication skills to join our Humber conservation team. 

"The successful candidate will support monitoring and protection of important beach nesting bird populations  on the north bank of the Humber in East Yorkshire.

"Beach nesting birds are a high conservation priority for the RSPB and this role will help towards securing a future for them."

As well as monitoring, additional duties will include:

* Maintenance of seasonal site fencing (including electric fencing), signage, and other infrastructure as required.

* Carrying out predator monitoring duties including deploying and maintaining trail cameras on site.

* Day-to-day engagement with beach users to inform, educate and raise awareness of beach nesting birds and their threats to empower positive behavioural change.

* Supporting a growing team of dedicated volunteers including assisting with inductions and on-site support as needed.

The successful applicant  will work closely with colleagues across organisations such as the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, Spurn Bird Observatory and the Environment Agency.

The post is based at Spurn and  carries a salary equivalent of  £24,571 £26,231 per annum.

The contact for more details is mike.pilsworth@rspb.org.uk.

Closing date for applications is midnight on February 22.

Spurn on a hot and hazy day in summer

Ringed Plovers on the beach at Spurn