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Working in some of the most stunning scenery in the UK, surrounded by special landscapes and sensational wildlife, we are looking for a Site Manager to help lead our varied and exciting work programme here in Shetland. 

RSPB in Shetland operate across a vast area, managing 15 sites, all with their unique species, habitats and management requirements. From managing mire habitats for breeding red-necked phalaropes in the far north of Shetland, to managing for breeding waders such as curlews in basin fen habitat and vast seabird colonies at the southern tip of these stunning islands. We have ambitious plans to reverse declines in certain species with habitat restoration and management, as well as maintain and grow populations of some of the UK’s rarest avian species.

What's the role about? 

We are seeking a Site Manager to join our management team in Shetland.

The Site Manager will have a core focus on our 3 main Peatland sites in Yell, responsible for accessing funding through appropriate routes, such as Peatland Action, in order to deliver Peatland restoration- the most effective management output for our upland habitats. The role will support across the other 12 sites in Shetland, but will have ultimate responsibility for the delivery and future production of our Yell management plan- an area that covers almost 3,000 HA.  

A relatively small reserves team cover a wide geographical area within Shetland (Senior Site Manager, Warden and Assistant Warden), encompassing a broad and varied program of management throughout the year.

You will be:

1. Responsible for the production/delivery of reserve management plan.
2. Responsible for developing, organising and controlling on-site activities to maximise conservation outcomes.
3. Take responsibility for the safe and compliant management of all site operations, overseeing systems such that risks are adequately controlled.
4. Compiling and supporting the management of the site budgets to ensure financial compliance and delivery of RSPB objectives.
5. Work actively with colleagues (e.g. Fundraising and Communications) to secure external grant/funding income and ensure compliance with external funder requirements and applications to deliver RSPB’s objectives for site and corporate objectives.

Essential skills, knowledge and experience: 

• Understanding of the ecological & survey requirements of key species and habitats.
• A demonstratable track record of managing land and people including contractors. 
• Knowledge of project and budget management, including applications.
• Experience of putting HSE/cross-compliance/risk management knowledge into practice.
• A full, manual driving licence that is valid in the UK is required due to the remote nature of the sites.

Desirable skills, knowledge and experience:

• Educated to a degree level or equivalent experience in a relevant discipline.  
• Experience of land management.
• Experience of managing grazing regimes for conservation.

This is a Permanent, Full-Time role for 37.5 hours per week. 

We are looking to conduct interviews for this position from the 3rd of November 2025. For further information please contact kevin.kelly@rspb.org.uk.

As part of this application process you will be asked to provide a copy of your CV and complete an application form including evidence on how you meet the skills, knowledge, and experience listed above.

This role will require completion of a DBS/PVG/Access NI in addition to the standard pre-employment checks.

We are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse RSPB, in which everyone feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. To achieve our vision of creating a world richer in nature, we need more people, and more diverse people, on nature’s side. People of colour and disabled people are currently underrepresented across the environment, climate, sustainability, and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we are particularly interested in receiving your application. Contact us to discuss any additional support you may need to complete your application.

The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

The RSPB is a licenced sponsor. This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship - the successful applicant will need to have a pre-existing Right to Work in the UK in order to be offered an employment contract.

Before applying for this role, we recommend reading through the candidate guidance notes attached to the top of this advert.