NatureScot
Fixed term appointment until 30 September 2026
Full time, 35 hours per week
Salary £33,312
NatureScot is recruiting a Nature Reserve Officer to support the day to day management of the Isle of Noss National Nature Reserve, working alongside a fellow Seasonal Reserve Officer.
This role suits someone with strong field skills, confidence working with the public, and the resilience to live and work in a remote island environment for the season.
The role
You will be jointly responsible for the daily management of the Isle of Noss NNR and delivery of the Reserve Plan.
This includes leading the annual seabird monitoring programme, welcoming and supporting visitors, and ensuring the smooth running of the island’s facilities.
You will meet all visitors arriving on the island, provide introductory talks, and remain available during their visit to support safety, interpretation and emergency cover.
You will operate the inflatable ferry, ensuring safe transport of visitors and staff in variable conditions.
You will lead monthly guided walks and support educational groups and specialist visits where required.
You will carry out seabird census and productivity monitoring in line with the Isle of Noss monitoring handbook.
You will complete monthly and annual monitoring reports and contribute to wider reserve data collection.
You will manage the day to day upkeep of residential buildings, paths, signage, visitor facilities, boats and equipment.
You will handle ferry fares and cash and deliver these weekly to the office.
Working pattern
The role is based on the Isle of Noss National Nature Reserve.
Basic accommodation is provided on the island and you will be expected to live there for the duration of the contract.
The role involves outdoor work, boat operations, physical activity and working in exposed conditions.
Some flexibility is required to support visitor demand and operational needs.
What we are looking for
Experience of boat handling, particularly inflatable powerboats.
Experience of seabird monitoring, including census and productivity work.
Strong interpersonal skills and confidence dealing with the public in a visitor facing role.
Physical fitness and confidence assisting passengers safely to and from boats.
Ability to work effectively in a small team and live in an isolated environment.
Good IT skills including email, Word, Excel and electronic record systems.
Practical ability with tools, equipment and basic infrastructure maintenance.
Strong written communication skills, including report writing.
Boat handling and first aid qualifications towards RYA Commercial Endorsement are desirable but not essential.
Knowledge of British natural history and species identification is desirable.
Gaelic is desirable but not essential.
What is on offer
Salary of £33,312 for a full time fixed term role.
Civil Service Pension Scheme with an employer contribution of 28.97 percent.
41.5 days annual leave including fixed public holidays.
Flexi time and flexible working culture where operationally possible.
Two days paid volunteering leave.
Learning and development tailored to the role.
Employee assistance and wellbeing support.
Accommodation provided on the island during the season.
How to apply
Apply through the employer’s recruitment portal
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