Species on the Edge - Vacancies

Partner organisation: Bumblebee Conservation Trust

Job description: Project Manager (Bees on the Edge)

Reporting to: Bumblebee Conservation Trust Conservation Manager

Reporting to: BBCT

Salary scale: £28,000

Hours: 0.6 FTE for 4 years

Location: Home based in Scotland

Job Purpose summary:

Species on the Edge brings together eight environmental organisations, including NatureScot, Scottish Government’s statutory adviser on nature conservation, to deliver an ambitious, consolidated programme of work across Scotland. Working together, we represent leading species conservation organisations with extensive knowledge and experience, who are joining forces to catalyse the action that species need. We aim to empower island and coastal communities to connect with one another, their local wild places and the special wildlife within.

The post will lead on the coordination of the Bees on the Edge elements of the programme, coordinating action for bee species including Great yellow bumblebee and Northern colletes, across Scotland, and supporting Area Leads in the five relevant landscape areas: Outer Hebrides, Argyll and Inner Hebrides, Orkney, Shetland, and North Coast. The post will also line manage 2 full time Outer Hebrides project staff and provide oversight on delivery of the Outer Hebrides Area Plan. The postholder will ensure that outputs of the Outer Hebrides Area delivery and Bees on the Edge elements across the programme are fed into the wider programme reporting and monitoring.

This role will include: partnership working; project management; line management of project staff; supervising the recruitment and management of volunteers; overseeing the delivery of conservation work; coordinating species and habitat monitoring; coordinating and overseeing an innovative and inclusive package of people engagement activities; public relations; financial management; and teamwork.

Although the post is based with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, it is a multi-taxa role which reflects the ways of working within the wider Species on the Edge project. The post will build on the development phase work to deliver the partners’ objectives and National Lottery Heritage Fund outcomes for biodiversity and for people. Outputs and reporting will be required to be implemented according to the SotE timetable and within budget. The postholder will work in close collaboration with other SotE partners to support NatureScot’s Programme Manager and the wider partnership to deliver the four-year SotE programme. The successful candidate will be organised and able to deliver a clear list of outputs. They will be comfortable working in a diverse, multi-organisation team, with good communication skills and be driven to help others across the project meet our shared goals.

Key tasks and responsibilities:

• Lead on the Bees on the Edge element of the programme and the Outer Hebrides Area delivery by: providing strategic oversight, monitoring and management of project actions and budget, meeting timescales and milestones, and providing expert advice.
• Line manage the Outer Hebrides Project Officer and Outer Hebrides People Engagement Officer.
• Ensure delivery of the Bees on the Edge Species Plan and Outer Hebrides Area Plan.
• Work alongside the SotE People Engagement staff and project partners to deliver a national programme of community and public engagement, specifically providing expert input on outcomes for Bees.
• Input to Species and Area-based governance, advisory subgroups and task-and-finish groups (as relevant), SotE Project Officer meetings, and lead on coordination of project delivery and reporting within BBCT.
• Collate, manage and distribute GIS data including habitat opportunity and connectivity mapping, species records, site surveys, and BeeWalk data, to inform targeting of work and maintain a record of delivery.
• Coordinate delivery of Species Monitoring Plan for Great Yellow Bumblebee, Moss Carder Bee and Northern Colletes
• Work with partners to ensure synergy and a collaborative approach across the project areas and between partners, and develop and monitor multi-taxa outcomes across relevant project areas
• Manage and monitor the BBCT aspects of the SotE programme budget, ensuring delivery is within budget.
• Provide progress reports, maintain accurate records and complete evaluation as required by BBCT and the Species on the Edge partnership
• Carry out your duties with regard to relevant legislation and BBCT’s policies and procedures including health and safety, GDPR and fundraising regulations

Essential skills:

• Budgeting and project management skills and experience.
• Experience of habitat conservation and management.
• Knowledge of bumblebee / pollinator ecology and their habitats .
• Knowledge and demonstrable experience of using Geographic Information Systems, ideally QGIS.
• Computer literate including confident use of MS Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Proven experience of working effectively in partnership with other organisations.
• Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with a wide variety of stakeholders and organisations, in particular farmers, crofters and other landowners or land managers.
• Ability to integrate community and volunteering activity into habitat conservation activities.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to self-motivate and willingness to work remotely.
• Willingness to work occasional weekends or evenings, with overnight stays away from home.
• Driving licence or other means of transport suitable for travel to areas not served by public transport

Desirable skills

• Experience of machair/grassland restoration and management.
• Experience and/or knowledge of insect and habitat surveying.
• Good field and botanical skills, including the ability to identify key pollinator forage plants .
• Good bumblebee identification skills.
• Experience of delivering land management advice to farmers, crofters and/or other land managers.
• Experience of community engagement activities in nature conservation.
• Experience of working with and/or managing volunteers.

Partner organisation - The Bat Conservation Trust

Job description: Project Officer

Reporting to: The Bat Conservation Trust

Salary scale: £25,000 to 27,000 depending on experience

Hours: 0.8 FTE for 4 years

Location: TBC

Job description summary

Species on the Edge brings together eight environmental organisations, including NatureScot, Scottish Government’s statutory adviser on nature conservation, to deliver an ambitious, consolidated programme of work across Scotland. Working together, we represent leading species conservation organisations with extensive knowledge and experience, who are joining forces to catalyse the action that species need. We aim to empower island and coastal communities to connect with one another, their local wild places and the special wildlife within.

Working as a Project Officer for Species on the Edge you will lead on the implementation of the Protecting Scotland’s Island Wonders project, based on Skye, delivering bat survey and monitoring work, volunteer and community coordination and engagement, and landowner/farmer engagement. The post will also deliver the wider Argyll & Inner Hebrides area plan for a range of species on Skye. The post will liaise with partners on delivery for bats in the Solway, East Coast and Orkney areas, with some travel to these areas required.

The post will build on the development phase work to deliver the partners’ objectives and National Lottery Heritage Fund outcomes for biodiversity and for people. This will involve primarily working closely with partnership staff, landowners and local communities to deliver habitat management advice, carry out engagement with local communicates and legacy plans. Working on behalf of the Bat Conservation Trust the post will also work in close collaboration with other SotE partners to support NatureScot’s Programme Manager and the wider partnership to deliver the four-year SotE programme. The post will be focussed on delivering the Island Wonders species project.

Although the post is based with the Bat Conservation Trust, it is a multi-taxon role which reflects the ways of working of the whole programme. Bats are an important component of the biodiversity interest on Skye but there is also moth, invertebrate and bird interest. In addition, a key part of the role will be engagement with stakeholders and communities.

The successful candidate will be organised and able to deliver a clear list of outputs. They will be comfortable working in a diverse, multi-organisation team, with good communication skills and be driven to help others across the project meet our shared goals.

Key tasks and responsibilities:

Partnership working and building relationships with key groups

• Working on Skye to represent the interests of key species present across all taxon groups in working with key stakeholder groups such as farmers, crofters, woodland managers and local communities, building on the network developed during the project development stage.
• Giving specialist bat input on Islay and Mull with some time working with Solway, Orkney and Outer Hebrides areas
• Working alongside the programme People Engagement Officers to deliver a wide range of outreach activities including walks, audio trails and bioblitz.
• Give training on bat ecology, surveys and bat walks to Project Officer’s and People Engagement Officer’s across all project areas.

Monitoring methodology and report writing

• Develop monitoring plans for bats on Skye taking into account volunteer availability and skills levels, use of standardised methods and data requirements.
• Provide written progress reports, maintain accurate records and complete evaluation as required by the Species on the Edge partnership.

Data collation and mapping

• Working with local communities, key groups and landowners, carry out ongoing data collation, distribution mapping and habitat opportunity mapping to inform the rolling programme of targeting landowner and habitat connectivity work for bats on Skye. Using advanced bat detecting equipment on Skye to identify roosts and other hotspots for bats.

Strategic planning

• Working closely with the wider SotE partnership, produce quarterly progress reports, claims and budgets reviews for the delivery phase of Protecting Scotland’s Island Wonders. Reviewing progress and flagging the need for any variance from the accepted delivery plan.

