Estate Worker

We are looking to recruit a keen and passionate Estate Worker to join the Otmoor team, managing one of the most important inland reserves and the premier wildlife site in Oxfordshire.

The reserve is a complex mix of habitats and is a perfect training ground for that entry into conservation. You will be tested as an Estate Worker, but the benefits are endless as the work is incredibly varied and rewarding, whether that is conducting dawn breeding birds surveys, driving the tractor and a variety of implements or leading on the upkeep of the visitor infrastructure. You will join a passionate and dedicated team, working at the forefront of conservation.

What's the role about?

The role is key in managing habitats for the important wildlife that calls Otmoor its home. You will carry out a range of tasks including vegetation and hydrological management, path work, hide and fence maintenance and electric fencing. You will be responsible for using a range of equipment, as well as leading on the servicing of reserve machinery and vehicles.

The role is key in maintaining visitor facilities and reserve infrastructure, with good record keeping and attention to detail you will be closely involved in ensuring key areas are well kept and meet all H&S requirements.

Interest in wildlife, particularly birds, is key as the successful applicant will be completing a range of wildlife survey and monitoring across the reserve both as part of knowledgeable groups but also as a lone surveyor.

Essential skills, knowledge and experience:

• Servicing and maintaining vehicles, machinery, tools and equipment to agreed standards.
• Machinery and equipment operations.
• Practical land management experience and delivering estate management works.
• Full driving licence valid for use in the UK.

Desirable skills, knowledge and experience:

• Biological recording electronic data input.
• Livestock management.
• Knowledge/understanding of nature conservation.
• Lantra or equivalent qualification in tractors, toppers, trailers, chainsaws, brushcutters, ATV, boom sprayer, knapsack sprayers, boats and vehicles.

This is a Permanent, Full-Time role for 37.5 hours per week.

We are looking to conduct interviews for this position from14th November 2025. For further information, contact Fergus Mosey, Otmoor Warden: [email protected] or 07880 309646.

As part of this application process you will be asked to complete an application form including evidence on how you meet the skills, knowledge, and experience listed above.

We are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse RSPB, in which everyone feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. To achieve our vision of creating a world richer in nature, we need more people, and more diverse people, on nature’s side. People of colour and disabled people are currently underrepresented across the environment, climate, sustainability, and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we are particularly interested in receiving your application.

The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship - the successful applicant will need to have a pre-existing Right to Work in the UK in order to be offered an employment contract.