The role

Curlew and other breeding wader species in the UK have seen major population declines due to large-scale landscape changes throughout the 20^th century which has resulted in habitat loss and increased generalist predator numbers. Northern Ireland Curlew specifically has declined by 82% since the 80’s, with only an estimated 250 pairs left we are in a race against time to stabilise and reverse this population decline.

As part of a UK-wide project funded through the EU LIFE programme to halt the decline of Curlew, RSPB NI aims to deliver landscape-scale conservation at our two key research sites; Glenwherry and Lough Erne. This will include habitat management, predator control and research and monitoring.

Your role will be to collect data on the breeding ecology of Curlew. This will include mapping the distribution, abundance and behaviour of breeding curlews and other moorland bird species, vegetation recording and habitat assessments, assessing the abundance and distribution of key nest/chick predators (e.g. via fox scat surveys) and data entry.

These posts are physically demanding, requiring predawn starts, long days of walking over rough terrain, sometimes in inclement weather. You will be required to work unsociable hours, including the occasional weekends, depending on the weather.

This is an exciting opportunity to work alongside a passionate team in some of the most spectacular places in Northern Ireland. 

Key activities will include

• Conducting modified Brown and Shepherd breeding wader surveys.
• Conducting vegetation surveys, habitat mapping, and assessments.
• Conducting predator scat surveys.
• Data entry and upkeep.
• Developing and upkeeping relationships with stake-holders and land-owners.

What we need from you?

• Relevant degree or equivalent work experience.
• You will have a working knowledge of the wildlife and habitats (upland grassland, moorland and wet grassland? of the area and experience in wader monitoring and surveys.
• Ability to identify a wide range of breeding birds by sight and sound, specifically waders and farmland birds.
• Ability to undertake demanding fieldwork in remote areas for long hours and in poor weather.
• Ability to navigate using a map, compass, and GPS.
• Capable of keeping accurate and legible records of data collected in the field.
• Practical experience of quantitative habitat surveys.
• Do you have RYA level two powerboat handling and/or boating experience?