People Engagement

• Work with a youth panel to deliver an audio trail on Skye, under the national Leading Edge programme them

Essential skills:

• Experience of bat survey work using bat detectors
• Experience of project management, including delivery, reporting and budget management
• Experience of reporting to funders
• Data management experience (data recording, comparison, analysis and presentation of findings)
• Experience of working with, and ability to communicate with, a wide range of individuals including landowners, partner organisations, local communities, volunteers and the general public on environmental issues
• An understanding of species and habitat conservation, including practical habitat management
• A good understanding of bat, bird, plant and invertebrate ecology and habitat management
• An understanding of agriculture and agri-environment schemes
• Working with landowners
• Good communication skills, verbal and oral, and ability to present complex and/or novel information to a wide range of audiences
• Well organised and self-motivated; able to plan and prioritise work, using own initiative to meet tight deadlines to complete work to time and budget
• Able to work effectively as a member of a team or on your own or with limited direct supervision
• The ability to use IT applications, including email/internet, word processing, spreadsheets, databases and GIS
• Driving licence or other means of transport suitable for travel to areas not served by public transport
• Pragmatic, innovative, enthusiastic and able to motivate others
• Able to manage potential conflicts by dealing with people in a calm and professional manner.
• Willing to work some weekends and evenings and away from home on occasions

Desirable skills

• Holds bat roost visitor license and ideally more advanced license for harp trapping
• Experience of bird, plant, invertebrate survey work.
• Direct experience of delivering projects for the National Lottery Heritage Fund or other funders
• Experience in developing and delivering engagement activities for a broad audience
• Experience in devising training workshops of programmes for professionals and/or volunteers
• Experience of contract management and overseeing contractors
• Knowledge and understanding of species recording schemes
• Familiarity with Scottish coastal habitats and the unique challenges and opportunities for conservation
• Gaelic speaker

Qualifications

• A minimum of 5 GCSEs, or equivalent.

Please note, the role may involve working with children and vulnerable adults and so a Protecting Vulnerable Groups Scheme (PVG) check will be carried out for the successful candidate and any offer of employment will be subject to a satisfactory PVG check.

Partner organisation - Buglife

Job description: Project Officer

Reporting to: Buglife

Salary scale: £25,732.71

Hours: 0.8 FTE for 4 years

Location: Home working based in Argyll & the Inner Hebrides

Job description summary

Species on the Edge brings together eight environmental organisations, including NatureScot, Scottish Government’s statutory adviser on nature conservation, to deliver an ambitious, consolidated programme of work across Scotland. Working together, we represent leading species conservation organisations with extensive knowledge and experience, who are joining forces to catalyse the action that species need. We aim to empower island and coastal communities to connect with one another, their local wild places and the special wildlife within.

This role will involve working closely with Species on the Edge (SotE) partnership staff, landowners and local communities to deliver habitat management advice, survey and monitoring, and delivering engagement activities with local communicates. Working from within Buglife, the post will work in close collaboration with other SotE partners to support the SotE Programme Manager and the wider partnership to deliver the SotE programme. The post will focus on delivering the Invertebrates on the Edge species project, as well as delivering the wider Argyll & Inner Hebrides area plan for a range of species. The post will also liaise with partners on delivery for Northern colletes in the Outer Hebrides, with some travel to these areas required.

The Species on the Edge Project Officer will conserve invertebrates and their habitats by influencing others, and by managing and enhancing the environment. This role will include practical project management and delivery; partnership working; overseeing practical habitat management works; developing and delivering innovative ideas and solutions to engaging local communities with invertebrates and their conservation; managing volunteers; public relations; financial management and teamwork.

The Species on the Edge Project Officer will be responsible for delivering outreach and public engagement activities that will raise awareness of the importance of species, how to identify and record them, and what actions individuals and community groups can take to help them. This will include organising and running workshops and other events as part of the Species on the Edge programme.

This role will include raising awareness of a range of invertebrate groups and species including Medicinal leech, Short-necked oil beetles and insect pollinators (such as Northern colletes mining bee). The Project Officer will work with other Species on the Edge staff in Argyll and the Inner Hebrides to deliver multi-taxa activities and engagement work with local communities.

The successful candidate will be organised and able to deliver a clear list of outputs. They will be comfortable working in a diverse, multi-organisation team, with good communication skills and be driven to help others across the project meet our shared goals.

Key tasks and responsibilities:

• Project management, including project development, delivery, relationship management, appropriate financial planning, reporting to funders, PR and co-ordination as appropriate to Species on the Edge objectives.
• Organise field meetings, assist with the preparation of survey reports, provide habitat management advice and work in partnership with other specialists.
• Supervise volunteers and contractors and contribute to their recruitment as appropriate.
• Advise colleagues, community groups, landowners.
• Maintain and develop own knowledge and skills.
• Advance the key Species on the Edge messages to external audiences and fellow professionals through talks, tours, literature, displays and workshops.
• Maintain effective financial records and adhere to full cost recovery principles.
• Educate others through public outreach, talks, seminars, training and development, walks, workshops and conference speech making.
• Act as a strong team member internally and externally to deliver Species on the Edge programme targets.
• Educate and inform others, including policy makers, local communities, conservation organisations, developers, land managers and site managers via public speaking at conferences and events, development of educational materials, relationship building and use of social media.
• Respond to public enquiries professionally and in accordance with agreed procedure.
• Promote and educate around the study of poorly recorded, declining or endangered groups of species
• Prepare media releases, produce promotional material, publicise events and give media interviews when requested.
• Build and maintain external relationships which secure delivery of Species on the Edge.

Essential skills:

• Knowledge of a range of invertebrate groups (particularly an interest in freshwater invertebrates, pollinating insects and/or beetles).
• Knowledge about working with protected species
• Experience managing contracts and contractors
• Demonstrable dedication to protecting the environment and conserving wildlife.
• Good level of ecological knowledge and understanding of conservation issues.
• Project management, financial knowledge and experience.
• Experience of raising public awareness of wildlife and environmental issues.
• Experience of organising events and involving the public in projects.
• Some botanical knowledge
• Driving licence or other means of transport suitable for travel to areas not served by public transport

Other desirable skills

• Experience of partnership working
• Experience of lottery funded projects
• Fundraising capability including for projects outside own area of expertise.
• Experience of community engagement activities in nature conservation.
• Experience of working with and/or managing volunteers.

Communication skills

• Confident communicator, able to speak to a wide range of audiences
• Able to write clear and informative articles, leaflets and briefing materials
• Ability to collate and present inf
• Potential to work with television, radio and on-line to promote issues and activities
• Able to develop and maintain external partnerships including with organisations and members of the public

People Management

• Supervise volunteers and contribute to their recruitment as appropriate.
• Manage the Health and Safety of self and any direct reports or volunteers.
• Comply with legislation related to wildlife and the operation of charities and businesses and adhere to internal policies.

Other relevant factors

Occasional longer hours and attendance at meetings and events outside normal working hours including weekends, sometimes working away from home for periods of more than one day or undertaking longer distance travel.

Partner organisation - Butterfly Conservation

Job description: Project Officer

Reporting to: Butterfly Conservation

Salary scale: £25,533 - £29,498 pa dependent on experience, plus 8% pension contribution

Hours: 1 FTE for 4 years

Location: Home working based in North Argyll or Isle of Mull

Job purpose summary

Species on the Edge brings together eight environmental organisations, including NatureScot, Scottish Government’s statutory adviser on nature conservation, to deliver an ambitious, consolidated programme of work across Scotland. Working together, we represent leading species conservation organisations with extensive knowledge and experience, who are joining forces to catalyse the action that species need. We aim to empower island and coastal communities to connect with one another, their local wild places and the special wildlife within.

Working as a Project Officer for Species on the Edge you will lead on the implementation of the Brighter Futures for Herb Rich Pastures project within the Argyll and Inner Hebrides area, leading on delivery of survey and monitoring work, habitat management, volunteer coordination and landowner/farmer engagement relating to Marsh Fritillary and several species of rare Burnet moth. Working on behalf of the wider Species on the Edge partnership the post will deliver a range of activities to benefit a variety of multi-taxa priority species, including empowering local communities to take positive actions to secure the future of these species.

This role will involve working closely with Species on the Edge (SotE) partnership staff, landowners and local communities to deliver habitat management advice, survey and monitoring and engagement activities with local communicates. Working from within Butterfly Conservation the post will work in close collaboration with other SotE partners to support the SotE Programme Manager and the wider partnership to deliver the SotE programme. Collaboration with partners is key to ensure the project is delivered according to the timetable and budget. The role also includes promoting the project and delivering a wide-ranging people engagement activity programme.

Although the post is based with Butterfly Conservation, it is a multi-taxa role which reflects the ways of working within the wider Species on the Edge project.

The successful candidate will be organised and able to deliver a clear list of outputs. They will be comfortable working in a diverse, multi-organisation team, with good communication skills and be driven to help others across the project meet our shared goals.

