Purpose of the role
To carry out all aspects of bait station deployment, monitoring, biosecurity and data recording across the project area. This is physically demanding, technically challenging, and meaningful conservation work, carried out in some of the most spectacular coastal terrain in the English Channel.
This role forms the operational backbone of the ASRP’s field team, responsible for delivering the rat eradication and monitoring programme across all project terrain, including coastal cliff faces and sea stacks accessible only by rope access. During cliff access work staff work under the direction of the Climbing Supervisor (IRATA Level 3).
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Eradication & Control Operations
- Deploy, service and monitor bait stations across the defined project area in accordance with the Operational Plan and bait station grid specifications.
- Maintain accurate, real-time field records of bait consumption, station condition, and any non-target species observations at each station.
- Deploy and check tracking tunnels, camera traps, wax tags and other monitoring devices; record and report all signs of rodent activity promptly.
- Contribute to the project field data system to ensure the programme of works is constantly monitored and updated with accurate field data.
- Support management and replenishment of rodenticide stocks, following all safe handling, storage and disposal protocols in full.
- Carry out physical maintenance of bait stations, monitoring infrastructure, and field equipment throughout the operational period.
- Contribute to the long-term rat-control border, including deployment and servicing of permanent surveillance stations.
- Work from certified vessels to access shoreline locations, including beaches and near shore stacks.
- Support vehicle operations both as a driver and in general upkeep.
Rope Access & Cliff Operations
- Operate under the direction of the Climbing Supervisor, contribute actively to safe and effective team working, and maintain continuous situational awareness throughout all climbing operations.
- Assist with rigging, de-rigging and the safe management of rope-access equipment before, during and after every operation.
- Maintain IRATA-compliant personal equipment inspection records; report any defects or concerns to the Climbing Supervisor or Field Manager before any further use.
- Deploy, service and monitor bait stations and tracking/surveillance equipment on cliff-face and sea stack locations.
Health, Safety & Biosecurity
- Comply with all H&S requirements, safe systems of work, and RAMS documentation applicable to your activities at all times.
- Actively participate in daily toolbox talks, team briefings, and H&S checks before operations commence each day.
- Follow site specific biosecurity requirements.
- Report all near-misses, incidents and H&S concerns immediately to the Field Manager.
- Maintain personal first aid kit and be prepared to assist in field first aid situations.
Communication & Record-Keeping
- Maintain accurate, legible and timely field records in the formats specified by the project.
- Communicate professionally and courteously with any members of the public encountered during field operations, in line with the project’s stakeholder communications protocols.
- Report any unusual species sightings — including target species activity, returning seabirds such as puffin, or notable ecological changes — to the Field Manager promptly.
- Participate in team debriefs and contribute constructively to the ongoing operational review process.
Contract Type
Fixed-term employment contract, October 2026 to March 2028.