Ornithological field position

We are seeking to recruit a research technician as part of a collaborative project (University of York and Natural England), based at the Humberhead Peatlands NNR near Doncaster.

The project is part of a wider EU LIFE+ funded project called ‘That’s LIFE’, focusing on the restoration of lowland blanket bog through scrub removal and re-wetting. The Humberhead Peatlands is an SPA for its breeding population of European nightjars and an SAC for its lowland bog habitat.

The nightjar project fieldwork aims to collect data on any behavioural and population changes that occur as a result of this restoration work. The work involves ringing, tagging and tracking European nightjars, as well as nest finding to investigate breeding productivity and exploring their food resources through moth trapping on the NNR from June to August 2017.

We are able to offer shared accommodation close to the field sites. Fieldwork involves long hours in the field, primarily during the evening and overnight, with some afternoon work to find nests. In addition, staff will assist with maintenance of kit and recording of data. The work will be conducted in small teams of employees, students and volunteers.

We are seeking an avian field technician (grade 3 (~£18,263) to grade 4 (~ £20,989) pro rata dependent on experience). One person required for 8 -10 weeks, on a full-time basis.

The ideal candidate would have:

·         A or C-permit ringing licence

·         Experience of ornithological fieldwork, particularly ringing and breeding surveys

·         Experience of, and enthusiasm for, working outdoors

·         Full, clean driving licence

·         Good physical fitness

Desirable criteria:

·         Experience of fitting or using radio/GPS tags

·         Own transport

If you are interested in the role please contact Dr Kathryn Arnold Kathryn.Arnold@york.ac.uk, with your CV, references and a short covering letter, detailing previous experience.

For informal enquiries, please contact Lucy Mitchell (PhD Student) ljr540@york.ac.uk.

Deadline 4th May 2018

Please note that the positions will be offered subject to satisfactory references, check of eligibility to work in the U.K. (verified copy of passport) and proof of qualifications if necessary.

Whilst we will attempt to reply to all candidates, the volume of applications we receive may mean that this is not possible. If you have not heard from us within three weeks of the closing date, you should assume that your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.