Key tasks and responsibilities

• Put in place integrated multi-taxa work plans to maximise the resilience of the environment
• Build resilience in local organisations so that communities can deliver long-term species conservation activity
• Engage a diverse range of participants with coastal and island wildlife by creating new opportunities for involvement
• Working collaboratively, embed the importance of species as the heart of conservation action.
• Lead and be responsible for the successful delivery of the SotE Brighter Futures for Herb Rich Pastures project.
• Lead on the development and implementation of surveys and monitoring for target lepidoptera species.
• Raise awareness of the plight of the species and the natural environment
• Coordinate community volunteers to carry out survey, monitoring and exploration to better understand species’ needs and inform conservation action.
• Work with landowners, contractors, farmers and community volunteers to manage, create and restore habitats to provide safe havens for these species
• Manage the budget for the project including the day-to-day project finances, reporting quarterly on financial performance within National Lottery Heritage Fund and internal set procedures.
• Represent the project externally, liaising with project partners and coordinating with third parties (including landowners and contractors) to secure good engagement and support throughout delivery.
• Coordinate input from other specialists within BC and partner organisations.
• Build and maintain external relationships which secure delivery of Species on the Edge and provide legacy opportunities.

Essential skills:

• At least two years of experience delivering projects in the conservation sector
• Extensive experience of species and habitat conservation, including practical habitat management
• A good understanding of the ecology of moths, butterflies, birds and bats
• Experience overseeing contractors.
• Experience of working with volunteers and community groups to deliver targeted conservation action
• Experience of working with and advising landowners
• Experience of successfully working in partnership with organisations such as NatureScot and other NGOs to deliver conservation projects
• Experience of delivering inspiring engagement activities for a broad audience
• Experience in devising training workshops of programmes for professionals and/or volunteers
• Driving licence or other means of transport suitable for travel to areas not served by public transport
• The ability to use IT applications, including email/internet, word processing, spreadsheets, databases and GIS
• Experience of managing project budgets
• Experience of reporting to funders.
• Empathy with the aims and objectives of SotE and partners
• Well organised and self-motivated; able to plan and undertake work on your own (or with limited direct supervision)
• Able to prioritise, meet tight deadlines and use own initiative
• Flexible: able to rapidly assimilate information and adapt to a changing environment
• Able to work effectively and positively as a member of a team
• Pragmatic, innovative, enthusiastic and able to motivate others
• Able to manage potential conflicts by dealing with people in a calm and professional manner
• Willing to work some weekends and evenings (away from home on occasions)

Desirable skills

• Experience of working with rural communities
• Familiarity with Scottish coastal habitats and the unique challenges and opportunities for conservation
• Experience with GIS
• Data management experience (data recording, comparison, analysis and presentation of findings)
• Knowledge/understanding of species recording schemes

Qualifications

• Educated to degree/HND level in a biological or environmental science, or equivalent experience

Partner organisation - RSPB Scotland

Reporting to: RSPB Scotland

Salary scale: £23,939 - £26,558 pro-rata

Hours: 1 FTE for 4 years

Location: Islay, Colonsay, Oronsay, Coll and Tiree

Job description summary

Do you want to work in conservation in one of the most spectacular parts of the UK, helping safeguard some of Scotland’s rarest species? Species on the Edge is an ambitious conservation project designed to improve the conservation prospects of over 30 species found on Scotland’s coasts and islands. As a Project Officer based in the Argyll Islands you will be the delivery arm of the project working with landowners, volunteers, partners and members of the community to conserve a suite of species.

Species on the Edge brings together eight environmental organisations, including NatureScot, Scottish Government’s statutory adviser on nature conservation, to deliver an ambitious, consolidated programme of work across Scotland. Working together, we represent leading species conservation organisations with extensive knowledge and experience, who are joining forces to catalyse the action that species need. We aim to empower island and coastal communities to connect with one another, their local wild places and the special wildlife within.

The post will lead on the local delivery of the Species on the Edge project in the Inner Hebrides. This will involve the implementation of the Area Delivery Plan, in collaboration with partners, to ensure the project is delivered according to the timetable and budget. The role includes promoting the project, leading on people engagement and coordination of all the project activities. This includes delivery of a range of management activities to benefit a variety of priority species and includes empowering / enabling communities to take positive actions to secure the future of these species. Activities will range from species monitoring, and habitat management and advisory work to volunteer recruitment and training and the development of interpretation materials and engagement events. Post holder will lead on delivering work for iconic species such as chough, corncrake and Great Yellow bumblebee.

What we need from you

This an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic, positive and self-motivated project officer to work within our area team you will ideally have experience of delivering conservation and partnership working including: –

Key tasks and responsibilities:

• Species monitoring - manage a programme of monitoring for target species, and associated data analysis and annual reporting.
• Undertake and co-ordinate a range of habitat management projects to benefit a variety of priority species. This will include work to identify additional sites suitable for management.
• Providing advice for land managers to benefit target species, including development of Site Management Plans and agreeing work with landowners.
• Delivering a range of Sharing Good Practice and training events, to bring together land managers to learn and share best practice habitat management.
• Volunteer training programme – develop and administer volunteering programme to support delivery of the project aims including volunteer recruitment and training.
• Develop a framework of local species champions Ambassador schools.
• Ensure collaboration with partners through coordinating species project meetings and project Management and Legacy Group.
• Produce agreed project documentation / reporting.
• Project promotion, talks and events.
• Experience in implementing an engagement programme for local communities and visitors covering a wide range of engagement activities such as walks and podcasts etc.
• Preparation of publicity and education materials.
• Carry out your duties with regard to RSPB Scotland’s policies and procedures including health and safety regulations.

Essential skills:

• The ability to communicate about the project in a passionate and credible manner.
• Project management skills – including working with project teams and stakeholders; delivering at cost and on time.
• Demonstrate the ability to work well as part of a cross-functional project team.
• Proven experience delivering surveys, habitat management and provision of advice to landowners.
• An ability to persuade and influence a wide range of people, both internally and externally.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to find creative solutions.
• Able to work under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Proven time management and organisational skills.
• Organising training events, workshops or facilitated discussions and meetings
• Experience of managing staff and volunteers
• Demonstrable experience of developing and working in partnerships to achieve shared outcomes
• Competent IT user (e.g. MS packages, Outlook etc) and experience with GIS
• Attention to detail and able to produce clear written communications
• Driving licence or other means of transport suitable for travel to areas not served by public transport
• Eligibility to work in the UK.

Desirable skills

• Good knowledge of Inner Hebridean natural environment and SotE target species - sufficient to lead project and engagement activities in a credible way and train and motivate volunteers).
• Experience of working with contractors.
• Understanding of the legislation behind protected species and protected sites.
• Knowledge or experience of land management schemes, especially Agri-Environment Climate Scheme.
• Experience of producing management plans for nature conservation.
• Experience of producing written materials, newsletters and similar project related communications.
• Geographical knowledge of area.

Partner organisation - Buglife

Job description: Project Officer

Reporting to: Buglife

Salary scale: £25,732.71

Hours: 1 FTE for 4 years

Location: Home working based on the East Coast

Job description summary

Species on the Edge brings together eight environmental organisations, including NatureScot, Scottish Government’s statutory advisers on nature conservation, to deliver an ambitious, consolidated programme of work across Scotland. Working together, we represent leading species conservation organisations with extensive knowledge and experience, who are joining forces to catalyse the action that species need. We aim to empower island and coastal communities to connect with one another, their local wild places and the special wildlife within.

This role will involve working closely with Species on the Edge (SotE) partnership staff, landowners and local communities to deliver habitat management advice, survey and monitoring, and delivering engagement activities with local communicates. Working from within Buglife the post will work in close collaboration with other SotE partners to support the SotE Programme Manager and the wider partnership to deliver the SotE programme. The post will focus on delivering the Invertebrates on the Edge species project, as well as delivering the wider East coast area plan for a range of species.

The Project Officer will conserve species and their habitats by influencing others, and by managing and enhancing the environment. This role will include practical project management and delivery; partnership working; overseeing practical habitat management works; developing and delivering innovative ideas and solutions to engaging local communities with species and their conservation; managing volunteers; public relations; financial management and teamwork.

The Project Officer will be responsible for delivering outreach and public engagement activities that will raise awareness of the importance of species, how to identify and record them, and what actions that individuals and community groups can take to help them. This will include the organising and running of workshops and other events as part of the Species on the Edge programme.

This role will include raising awareness of a range of local invertebrate groups and species including Bordered brown lacewing, Small blue butterflies, and other insect pollinators. The Project Officer will work with other Species on the Edge staff on the East Coast to deliver multi-taxa activities and engagement work with local communities.

The successful candidate will be organised and able to deliver a clear list of outputs. They will be comfortable working in a diverse, multi-organisation team, with good communication skills and be driven to help others across the project meet our shared goals.

