About the Orkney Native Wildlife Project

The Orkney Native Wildlife Project aims to safeguard the unique and internationally important native wildlife of Orkney and the benefits it provides for local people and the economy by addressing the threat it faces from an invasive non-native predator: the stoat. Stoats threaten the Orkney vole, and many birds including hen harriers, short-eared owls, red-throated divers, waders and seabirds. It is therefore essential to remove stoats from Orkney to prevent significant and long-term negative impacts on Orkney’s native wildlife.

About the Role

As Assistant Biosecurity Officer you will work to reduce the risk of stoats spreading beyond their current range in Orkney. Your key role will be in stoat incursion response on the isles, leading any investigation and appropriate action where a stoat incursion is suspected. You will work closely and be supported by the Biosecurity Officer and Stoat Detection Dog Handlers. 

• Investigating reports of stoat incursion on islands
• Establishing an appropriate incursion response (including trapping, monitoring and liaising with Stoat Detection Dog Handlers)
• Regular checking and maintenance of ongoing island incursion responses
• Establishing and curating a central equipment hub for stoat incursion response
• Reviewing and reporting on incursion responses
• Establishing and maintaining good relationships with island stakeholders and landowners
• Assisting the Biosecurity Officer and island communities in the delivery of island biosecurity plans
• Working with the Communications Officer to promote our work in local communities

• Professional experience in nature conservation and fieldwork
• Strong navigational skills including GPS use and ability to read OS maps
• Able to walk long distances over difficult terrain. Willing to undertake surveys independently on remote islands, including overnight stays
• Knowledge of protected species and habitats, and ensuring own health and safety, sometimes in challenging field conditions
• Ability to use own initiative to solve day-to-day problems in the field
• Willing to work flexible hours, be self-motivated and work efficiently within a defined work plan.
• Able to work positively and efficiently within a team
• Experience in accurate field data collection and management.
• Skilled use of Microsoft Office and experience of using GIS software
• Ability to develop and maintain good relations with landowners, local communities and members of the public
• Report writing experience to a high standard
• Experience and knowledge of island biosecurity
• Full UK driving licence to be able to use fleet vehicle

Desirable 

• Experience in using trail cameras and traps (DOC200 and Good Nature A24).