Conservation Officer (Scottish Borders)

Newtown St Boswells, Scottish Borders

£22,911 per annum

Fixed term contract until March 2022

Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels - Developing Community Action (SSRS-DCA) is a project to secure the long-term future of red squirrels in Scotland by building capacity among communities of volunteers and land managers, empowering them to take ownership of some of the essential protection measures required to save the nation’s iconic species.

Our client is currently looking for a conservation professional to develop and implement the Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels project in the Scottish Borders to protect red squirrels in priority landscapes from the replacement by grey squirrels and to support the establishment of strategically targeted networks of community groups and landowners to deliver red squirrel protection long-term.

The post holder will manage a small team of grey squirrel management professionals and work with community engagement colleagues to align the recruitment of new volunteer participants with the regional red squirrel protection strategy. You will organise annual surveys, liaise with stakeholders, provide talks and information and deliver training workshops to promote active involvement of highly motivated and well- trained volunteers.

The successful candidate will possess a relevant degree (or equivalent) in ecology, biology, geography or a related discipline along with working knowledge of wildlife ecology and conservation, especially mammal population management. Alongside this our client is looking for strategic thinking and a high level of motivation. Previous experience in a relevant field is essential.

Staff management experience is important and you will be able to confidently recruit, motivate, train and support staff and volunteers to undertake active conservation work. You should have experience of engaging successfully with land managers, countryside rangers, gamekeepers and the wider public. Experience of working with forestry grant or agri-environment schemes is desirable.

Some out of normal hours working will be required and you must possess a full clean driving licence.

The position is expected to start as soon as possible and run until March 2022