Key tasks and responsibilities:

• Project management, including project development, delivery, relationship management, appropriate financial planning, reporting to funders, PR and co-ordination as appropriate to Species on the Edge objectives.
• Organise field meetings, assist with the preparation of survey reports, provide habitat management advice and work in partnership with other specialists.
• Supervise volunteers and contractors and contribute to their recruitment as appropriate.
• Advise colleagues, community groups, landowners.
• Maintain and develop own knowledge and skills.
• Advance the key Species on the Edge messages to external audiences and fellow professionals through talks, tours, literature, displays and workshops.
• Maintain effective financial records and adhere to full cost recovery principles.
• Educate others through public outreach, talks, seminars, training and development, walks, workshops and conference speech making.
• Act as a strong team member internally and externally to deliver Species on the Edge programme targets.
• Educate and inform others, including policy makers, local communities, conservation organisations, developers, land managers and site managers via public speaking at conferences and events, development of educational materials, relationship building and use of social media.
• Respond to public enquiries professionally and in accordance with agreed procedure.
• Promote and educate around the study of poorly recorded, declining or endangered groups of species.
• Prepare media releases, produce promotional material, publicise events and give media interviews when requested.
• Build and maintain external relationships which secure delivery of Species on the Edge.

Essential skills:

• Knowledge of a range of invertebrate groups (particularly an interest in butterflies and lacewings).
• Experience recruiting and managing volunteers.
• Ability to integrate community and volunteering activity into habitat conservation activities.
• Demonstrable dedication to protecting the environment and conserving wildlife.
• Good level of ecological knowledge and understanding of conservation issues.
• Project management, financial knowledge and experience.
• Experience of raising public awareness of wildlife and environmental issues.
• Experience of organising events and involving the public in projects.
• Some botanical knowledge
• Driving licence or other means of transport suitable for travel to areas not served by public transport

Desirable skills

• Experience of partnership working
• Experience of lottery funded projects
• Fundraising capability including for projects outside own area of expertise.

Communication skills

• Confident communicator, able to speak to a wide range of audiences
• Able to write clear and informative articles, leaflets and briefing materials
• Ability to collate and present information from a variety of sources
• Potential to work with television, radio and on-line to promote issues and activities
• Able to develop and maintain external partnerships including with organisations and members of the public

People Management

• Supervise volunteers and contribute to their development.
• Manage the Health and Safety of self and any direct reports or volunteers.
• Comply with legislation related to wildlife and the operation of charities and businesses and adhere to internal policies.

Other relevant factors

Occasional longer hours and attendance at meetings and events outside normal working hours including weekends, sometimes working away from home for periods of more than one day or undertaking longer distance travel.

Partner organisation - Butterfly Conservation

Job description: Project Officer

Reporting to: Butterfly Conservation

Salary scale: £25,533 - £29,498 pa dependent on experience, plus 8% pension contribution

Hours: 1 FTE for 4 years

Location: Home working based in Easter Ross, Inverness or Moray areas

Job purpose summary

Species on the Edge brings together eight environmental organisations, including NatureScot, Scottish Government’s statutory adviser on nature conservation, to deliver an ambitious, consolidated programme of work across Scotland. Working together, we represent leading species conservation organisations with extensive knowledge and experience, who are joining forces to catalyse the action that species need. We aim to empower island and coastal communities to connect with one another, their local wild places and the special wildlife within.

Working as a Project Officer for Species on the Edge you will lead on the implementation of the project within the East Coast area (Moray). You will lead on the delivery of survey and monitoring work, habitat management, volunteer coordination and landowner engagement relating to a number of species including Small Blue and Northern Brown Argus. This includes delivery of a range of activities to benefit a variety of multi-taxa priority species and includes empowering local communities to take positive actions to secure the future of these species.

This role will involve working closely with Species on the Edge (SotE) partnership staff, landowners and local communities to deliver habitat management advice, survey and monitoring, and delivering engagement activities with local communicates. Working from within Butterfly Conservation the post will work in close collaboration with other SotE partners to support the SotE Programme Development Manager and the wider partnership to deliver the SotE programme.

Collaboration with partners is key to ensure the project is delivered according to the timetable and budget. The role also includes promoting the project and delivering a wide-ranging people engagement activity programme.

Although the post is based with Butterfly Conservation, it is a multi-taxa role which reflects the ways of working within the wider Species on the Edge project.

The successful candidate will be organised and able to deliver a clear list of outputs. They will be comfortable working in a diverse, multi-organisation team, with good communication skills and be driven to help others across the project meet our shared goals.

Key tasks and responsibilities

• Put in place integrated multi-taxa work plans to maximise the resilience of the environment
• Build resilience in local organisations so that communities can deliver long-term species conservation activity
• Working collaboratively, embed the importance of species as the heart of conservation action.
• Lead and be responsible for the successful delivery of the SotE Rockin’ the Blues project.
• Lead on the development and implementation of surveys and monitoring for target lepidoptera species and other species.
• Raise awareness of the plight of the species and the natural environment
• Coordinate community volunteers to carry out survey, monitoring and exploration to better understand species’ needs and inform conservation action.
• Work with landowners, contractors, farmers and community volunteers to manage, create and restore habitats to provide safe havens for these species
• Manage the budget for the project including the day-to-day project finances, reporting quarterly on financial performance within National Lottery Heritage Fund and internal set procedures.
• Represent the project externally, liaising with project partners and coordinating with third parties (including landowners and contractors) to secure good engagement and support throughout delivery.
• Coordinate input from other specialists within BC and partner organisations.
• Build and maintain external relationships which secure delivery of Species on the Edge and provide legacy opportunities.

Essential skills:

• At least two years of experience delivering projects in the conservation sector
• Extensive experience of species and habitat conservation, including practical habitat management
• A good understanding of the ecology of invertebrates, plants and birds
• Experience overseeing contractors.
• Experience of working with volunteers and community groups to deliver targeted conservation action
• Experience of working with and advising landowners
• Experience of successfully working in partnership with organisations such as NatureScot and other NGOs to deliver conservation projects
• Experience of delivering inspiring engagement activities for a broad audience
• Experience in devising training workshops of programmes for professionals and/or volunteers
• Driving licence or other means of transport suitable for travel to areas not served by public transport
• The ability to use IT applications, including email/internet, word processing, spreadsheets, databases and GIS
• Experience of managing project budgets
• Experience of reporting to funders.
• Empathy with the aims and objectives of SotE and partners
• Well organised and self-motivated; able to plan and undertake work on your own (or with limited direct supervision)
• Able to prioritise, meet tight deadlines and use own initiative
• Flexible: able to rapidly assimilate information and adapt to a changing environment
• Able to work effectively and positively as a member of a team
• Pragmatic, innovative, enthusiastic and able to motivate others
• Able to manage potential conflicts by dealing with people in a calm and professional manner
• Willing to work some weekends and evenings (away from home on occasions)

Desirable skills

• Experience of working with rural communities
• Familiarity with Scottish coastal habitats and the unique challenges and opportunities for conservation
• Experience with GIS
• Data management experience (data recording, comparison, analysis and presentation of findings)
• Knowledge/understanding of species recording schemes

Qualifications

• Educated to degree/HND level in a biological or environmental science, or equivalent experience

Partner organisation - Plantlife

Job description: Senior Project Officer

Reporting to: Plantlife

Salary: £29,000

Hours: 1 FTE for 4 years

Location: North Coast (Caithness/Sutherland)

Job description summary

The Senior Project Officer will be responsible for leading and coordinating the north coast area element of the Species on the Edge programme.

Species on the Edge brings together eight environmental organisations, including NatureScot, Scottish Government’s statutory adviser on nature conservation, to deliver an ambitious, consolidated programme of work across Scotland. Working together, we represent leading species conservation organisations with extensive knowledge and experience, who are joining forces to catalyse the action that species need. We aim to empower island and coastal communities to connect with one another, their local wild places and the special wildlife within.

The Senior Project Officer will coordinate the north coast activities for this project, supported by a people engagement officer. The role will be responsible for the day-to-day delivery of the project, ensuring that it is delivered in line with the project plan. Leading an exciting programme of species surveys and monitoring, land manager engagement and outreach, this role will showcase a multi-taxa approach to species conservation, delivering work on a range of threatened species. Working closely with project partners, the postholder will collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders, and will be a confident, inspirational figurehead for the project within the project area. The postholder will need to enjoy working with people and be able to effectively engage and support a team remotely.

