This is a fixed-term role ending on 1 September 2024, working 30 hours per week. Your working pattern will be Friday to Monday, including weekends and bank holidays to ensure that busy times at the reserve are staffed. We envision a start date in April/May for the successful candidate. The RSPB reserves the right to extend or make this role permanent without further advertising dependent on business needs at the end of the contract term.

The Summer Ranger provides a dedicated staffing presence at Loch Ruthven nature reserve during the Slavonian Grebe breeding season.

You will engage with visitors in a clear, positive and persuasive manner to provide on-site advice to ensure that visitors adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and the Wildlife & Countryside Act. This will involve informing visitors about access restrictions, responsible recreational use of the reserve, and the Slavonian Grebes.

As part of the role, you will also help visitors to enjoy their visit and safely view the Slavonian Grebes from the small hide in conjunction with the Loch Ruthven volunteer team, as well as undertaking desk-based tasks such as preparing signage, emails and meetings. You may also be required to undertake, or assist with, minor maintenance tasks such as repairing boardwalks and litter picking

Applicants must be able to travel daily to Loch Ruthven which is not served by public transport.

Essential skills, knowledge and experience:

• Computer literate.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, to a range of audiences.
• Able to deal with challenging situations in a clear, positive and engaging way.
• Diplomatic and negotiating skills.
• Problem solving skills
• Have a flexible approach to working hours required within the 30 hour week, which will include weekend, evening and morning working.
• Ability to travel to remote locations without the use of public transport.

Desirable skills, knowledge and experience:

• Knowledge of the Scottish Outdoor Access code and general countryside issues.
• Basic maintenance skills e.g. installing signage, basic fencing.
• A working knowledge of visitor management and engagement techniques and/or some experience of working outdoors as a countryside ranger or similar.

More information and to apply  https://www.countryside-jobs.com/job/mar25/summer-ranger-rspb-0502-5