Wildlife Protection Officer

Scotland's leading nature conservation charity is looking for enthusiastic individuals to undertake the role of Wildlife Protection Officer (WPO) based at Loch of the Lowes. This paid role includes free accommodation, invaluable training and the opportunity to develop experience in species protection, working with volunteers and public engagement. Based at Loch of the Lowes Wildlife Reserve, this 8-week role will focus on providing osprey and other wildlife species protection during the sensitive period of the breeding season. The role will require working closely with the Perthshire Ranger, the Volunteer Nest Protection Team and Visitor Centre staff. Successful candidates will receive on-site accommodation, in a Lochside, wooden eco-bothy for the duration of the role. Duties include:

• Monitoring and recording breeding ospreys' behaviour
• Providing protection for the resident ospreys, and other species, their nest, eggs, and chicks during the critical part of the breeding season
• Engaging with members of the public, both in the hides and on regular patrols around the reserve
• Intervening and taking appropriate action in incidents of disturbance
• Monitoring additional webcams for beaver activity and other wildlife footage
• Working closely with Visitor Centre staff and volunteers
• Producing an end of season summary report
Training and Support: The candidate will have the fantastic opportunity to gain experience in;
• Species ID
• Use of webcam and security camera software
• Working with volunteers
• Public engagement
Please note the Wildlife Protection Officer role is dependent on the return of breeding ospreys. Covid-19 precautions will be applied as appropriate, particularly with regards to the bothy accommodation.

For nearly 60 years, the Scottish Wildlife Trust has worked with its members, partners and supporters in pursuit of its vision of healthy, resilient ecosystems across Scotland's land and seas. The Trust successfully champions the cause of wildlife through policy and campaigning work, demonstrates best practice through practical conservation and innovative partnerships, and inspires people to take positive action through its education and engagement activities. The Trust manages a network of around 120 wildlife reserves across Scotland and is a member of the UK-wide Wildlife Trusts movement.