Key tasks and responsibilities:

• Be the figure-head for the Species on the Edge project on the north coast, leading and managing all aspects of the project to ensure it is delivered within budget, scope, and timescales.
• Line manage the north coast People Engagement Officer
• Manage the budget for the project including the day to day project finances, reporting quarterly on financial performance within National Lottery Heritage Fund and internal set procedures.
• Represent the project externally, liaising with project partners and coordinating with third parties (including landowners and contractors) to secure good engagement and support throughout delivery.
• Coordinate input from other specialists within Plantlife and partner organisations.
• Lead on the development and implementation of surveys for target species.
• Lead on the development and delivery of land manager advice
• Lead on the development of a monitoring strategy to evaluate the impact of interventions.
• Report on project progress quarterly, within National Lottery Heritage Fund and internal set procedures.
• Observe Plantlife’s working policies at all times, including those on Health and Safety and Equal Opportunities.
• Any other reasonable duties / activities as specified by Plantlife.

Essential skills:

• Qualification or demonstrable experience in habitat management, ecology / environment science
• Botanical and/ or invertebrate identification and monitoring skills
• At least two years’ experience of wildlife conservation management
• Experience of working with landowners and land managers to provide conservation advice
• Excellent understanding of the natural and cultural heritage of rural Scotland, including an understanding of different land uses, tourism, outdoor recreation and the current pressures and threats facing the rural areas.
• Proven project management experience.
• Excellent written and spoken English
• Excellent IT skills, especially Microsoft Office
• Ability to multi-task and prioritise effectively
• Good time-management and organisational skills
• Strong people skills evidenced by a friendly, polite and helpful manner
• Demonstrable ability to work effectively as part of a team
• Flexible working style and commitment
• Supportive and energetic
• Ability to integrate community and volunteering activity into habitat conservation
• Driving licence or other means of transport suitable for travel to areas not served by public transport

Desirable skills

• Experience of working with volunteers and communities.
• Experience of representing organisations at public events.
• Experience of delivering a National Lottery Heritage Fund or similar project.

Qualifications

• Qualification or demonstrable experience in habitat management, ecology / environment science

Partner organisation - Plantlife

Job description: Senior Project Officer

Reporting to: Plantlife

Salary: £25,000

Hours: 0.6 FTE for 4 years

Location: North Coast (Caithness/Sutherland)

Job description summary

The People Engagement Officer will be responsible for delivering key elements of the Species on the Edge programme on Scotland’s north coast, with a focus on community engagement, citizen science and outreach work.

Species on the Edge brings together eight environmental organisations, including NatureScot, Scottish Government’s statutory adviser on nature conservation, to deliver an ambitious, consolidated programme of work across Scotland. Working together, we represent leading species conservation organisations with extensive knowledge and experience, who are joining forces to catalyse the action that species need. We aim to empower island and coastal communities to connect with one another, their local wild places and the special wildlife within.

The People Engagement Officer will coordinate the north coast outreach and education activities for this project, supported by a project officer. Leading an exciting and innovative community engagement programme, the postholder will ensure that Species on the Edge is integrated into the communities of the north coast, empowering people to take action for species. The postholder will have excellent creative, communication and organisational skills and experience of working in partnership projects.

Key tasks and responsibilities:

Deliver a programme of community engagement events, using a blended approach of digital communication tools and in-person events and activities to involve a wide range of people in the Species on the Edge programme. Specifically working with schools and young people, local communities and landowners to increase people’s understanding of rare and vulnerable species and to empower them to take action to save them.

• To support the project officer in the gathering of biological data, using citizen science approaches to maximise the impact of the project for conservation and community empowerment,
• To interpret and present the data to different community audiences using digital tools to produce impactful evergreen content.
• Contribute to the evaluation of the project.
• Contribute to quarterly reporting on project progress and finances.
• Observe Plantlife’s working policies at all times, including those on Health and Safety and Equal Opportunities.
• Any other reasonable duties / activities as specified by Plantlife.

Essential skills:

• A sound understanding of general environmental and conservation issues.
• A strong understanding of the current issues faced by rural communities.
• Experience of working in the conservation/NGO sector
• Experience of working with community groups or disadvantaged/excluded groups.
• Experience of working with and training volunteers
• The ability to harness good working relationships within Plantlife and with partner organisations.
• Experience of developing and delivery a programme of creative activities with local communities.
• Excellent written and spoken English
• Excellent IT skills, especially Microsoft Office
• Ability to multi-task and prioritise effectively
• Good time-management and organisational skills
• Strong people skills evidenced by a friendly, polite and helpful manner
• Demonstrable ability to work effectively as part of a team
• Flexible working style and commitment
• Supportive and energetic
• Driving licence or other means of transport suitable for travel to areas not served by public transport

Desirable skills

• Skills in using digital communication tools, data collection and presentation techniques
• Botanical and/ or invertebrate identification and monitoring skills

Partner organisation - RSPB Scotland

Job description: Project Officer

Reporting to: RSPB Scotland

Salary scale: £23,939 - £26,558

Hours: 1 FTE for 4 years

Location: Orkney

Job description summary

Species on the Edge brings together eight environmental organisations, including NatureScot, Scottish Government’s statutory adviser on nature conservation, to deliver an ambitious, consolidated programme of work across Scotland. Working together, we represent leading species conservation organisations with extensive knowledge and experience, who are joining forces to catalyse the action that species need. We aim to empower island and coastal communities to connect with one another, their local wild places and the special wildlife within.

The post will lead on the local delivery of the Species on the Edge project in Orkney. This will involve the implementation of the Area Delivery Plan, in collaboration with partners, to ensure the project is delivered according to the timetable and budget.

The role includes promoting the project in addition to coordinating all the project activities. This includes a range of activities to benefit a variety of vulnerable species through empowering and enabling local communities to take positive actions to secure and improve the future of these species. Activities will range from species monitoring and habitat management advisory work to volunteer recruitment and training and the development of interpretation materials.

Key tasks and responsibilities:

• Species monitoring - undertake a programme of monitoring for target species, and associated data analysis and annual reporting
• Undertake and co-ordinate a range of habitat management to benefit a variety of taxa. This will include work to identify additional sites suitable for management.
• Providing 1:1 advice for land managers benefitting target species, including development of Site Management Plans and agree work with landowners
• Delivering a range of Sharing Good Practice and training events, to bring together land managers to learn and share best practice habitat management
• Volunteer training programme – develop and administer volunteering programme to support delivery of the project aims including volunteer recruitment and training
• Develop a framework of local species champions Ambassador schools
• Ensure collaboration with partners through co-ordinating species project meetings and project Management and Legacy Group
• Produce agreed project documentation / reporting
• Project promotion, talks and events
• Preparation of publicity and education materials
• Carry out your duties with regard to RSPB Scotland’s policies and procedures including health and safety regulations.

Essential skills:

• The ability to communicate about the project in a passionate and credible manner
• An ability to produce clear written communications
• An ability to persuade and influence a wide range of people, both internally and externally
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to find creative solutions
• Able to work under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Proven time management and organisational skills
• Attention to detail
• Working with project teams and stakeholders
• Proven experience delivering surveys, habitat management and provision of advice to landowners
• Ability to work well as part of a cross-functional project team
• Organising training events, workshops or facilitated discussions and meetings
• Experience of managing staff and volunteers
• Demonstrable experience of developing and working in partnerships to achieve shared outcomes
• Competent IT user (e.g. MS packages, Outlook etc) and experience with GIS
• Driving licence or other means of transport suitable for travel to areas not served by public transport
• Eligibility to work in the UK.

Desirable skills

• Experience of working with contractors
• Experience of producing written materials, newsletters and similar project related communications
• Geographical knowledge of location

Qualifications

• Educated to degree or HND level in a biological or environmental science, or equivalent experience

Partner organisation - RSPB Scotland

Job description: Project Officer

Reporting to: RSPB Scotland

Salary scale: £23,939 - £26,558

Hours: 1 FTE for 4 years

Location: Orkney

Job description summary

Species on the Edge brings together eight environmental organisations, including NatureScot, Scottish Government’s statutory adviser on nature conservation, to deliver an ambitious, consolidated programme of work across Scotland. Working together, we represent leading species conservation organisations with extensive knowledge and experience, who are joining forces to catalyse the action that species need. We aim to empower island and coastal communities to connect with one another, their local wild places and the special wildlife within.

This post will lead on the public engagement aspects of the Species on the Edge project in Orkney. This will involve implementation of the Area Delivery Plan, in collaboration with partners to ensure the project is delivered according to the timetable and budget. The PEO will lead on delivering a variety of programmes which aim to benefit vulnerable species through engaging and empowering local communities and inspiring people to participate and take positive actions to protect their natural heritage. The project seeks to include and encourage participation from a wide variety of audiences.

