RSPB recruiting now for raptor enthusiast to patrol Pennine reserve for Hen Harriers

                                                         

The reserve covers some 5,000 hectares in beautiful countryside near Brampton in Cumbria (photo: RSPB Images)

THE RSPB is seeking to recruit a raptor enthusiast to serve as a Hen Harrier Protection Office on its reserve at Geltsdale in the North Pennines.

The contract is for four-five months this spring and summer on the equivalent of  £24,571 - £26,231 per annum.

Says the job description: "We are looking for someone with raptor experience and the ability to spend long hours alone in remote and difficult upland terrain.  

"The early part of the contract will concentrate on patrolling the reserve to spot harriers returning and setting up breeding territories.  

"If we have nesting harriers the emphasis will be on watching the nest site and possibly being part of a team of staff and volunteers undertaking 24-hour surveillance."

It adds: "This role will involve lone working and working in remote locations. Candidates will need to be able to meet the rigour of the role.

"There will be occasional weekend, early morning and evening working so the officer will need to be flexible."

Essential skills include:

* A proven track record completing work alone and working within a varied team.

* Good birdwatching and identification skills, particularly of raptors.

* Experience of upland working and navigation.

* Full driving licence valid for use in the UK.

The closing date for applications is January 30 with interviews from February 16.

More information from Steve Garnett at steve.garnett@rspb.org.uk

                                    

Good raptor identification skills required for the post