RSPB Residential Volunteer (Old Hall Marshes, Essex)
RSPB
Why we want you
We are looking for individuals to join our Residential Volunteer programme starting in September 2025. We have a 6 month position at Old Hall Marshes. Accommodation including household bills will be provided free of charge. Previous holders of the post have secured paid employment with the RSPB and other organisation after completion of the role. Please see testimonials in the Download section by clicking the find out more and apply button below.
What’s in it for you?
The reserve work programme will provide a wide range of opportunities for you to develop your knowledge and skills in conservation. You will gain experience of working on a range of habitats that may include ancient grazing marsh, reedbed, woodland, heathland, saline lagoon and estuarine habitats. The work is very varied and will allow you to gain a wealth of experience necessary for pursuing a career in nature conservation. The placement may include the following:
- Practical management of wet grassland to benefit a range of species
- Practical management of reedbed habitats and learning how to improve reedbeds for key species
- Managing scrub and hedgerows
- Conducting bird surveys such as WeBS and Harrier roost counts and salinity and water level monitoring
- Training in and use of GIS software to produce maps and input biological data
- Attending formal accredited training as required by the role such as quad bike, off road driving and brushcutter
- Use and maintenance of a range of machinery
- Learning about key reserve management topics such as cross compliance, agri-environment schemes, hydrology and management planning
- Monitoring predators of wet grassland birds by conducting surveys, checking trail cameras and mink rafts
- Gaining experience of working with livestock by checking Konik ponies.
- Working as part of team to complete practical estate work such as fencing with a view to leading work parties
Career development
We will support your career development by creating a Personal Development Plan and by helping you with application writing and career coaching through regular one to one meetings. These will be conducted by RSPB staff with knowledge of what you need to do to get a career in conservation.
RSPB Residential Volunteering Scheme
There is no charge to take part in the scheme. It is your responsibility to cover the cost of your transport to and from the reserve, and to provide and cover the cost of your food during your stay. The RSPB will provide accommodation, together with basic services, free of charge for the period you are volunteering, and cover any expenses incurred as a necessary part of your work on the reserve.
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided free of charge and is within walking distance of the reserve. It is fully furnished with all amenities that you would expect in a normal property. This includes broadband which is provided free of charge. The cottage is situated on a quiet country lane and has a front and back garden, and available parking. The large bedroom looks over fields and the Blackwater estuary. It is quite isolated so your own car would be useful but not essential. Bicycles are also available to use.
The skills you need
This is a voluntary position. We are seeking individuals who have the energy, enthusiasm and desire to succeed in a career in conservation. No previous experience is necessary, but a degree in a conservation or related area is desirable and a knowledge of wildlife is useful. You must be prepared to undertake physical work outside in all weathers. You must be over 18. You must be entitled to live and work in the UK. You must have a full clean driving licence. Applications from people who do not have a driving licence will not be accepted.
Your time
Minimum commitment: 6 months Duration: 6 months
Period: From Mid-September 2025 to March 2026
About RSPB
The RSPB is a charity for the conservation of birds and nature. We bring people together who love birds and other wildlife, and who want to take action to restore the health and diversity of the natural world. We carry out conservation on a large scale, protect and restore habitats, and save species from extinction. We’re living in a nature and climate emergency, and we won’t stop whilst the threats persist.
We believe our work makes a real difference to the world we live in. It takes a great team to
save nature and we need a wide range of skills to make it happen.
As an RSPB employee, you will be helping to save nature every time you come to work. There’s never been a more important time to protect our wildlife and wild places, so we want to make sure you feel rewarded for everything you help us to achieve.
The RSPB is a charity for the conservation of birds and nature. We bring people together who love birds and other wildlife, and who want to take action to restore the health and diversity of the natural world. We carry out conservation on a large scale, protect and restore habitats, and save species from extinction. We’re living in a nature and climate emergency, and we won’t stop whilst the threats persist. We believe our work makes a real difference to the world we live in. It takes a great team to save nature and we need a wide range of skills to make it happen. As an RSPB employee, you will be helping to save nature every time you come to work. There’s never been a more important time to protect our wildlife and wild places, so we want to make sure you feel rewarded for everything you help us to achieve.
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