Location
Scottish Borders, Dumfries & Galloway and South Ayrshire

Hours
Full Time

Salary
£27,000 per annum

About the Role
Restoring Upland Nature, a Scottish charity, is seeking to appoint two full-time Project Officers to support the work of 17 volunteer groups dedicated to securing the future of red squirrels in the South of Scotland as part of the new Red Squirrel Recovery Network (RSRN). The RSRN is a collaborative project aiming to build on 20 years of conservation efforts and lay the foundations for species recovery across Northern England and Southern Scotland, focusing on the Scottish Borders, Dumfries & Galloway, and South Ayrshire. Funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, this is the first project to coordinate efforts across the entire red squirrel population range at a super-landscape scale, bringing together groups from both sides of the English-Scottish border.

The project plays a vital role in wider nature recovery ambitions, aiming to achieve lasting change within five years to secure the future of this iconic species as part of a natural and functioning ecosystem. The role involves working closely with a well-connected and resilient network of volunteers, local residents, and visitors.

As a Project Officer, you will build and maintain strong relationships with new and existing volunteer groups across southern Scotland. You will engage with woodland owners, their agents, stakeholders, and the public to provide guidance on red squirrel conservation and advice on managing grey squirrel impacts. You will develop and facilitate relationships between volunteers, local groups, landowners, managers, and other stakeholders to increase land availability for conservation activities and support groups in securing income, including accessing or establishing agri-environment schemes and agreements.

This role requires initiative, autonomy, and excellent interpersonal skills to establish effective working relationships with colleagues, partners, and volunteers. You will also share lessons learned with other Project Officers, delivery partners, and the RSRN partnership. Applicants must live in the South of Scotland and be prepared to travel. Interviews will be conducted in person. The closing date for applications is 7th December 2025.

Experience
Experience in conservation, community engagement, or project delivery is desirable. Proven ability to work independently and manage relationships with diverse stakeholders is essential.

About you
You are motivated, proactive, and able to work autonomously. You have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong working relationships with volunteers, landowners, and partner organisations. You are committed to nature conservation and able to travel regularly within the South of Scotland.

Qualifications
Relevant qualifications in ecology, conservation, environmental science, or related fields are advantageous but not essential. A full driving licence is desirable due to the travel requirements of the role.