Key tasks and responsibilities:

• Bringing young people together to share experiences and form part of a national youth panel
• Develop and lead nature and wellbeing walks for young people, partnering with local expert naturalists
• Develop backpack loan scheme to enable more children and young people to have free access to binoculars and interpretation/education material
• Work with local communities to identify and develop engagement opportunities for a multi- sensory activities to re-connect them with the natural environment and improve wellbeing
• Work with local storytellers to create stories relating to the target species and their plight and produce a booklet of these illustrated stories
• Produce agreed project documentation and reporting
• Preparation of publicity and education materials

Essential skills:

• Good basic knowledge of wildlife, habitats and key species (sufficient to be able to lead public engagement activities in a credible way and to train and motivate volunteers)
• Ability to engage with a wide range of people face to face
• Event and project management
• Volunteer recruitment and support
• An excellent verbal communicator able to communicate conservation messages in a way that is understood by a range of audiences and that engenders their support
• Strong written skills
• Proven experience in community engagement – working with the public and delivering events
• Able to work under own initiative
• Ability to motivate themselves and others
• Competent IT user (e.g. MS packages, Outlook etc).
• Driving licence or other means of transport suitable for travel to areas not served by public transport
• Eligibility to work in the UK.

Desirable skills

• Geographical knowledge of location
• Partnership working
• Able to perform administrative tasks and deliver accurate reporting to given timescales
• Experience of development and promotion of interpretive material

Qualifications

• At least 5 GCSE's, or equivalent, including Maths and English

Partner organisation: Bumblebee Conservation Trust

Job description: Project Officer

Reporting to: Bumblebee Conservation Trust

Salary scale: £25,000

Hours: 1 FTE for 4 years

Location: Outer Hebrides

Job purpose summary

Species on the Edge brings together eight environmental organisations, including NatureScot, Scottish Government’s statutory adviser on nature conservation, to deliver an ambitious, consolidated programme of work across Scotland. Working together, we represent leading species conservation organisations with extensive knowledge and experience, who are joining forces to catalyse the action that species need. We aim to empower island and coastal communities to connect with one another, their local wild places and the special wildlife within.

The post will lead on the implementation of the Bees on the Edge, Farming Horizons, Terning the Tide, Invertebrates on the Edge, Protecting Scotland’s Island Wonders, and Jewels of the North Coast elements of the Outer Hebrides programme. It will lead on the delivery of survey work, production of management plans and landowner/farmer engagement relating to Great Yellow Bumblebee, Moss Carder Bee, Northern Colletes, Irish Ladies Tresses, Short-necked oil beetle, bats, waders and terns. The postholder will ensure outputs relating to these activities are fed into the Species on the Edge project through liaison with the Bees on the Edge Project Manager. Outputs and reporting will be required to be implemented according to the SotE timetable and within budget. The post holder will also work closely with, and provide support to, the Outer Hebrides PEO relating to delivery of people engagement activities on the Outer Hebrides.

Although the post is based with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, it is a multi-taxa role which reflects the ways of working within the wider Species on the Edge project. The post will build on the development phase work to deliver the partners’ objectives and National Lottery Heritage Fund outcomes for biodiversity and for people. Outputs and reporting will be required to be implemented according to the SotE timetable and within budget. The postholder will work in close collaboration with other SotE partners to support NatureScots Programme Manager and the wider partnership to deliver the four-year SotE programme. The successful candidate will be organised and able to deliver a clear list of outputs. They will be comfortable working in a diverse, multi-organisation team, with good communication skills and be driven to help others across the project meet our shared goals.

Key tasks and responsibilities

• Lead on the local implementation of the Bees on the Edge, Farming Horizons, Terning the Tide, Invertebrates on the Edge, Protecting Scotland’s Island Wonders, and Jewels of the North Coast species plans and contribute toward the wider objectives of Species on the Edge in the Outer Hebrides.
• Produce management plans for key sites and target species (Great Yellow Bumblebee, Moss Carder Bee, Northern Colletes, Irish Ladies Tresses, Short-necked oil beetle, bats, waders and terns) with the aim of securing long-term, positive management for species.
• Ensure good engagement and support throughout the project by working with stakeholders, in particular land managers (focusing on those identified as having primary target species on their land), volunteers and community groups.
• Coordinate the survey and monitoring of species and habitats across project sites on the Outer Hebrides.
• Train volunteers and land managers in the identification of key species in support of monitoring objectives and lead on the coordination of volunteer work parties to manage habitats.
• Engage and motivate local communities in action to conserve species and habitats including the development of local species champions.
• Connect communities with their local species and habitats working under the Species on the Edge core values of Inclusion, Co-creation, Innovation and Legacy.
• Explore future funding mechanisms such as agri-environment schemes in support of habitat management recommendations as detailed in management plans.
• Support the Outer Hebrides People Engagement Officer to deliver the Outer Hebrides engagement objectives ensuring that it fits into national engagement objectives for Species on the Edge.
• Ensure the recording of project outputs and liaise with Bees on the Edge Project Manager to report these as part of the national programme.
• Carry out your duties with regard to relevant legislation and BBCT’s policies and procedures including health and safety, GDPR and fundraising regulations

Essential skills:

• Experience of working in an ecological advice-giving capacity
• Experience of bird, plant, invertebrate survey work.
• An understanding of the crofting system and agricultural practices in the Outer Hebrides and their effects on biodiversity
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and Access
• Some knowledge of the theory and practice of project management.
• An ability to produce clear written communications and reports
• Commitment to wildlife and environmental issues
• Enthusiasm and willingness to learn, and a positive attitude
• Ability to work well as part of a cross-functional project team and with a range of stakeholders including volunteers
• Excellent interpersonal skills and an aptitude for communicating with a range of people
• An ability to persuade and influence a wide range of people, both internally and externally.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to find creative solutions and cope with flexible demands
• High degree of personal organisation and the ability to be self-motivated
• Professional approach and ability to multi-task with initiative and minimum supervision
• Attention to detail and ability to keep to agreed workplans and time budgets
• Driving licence or other means of transport suitable for travel to areas not served by public transport

Desirable skills

• Gaelic speaker and understanding of the culture and history of the area
• Organising training events, workshops or facilitated discussions and meetings
• Experience of producing written materials, newsletters and similar project related communications
• Direct experience of delivering projects for the National Lottery Heritage Fund or other funders
• Demonstrable experience of developing and working in partnerships to achieve shared outcomes
• Familiarity with Scottish coastal habitats and the unique challenges and opportunities for conservation
• Knowledge and understanding of species recording schemes
• Experience in devising training workshops of programmes for professionals and/or volunteers

Qualifications

• An environmental or ecological degree, or equivalent knowledge acquired by other means

Partner organisation: Bumblebee Conservation Trust

Job description: People Engagement Officer

Reporting to: Bumblebee Conservation Trust

Salary scale: £23,000

Hours: 1 FTE for 4 years

Location: Outer Hebrides

Job description summary

Species on the Edge brings together eight environmental organisations, including NatureScot, Scottish Government’s statutory adviser on nature conservation, to deliver an ambitious, consolidated programme of work across Scotland. Working together, we represent leading species conservation organisations with extensive knowledge and experience, who are joining forces to catalyse the action that species need. We aim to empower island and coastal communities to connect with one another, their local wild places and the special wildlife within.

The Outer Hebrides People Engagement Officer will be responsible for delivery of the Outer Hebrides Area Delivery Plan People Engagement objectives. The postholder will lead on involving more people in species conservation through a range of innovative and creative projects, training and volunteering opportunities. This postholder will lead on engaging and motivating local communities in action to conserve species including Great Yellow Bumblebee, Moss Carder Bee, Northern Colletes, Irish Ladies Tresses, Short-necked oil beetle, bats, waders and terns. The postholder will ensure outputs relating to these activities are fed into the Species on the Edge project through liaison with the Bees on the Edge Project Manager and the Outer Hebrides Project Officer. Outputs and reporting will be implemented according to the SotE timetable and within budget. The post holder will work closely with, and provide support to, the Outer Hebrides PO on the delivery of the Outer Hebrides Delivery Plan.

