Jobs

JOB PURPOSE

The Seabird Ranger will undertake a programme of monitoring key seabird species in order to ascertain breeding success and obtain an accurate estimate of population size. Through monitoring, a greater understanding of the status of the colonies and the threats and issues affecting them will be achieved. This information will help in the protection of the seabirds and increase our understanding of their populations and environment. Submitted results will be collated into national datasets to inform a wider understanding of species numbers and health. The seabird monitoring programme will be guided by the NTS Senior Seabird Officer.
It is anticipated that the Seabird Ranger will work closely with one or more volunteers and be responsible for their day-to-day management whilst on Mingulay.
The Seabird Ranger will be the face of the National Trust for Scotland on Mingulay during the busy summer months and will play a key role in welcoming visitors to help ensure their time on Mingulay is highly enjoyable and memorable, while helping to protect and enhance the island’s natural and cultural heritage.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES

Nature conservation
 To monitor key seabird colonies including population, breeding success and feeding studies
 To collate cetacean and other marine sightings
 To collect, manage and collate biological information in a consistent manner compatible with Trust and national datasets
 To produce and disseminate results of monitoring, including monthly and end of season reports
 To contribute to other biological monitoring programmes as appropriate
 To carry out biosecurity checks following set protocols
 To support NTS’s response to avian influenza

Visitor Services
• Welcoming and engaging visitors, enhancing their experience by providing information about Mingulay, its natural and cultural heritage, including strong messages around safety and respect for wildlife, habitats and cultural heritage.
• Encourage people to further contribute to caring for Mingulay through donating or taking up membership of NTS.
• To assist with visitor management and interpretation, including participating in the guided walk programme and contributing articles for the website and newsletters
• Assist with practical countryside management including litter picks, beach cleans, maintenance and safety checks.

Community engagement
• Build strong working relationships with Day Boat Operators, their crew members, and other local stakeholders to support consistent messaging to visitors.

Marketing & Communications
• Enthusiastically promote awareness and understanding of the role that NTS plays in protecting and caring for Mingulay and wider work across Scotland.
• Regularly update and contribute positive stories to NTS social media and other communication outlets relevant to Mingulay

Application Deadline: Sunday 08/02/2026