Reserve Warden

WWT is seeking a part-time Reserve Warden to join their team at Castle Espie, a dedicated hub for wetland nature conservation on Strangford Lough.

As a Reserve Warden, you will play a crucial role in supporting the day-to-day management of the reserve, including habitat management, species monitoring, estate maintenance, and visitor engagement activities.

Key responsibilities:

• Assist in delivering the reserve management plan across wetland habitats and the shoreline of Strangford Lough.
• Undertake ecological monitoring, including breeding bird surveys, WeBS counts, and other wildlife surveys.
• Support habitat management, estate maintenance, and infrastructure upkeep across the reserve.
• Safely operate and maintain machinery, tools, and equipment.
• Work alongside volunteers, contractors, and work experience placements, helping to create a positive and rewarding experience.
• Deliver guided walks and engage visitors in understanding wetlands and wildlife conservation.
• Support visitor centre operations when required and contribute to the overall visitor experience.

This is a part-time position, working 22.5 hours per week, including weekend and bank holiday working.

The ideal candidate will have experience in conservation, reserve management, countryside management, or a related environmental field. They will be passionate about wildlife conservation and wetland habitats, practical, self-motivated, and adaptable.

Essential criteria:

• Experience in practical countryside, estate, or conservation land management.
• Experience carrying out ecological fieldwork, wildlife surveying, bird monitoring, or environmental recording.
• Experience using and maintaining land management machinery, tools, and equipment safely.
• Experience working with members of the public, volunteers, or community groups.
• Experience working effectively within a team while also being able to manage workloads independently.
• Knowledge of UK wetland species and habitats.
• Basic IT skills, including Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel.