Special Methods Support Officer

The Ringing and Nest Recording Team are seeking to recruit an individual with an interest in birds to support the processes involved in licensing of ringing activities, with a primary focus on reviewing and approving requests to fit unconventional marks and tracking devices (collectively termed 'Special Methods') to birds.

We appreciate that relatively few people have direct experience of Special Methods, but suitable applicants must be able to demonstrate the aptitude and enthusiasm to expand their knowledge and skillset in this area. The successful candidate will be trained and supported to independently undertake the operational work associated with Special Methods applications and approvals, in liaison with the Special Methods Technical Panel. They will assist other members of the Licensing Team to develop existing Special Methods protocols.

A secondary element of the role will involve working with other team members to process applications and renewals for Ringing and Schedule 1 permits. An overview of the current ringing and nest recording licensing processes can be found here: https://www.bto.org/our-science/projects/bird-ringing-scheme/about-ringing/overview-licensing/how-we-license-marking-and
The successful applicant will work within the ADS Team, which comprises 12 staff working to support the Ringing and Nest Recording Schemes.

This will be a full-time, fixed term contract for two years. This position is based at our HQ in Thetford, Norfolk although you will be able to work from home part of the time on a hybrid working regime and flexible start and finish times can also be accommodated to ensure a good work-life balance.

£28,320 per annum
Annual leave entitlement on starting is 25 days plus bank holidays (pro rata if part time).
Paid 'journey days' (up to 2 days) to staff who travel on holiday by land or sea instead of flying.
Life assurance (four times salary)
11% employer pension contribution
Employee Assistance Programme offering help and advice to staff and their families on matters related to bereavement, wellbeing, finances, relationships, family and more. This includes a number of free counselling sessions if they are needed.
Enhanced sick pay
Enhanced Family leave- Maternity, Adoption, and Shared Parental Leave, 12 weeks at full pay. Paternity and Partner leave, 4 weeks at full pay.
Retail discounts
Cycle to work scheme- spread the cost of purchasing a new bike and save money
Discounts on: BTO books, Bird care from Vine House Farm (10% discount on orders placed on the website) and Opticron (30% off)
Free access to BTO training courses
Flexible working- A combination of home and office working and flexible start and finish times (where this meets business needs)
Free eye tests and a contribution of £49 towards prescription glasses for VDU use only.
Free car parking
Effective job evaluation policy that recognises where staff increase their level of responsibility over time
Coaching and mentoring scheme
Staff groups and forums- First Aiders and mental health first aiders, Coaching and mentoring, Diversity working, Sustainability and Natural Working, Becoming Inclusive, and our staff group creating a positive and welcoming culture to work in.
Commitment to creating an inclusive environment
Commitment to sustainability