Seasonal Fundraiser - Rathlin Island (Reserve-based)

Are you looking for the ideal summer job? Would you like to work at the home to Northern Ireland’s largest seabird colony? We are looking for a seasonal fundraiser to work at the stunning RSPB Rathlin Seabird Centre for the 2026 season, and it could be you!

What’s the role about?

Located 6 miles away from Ballycastle, Rathlin Island is the only inhabited offshore island in Northern Ireland. Comprised of rugged cliffs, unimproved grassland and several lakes, Rathlin island is an idyllic workplace.

The team at RSPB Rathlin Seabird Centre have been delivering exemplary visitor experience for over 16 years, making the reserve a serious opportunity for fundraising and membership recruitment.

As a core part of both the Rathlin team and the Face to Face membership teams, you be working alongside staff and volunteers to welcome visitors to the reserve and enthuse them about the conservation importance of the site. You will be expected to role model best practices for reserve fundraising to inspire new memberships for the RSPB.

Given that this position is based on Rathlin island, the ideal candidate will live within 20 miles of Ballycastle harbour. You don’t have to have fundraising experience - full training will be provided.

Expert knowledge of Northern Irish wildlife is not a pre-requisite, but a passion for conservation, an ability to employ effective communication skills and an eagerness to learn are essential.

About the role

You will work alongside our friendly staff and volunteers to welcome visitors, share the importance of this extraordinary site, and inspire them to support the RSPB’s vital conservation efforts.

The role is target-driven and requires confidence, resilience, and enthusiasm - but for those who thrive on purpose and people, it’s truly rewarding.

Check out our fundraisers in action here!

For further insights into our fundraising roles, application process, FAQs, and upcoming start dates, please see the recruitment pack.

This position may be well suited to students or individuals seeking a recurring seasonal role each year.

What we offer:

• Full training provided - no wildlife knowledge necessary.
• Salary-based role (not commission-based) ensuring stable income.
• Flexibility to work 3, 4 or 5 days per week to suit your schedule.
• Inclusive and supportive working environment.
• Potential opportunity to return each summer.
• A chance to make a real difference for nature.

What we need from you:

• Passion for people and conservation - we’ll teach you the rest!
• Resilience and positivity when facing challenges.
• Confidence speaking with members of the public and working toward clear targets.
• Comfortable working outdoors and often independently.
• Availability to work 3 out of 4 weekends per month.
• Fundraising, sales or customer service experience (desirable, not essential).

Additional information:

Fixed-term, Until Early September 2026

The successful candidate may attend an in person induction and training at our HQ in Sandy, Bedfordshire (travel and accommodation expenses covered).

We may close early if sufficient applications are received.

Start Date: February/March 2026 - For a full list of our start dates please see the Recruitment Pack.

How to apply:

Please upload your CV and complete a short online application form. Use the cover letter section to tell us why you’re best suited for this role.

Inclusion and diversity

We’re committed to developing an inclusive and diverse RSPB where everyone feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. People of colour and disabled people are currently underrepresented across the environment, climate, and conservation sector - we particularly welcome applications from these groups.

For all role/application enquiries please contact - [email protected]

This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship. Applicants must have a pre-existing right to work in the UK.