Although the post is based with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, it is a multi-taxa role which reflects the ways of working within the wider Species on the Edge project. The post will build on the development phase work to deliver the partners’ objectives and National Lottery Heritage Fund outcomes for biodiversity and for people. Outputs and reporting will be required to be implemented according to the SotE timetable and within budget. The postholder will work in close collaboration with other SotE partners to support NatureScot’s Programme Manager and the wider partnership to deliver the four-year SotE programme. The successful candidate will be organised and able to deliver a clear list of outputs. They will be comfortable working in a diverse, multi-organisation team, with good communication skills and be driven to help others across the project meet our shared goals

Key tasks and responsibilities

• Lead on the people engagement elements of the local implementation of the Bees on the Edge, Farming Horizons, Terning the Tide, Invertebrates on the Edge, Protecting Scotland’s Island Wonders, and Jewels of the North Coast species plans and contribute toward the wider objectives of Species on the Edge in the Outer Hebrides.
• Organize and deliver the community led annual Outer Hebrides Wildlife Festival, targeting events around the objectives of Species on the Edge in the Outer Hebrides.
• Ensure good engagement and support during the programme by working with stakeholders, volunteers and community groups.
• Train volunteers in the identification of key species in support of monitoring objectives
• Engage and motivate local communities/schools in action to conserve species and habitats including the development of local species champions.
• Connect communities with their local species and habitats working under the Species on the Edge core values of Inclusion, Co-creation, Innovation and Legacy.
• Ensure the recording of project outputs and work with Outer Hebrides Project Officer and Bees on the Edge Project Manager to report these as part of the national programme.
• Carry out your duties with regard to relevant legislation and BBCT’s policies and procedures including health and safety, GDPR and fundraising regulations

Essential skills:

• Experience in delivery of innovative engagement activities for a range of audiences.
• Experience of partnership working and an ability to engage partners from a wide range of organisations.
• Organising training events, workshops or facilitated discussions and meetings, and community events.
• Understanding of stakeholder engagement, management and retention for people-focused outcomes.
• An ability to collate and summarise information and work accurately and to deadlines.
• Excellent organisational skills, and an ability to inspire, motivate and work cooperatively with others.
• Knowledge and understanding of: Scotland’s habitats and species, particularly coastal and island ecosystems and the Outer Hebrides; land management, communications, community engagement, and managing volunteers.
• Experience in devising training workshops or programmes for professionals and/or volunteers
• Driving licence or other means of transport suitable for travel to areas not served by public transport

Desirable skills

• Gaelic speaker and understanding of the culture and history of the area
• Experience of producing written materials, newsletters and similar project related communications
• Direct experience of delivering projects for the National Lottery Heritage Fund or other funders
• Demonstrable experience of developing and working in partnerships to achieve shared outcomes
• Familiarity with Scottish coastal habitats and the unique challenges and opportunities for conservation
• Knowledge and understanding of species recording schemes
• Gaelic speaker, or a willingness to learn the language

Partner organisation - RSPB Scotland

Job description: Project Officer

Reporting to: RSPB Scotland

Salary scale: £23,939 - £26,558

Hours: 1 FTE for 4 years

Location: Shetland

Job description summary

Species on the Edge brings together eight environmental organisations, including NatureScot, Scottish Government’s statutory adviser on nature conservation, to deliver an ambitious, consolidated programme of work across Scotland. Working together, we represent leading species conservation organisations with extensive knowledge and experience, who are joining forces to catalyse the action that species need. We aim to empower island and coastal communities to connect with one another, their local wild places and the special wildlife within.

In Shetland, we have a plan to deliver a range of exciting activities over 4 years to safeguard curlew, lapwing, red-necked phalarope, twite, moss-carder bee, oysterplant, endemic hawkweed species and plantain leaf beetle.

We are looking for a passionate individual to lead on the implementation of the Shetland Delivery Plan. The role will be varied, and asks for a strong background in species and habitat conservation as well as an interest in community engagement. Working closely with the People Engagement Officer (Shetland) and other project staff in Scotland, the successful candidate will be committed to developing the Species on the Edge partnership in Shetland and will effectively communicate the shared vision of the partners. The role will be part of the RSPB Scotland team in Shetland.

Key tasks and responsibilities:

• Species monitoring: Develop and deliver a programme of species and habitat monitoring, train and coordinate volunteer surveyors and collate, analyse and report data.
• Habitat management: Through working with land managers, implement conservation actions for target species on farmland and Local Nature Conservation Sites, set up and manage a wildflower seed harvesting scheme and build support for bee-friendly roadside management.
• Species safeguard: Work with a partner organisation to establish and manage a programme to cultivate hawkweed and oysterplant seedlings and reintroduce to agreed locations.
• Land management advice: Engage, build relationships with and advise farmers and crofters, organise demonstration events and training opportunities to build knowledge and promote practices that benefit target species.
• Volunteer programme: Support SotE People Engagement Officer (Shetland) to develop a team of volunteers to achieve project objectives and targets.
• Project management: Provide written progress reports, maintain accurate records, and complete evaluation as required, and ensure commitments to funders are fulfilled.

Essential skills, knowledge and experience

• Experience in delivering biological surveys, habitat management and provision of advice to land managers.
• Experience in data management (data recording, analysis and presentation of findings).
• Demonstrable experience of developing and working in partnerships to achieve shared outcomes.
• An ability to persuade and influence a wide range of people, both internally and externally.
• Organising training events, workshops or facilitated discussions and meetings.
• Excellent written, spoken communication and presentation skills for a wide variety of audiences.
• Ability to work well as part of a cross-functional project team.
• Competent IT user – Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams etc.) and experience with GIS.
• Educated to degree or HND level in a biological or environmental science, or equivalent experience.
• Ability to drive/access remote locations.

Desirable skills, knowledge and experience

• Good ecological knowledge of SotE target species and their requirements.
• Experience of managing volunteers.
• Experience of working with contractors.
• Experience of producing written materials, newsletters and similar project related communications.
• Geographical knowledge of Shetland.

Partner organisation - RSPB Scotland

Job description: People Engagement Officer

Reporting to: RSPB Scotland

Salary scale: £23,939 - £26,558

Hours: 1 FTE for 4 years

Location: Shetland

Job description summary

Species on the Edge brings together eight environmental organisations, including NatureScot, Scottish Government’s statutory adviser on nature conservation, to deliver an ambitious, consolidated programme of work across Scotland. Working together, we represent leading species conservation organisations with extensive knowledge and experience, who are joining forces to catalyse the action that species need. We aim to empower island and coastal communities to connect with one another, their local wild places and the special wildlife within.

In Shetland, we have a plan to deliver a range of exciting activities over 4 years to safeguard curlew, lapwing, red-necked phalarope, twite, moss-carder bee, oysterplant, endemic hawkweed species and plantain leaf beetle.

We are looking for an enthusiastic person to lead on the delivery of Species on the Edge’s people engagement activities in Shetland. The role will generate community interest and support for target species and nature conservation. It will create and cultivate relationships with a range of audiences, encourage participation in project activities, and catalyse action for species through the project’s themes of connecting communities, providing opportunities for young people and improving health and well-being.

Working closely with the Project Officer (Shetland) and other project staff in Scotland, the successful candidate will be committed to developing the Species on the Edge partnership in Shetland and will effectively communicate the shared vision of the partners. The role will be part of the RSPB Scotland team in Shetland.

Key tasks and responsibilities:

• Contribute to the delivery of Species on the Edge engagement activities in Scotland, including bringing young people together to form a national youth panel, facilitating community participation in shaping conservation action and working with local communities to develop opportunities for multi-sensory activities to connect with the natural environment and improve wellbeing.
• Set up and support a Ground Squad for young people in Shetland to put into practice conservation ideas.
• Lead an intergenerational storytelling project and produce a story book.
• Engage with artists to deliver a series of public workshops to encourage action for species through art.
• Lead on the development of a team of volunteers to achieve project objectives and targets and ensure that all volunteers receive an excellent volunteering experience.
• Liaise with core project teams to publicise communications and promote project-wide opportunities locally as required.
• Facilitate the development of a strong local conservation partnership.
• Provide written progress reports, maintain accurate records and complete evaluation as required, and ensure commitments to funders are fulfilled.
• Ensure that all activities and actions meet Health and Safety requirements so that the RSPB meets it’s legal and policy obligations.

Essential skills, knowledge and experience

• Experience in community engagement - working with the public and delivering events to the public.
• Good basic knowledge of Shetland’s natural environment and SotE target species (sufficient to be able to lead public engagement activities in a credible way and to train and motivate volunteers).
• Ability to engage with a wide range of people face-to-face.
• Interpersonal skills.
• Experience of recruiting and managing volunteers.
• Experience of working with young people.
• Ability to communicate project messages in a way that is understood by a range of audiences and that engenders their support.
• Ability to work well as part of a cross-functional project team.
• Competent IT user – Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams etc.).
• Ability to drive/access remote locations.

Desirable skills, knowledge and experience

• Geographical knowledge of Shetland
• Able to perform administrative tasks and to deliver accurate reporting to given timescales.
• Experience of development and promotion of interpretive material.
• Demonstrable experience of developing and working in partnerships to achieve shared outcomes.

Requirements

• Disclosure Scotland

Partner organisation - Amphibian and Reptile Conservation

Job description: Project Officer

Reporting to: Amphibian and Reptile Conservation

Salary scale: £22,000 - £24,000

Hours: Full time (1 FTE) for 4 years

Location: Eastern Solway or within easy reach; home-based

Job description summary

Do you want to be part of an ambitious, Scotland-wide conservation project? Are you a motivated, enthusiastic, and outgoing individual who wants to make a difference to some of the most threatened species in Scotland through strong partnerships and community engagement? Then this role is for you! Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (ARC) is recruiting a project officer to lead on species recovery work on the Solway as part of Species on the Edge (SotE).

Species on the Edge brings together eight environmental organisations, including NatureScot, Scottish Government’s statutory adviser on nature conservation, to deliver an ambitious, consolidated programme of work across Scotland. Working together, we represent leading species conservation organisations with extensive knowledge and experience, who are joining forces to catalyse the action that species need. We aim to empower island and coastal communities to connect with one another, their local wild places and the special wildlife within.

ARC is seeking a Project Officer to join this exciting programme. As part of Species on the Edge, you will be involved in an innovative initiative aimed at saving some of Scotland’s rarest coastal species. You will need to be an enthusiastic advocate for species, able to help volunteers and communities make a real difference. You will have the backing of a consortium of wildlife organisations with a fantastic background in species conservation.

This post will lead on the delivery of the Coastal Treasures of the Eastern Solway project as part of the SotE programme, and will oversee the activity across the Solway Delivery Plan in close liaison with a Project Officer in West Solway (line managed by RSPB Scotland). The post will lead on surveys for target species, land manager advice, volunteers and people engagement activities. The target species include natterjack toad, Northern Brown Argus, tadpole shrimp, farmland waders and bats. Outputs and reporting will be required to be implemented according to the SotE timetable and within budget. The post-holder will work collaboratively and be supported by the West Solway Project Officer in relation to farmland waders.

Key tasks and responsibilities:

• Lead on the local implementation of project plans including Coastal Treasures of the Eastern Solway, and contribute toward the wider objectives of SotE in the Solway.
• Produce management plans for key sites and target species, with the aim of securing long- term, positive management for species, in liaison with SotE project partners to ensure specialist input where appropriate.
• Ensure good engagement and support during the delivery stage by working with stakeholders, in particular landowners (focusing on those identified as having primary target species on their land), volunteers and community groups.
• Coordinate the survey and monitoring of species and habitats across project sites, in particular leading surveys for the natterjack toad.
• Train volunteers and landowners in the identification of key species in support of monitoring objectives and lead on the coordination of volunteer work parties to manage habitats.
• Engage and motivate local communities in action to conserve species and habitats including the development of local species champions.
• Connect communities with their local species and habitats working under the SotE core values of Inclusion, Co-creation, Innovation and Legacy.
• Explore future funding mechanisms such as agri-environment schemes in support of habitat management recommendations as detailed in management plans.
• Support the implementation of the Solway communication and engagement plan ensuring that it fits into national engagement objectives forSotE.
• Lead on the documentation of project outputs and liaise with the West Solway Project Officer in the reporting of these as part of the national programme.
• Carry out duties in line with ARC’s policies and procedures.

Essential skills:

• Knowledge of species identification and monitoring and experience in a variety recording methodologies.
• Experience in the delivery of practical habitat management.
• Some knowledge of the theory and practice of project management.
• Experience of working in partnership with other organisations, including community groups, landowners, stakeholders and contractors.
• Experience of managing, coordinating and enthusing volunteers in species survey and monitoring and practical habitat management.
• Experience in engaging local communities in species-focused projects.
• Experience of working with project teams and reporting to project funders.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including report-writing.
• Competent IT skills including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and Teams (or equivalent).
• Excellent problem solving skills and ability to find creative solutions.
• An ability to persuade and influence a wide range of people, both internally and externally.
• An ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances.
• An ability to work well as part of a cross-functional project team.
• Proven time management and organisational skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Driving licence or other means of transport suitable for travel to areas not served by public transport
• Eligibility to work in the UK.

Desirable skills

• Understanding of the legislation behind protected species and protected sites.
• Experience of managing or advising on management for species targeted in SotE, such as natterjack toad, tadpole shrimp, Northern Brown Argus, and waders.
• Knowledge or experience of land management schemes, especially Agri-Environment Climate Scheme.
• Experience of producing management plans for nature conservation.
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) experience (eg QGIS or ArcPro).
• Ability to manage budgets.
• People engagement skills.
• Track record of partnership projects in nature conservation.

Qualifications

• At least a first degree in biology or a related subject.

Partner organisation - RSPB Scotland

Job description: Project Officer

Reporting to: RSPB Scotland

Salary scale: £23,939 - £26,558 pro-rata

Hours: 0.6 FTE for 4 years

Location: Solway

Job description summary

Do you want to be part of an ambitious, Scotland-wide conservation project? Are you a motivated, enthusiastic, and outgoing individual who wants to make a difference to some of the most threatened species in Scotland? Then this role is for you! RSPB Scotland are recruiting a project officer to lead on species recovery work on the Solway as part of Species on the Edge,

Species on the Edge brings together eight environmental organisations, including NatureScot, Scottish Government’s statutory adviser on nature conservation, to deliver an ambitious, consolidated programme of work across Scotland. Working together, we represent leading species conservation organisations with extensive knowledge and experience, who are joining forces to catalyse the action that species need. We aim to empower island and coastal communities to connect with one another, their local wild places and the special wildlife within.

As a Project Officer based on The Solway, you will be working with landowners, volunteers, partners and members of the community to conserve a suite of species including Greenland White-Fronted Goose, Chough, Sandwich Tern and Northern Brown Argus as part of Farming Horizons, Terning the Tide and Rocking the blues elements of the Solway programme (west). This will include setting up monitoring programs, carrying out survey work and working closely with stakeholders to secure the long-term future of these vulnerable species; there is plenty of scope for you to make your own mark on this project.

Key tasks and responsibilities:

• Lead on the local implementation of the Farming Horizons, Terning the Tide and Rocking the Blues project plans and contribute toward the wider objectives of Species on the Edge in the Solway.
• Produce management plans for key sites and target species (Greenland white-fronted geese, chough, Northern Brown Argus) with the aim of securing long-term, positive management for species.
• Ensure good engagement and support during the delivery stage by working with stakeholders, in particular landowners (focusing on those identified as having primary target species on their land), volunteers and community groups.
• Coordinate the survey and monitoring of species and habitats across project sites.
• Train volunteers and landowners in the identification of key species in support of monitoring objectives and lead on the coordination of volunteer work parties to manage habitats.
• Engaging and motivating local communities in action to conserve species and habitats including the development of local species champions.
• Connect communities with their local species and habitats working under the Species on the Edge core values of Inclusion, Co-creation, Innovation and Legacy.
• Explore future funding mechanisms such as agri-environment schemes in support of habitat management recommendations as detailed in management plans.
• Support the implementation of the Solway’s communication and engagement plan ensuring that it fits into national engagement objectives for Species on the Edge.
• Ensure the recording of project outputs and liaise with Solway lead partner (ARC) in the reporting of these as part of the national programme.
• Carry out your duties with regard to RSPB Scotland’s policies and procedures including health and safety regulations.

Essential skills:

• Knowledge of ecological identification and monitoring and experience in a variety recording methodologies.
• Experience in the delivery of practical habitat management.
• Some knowledge of the theory and practice of project management.
• Experience of working in partnership with other organisations, including community groups, landowners, stakeholders and contractors.
• Experience of managing, coordinating and enthusing volunteers in species survey and monitoring and practical habitat management.
• Experience in engaging local communities in species-focused projects.
• Experience of working with project teams and reporting to project funders.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including report-writing.
• Competent IT user (e.g. MS packages, Outlook etc).
• Excellent problem solving skills and ability to find creative solutions.
• An ability to persuade and influence a wide range of people, both internally and externally.
• An ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances.
• An ability to work well as part of a cross-functional project team.
• Proven time management and organisational skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Driving licence or other means of transport suitable for travel to areas not served by public transport
• Eligibility to work in the UK.

Desirable skills

• Understanding of the legislation behind protected species and protected sites.
• Experience of managing or advising on management for the relevant species, including Greenland white-fronted goose, chough, butterflies, terns and farmland waders.
• Knowledge or experience of land management schemes, especially Agri-Environment Climate Scheme.
• Experience of producing management plans for nature conservation.
• GIS experience.
• Ability to manage budgets.
• Track record of partnership projects in nature conservation.

Qualifications

• At least 5 GCSE's, or equivalent, including Maths and English