We're looking for two individuals to help us out over the Winter.
12 November 2025
Position: Spurn Bird Observatory Residential Winter Volunteer
Location: Spurn Bird Observatory, East Riding of Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Duration: Winter Season (1st December 2025 until 9th March 2026)
About Spurn Bird Observatory:
Spurn Bird Observatory is a renowned location for birdwatching and conservation in an area of great ecological significance. We focus on monitoring, recording and conserving birds and their habitats, providing valuable data for research and conservation.
Role Overview:
As a Residential Winter Volunteer, you’ll support the day-to-day running of the Observatory during the winter season. You’ll gain hands-on experience across conservation tasks while helping to maintain and improve our facilities and estate.
Key Responsibilities:
Habitat management / work parties: Coppicing, bramble clearance, repairs to Heligoland traps, and other winter habitat work across the Observatory’s land in readiness for the breeding season.
Estate & facilities maintenance: Painting and decorating the accommodation building; general maintenance; cleaning and upkeep of accommodation and grounds to ensure a welcoming, functional environment for guests and researchers.
Bird surveys & data collection: Assisting with surveys and observations (e.g. the Wetland Bird Survey), and supporting count/recording efforts.
Visitor engagement: Welcoming visitors and sharing information about the Observatory, our mission and the importance of conservation.
Education & events: Contributing to guided walks and supporting our series of Winter Work Parties, with Health and Safety foremost.
Requirements:
A passion for wildlife conservation and an interest in ornithology.
Willingness to work outdoors in varied weather and terrain.
Good communication skills and a friendly, approachable demeanour.
Flexibility, adaptability and a can-do attitude within a team environment.
Desirable: Qualifications for operating machinery (e.g. brushcutters, hedge trimmers).
Benefits:
Accommodation provided at the Observatory.
Reasonable food and travel expenses reimbursed.
Practical experience in conservation, estate and habitat management, and bird monitoring.
Opportunities to learn from experienced ornithologists and conservationists.
Immersion in a unique natural setting with the chance to witness winter movements and migration.
Note: This is an unpaid volunteer position. Volunteers receive training, accommodation, and reimbursement of reasonable food and travel expenses, and the invaluable experience of contributing to conservation efforts at Spurn Bird Observatory.
How to Apply:
Closing date for receipt of applications is 23:59 on Sunday 30 November and Interviews will be held virtually. If you have any questions, please contact Rob Hunton, Observatory Manager, at info@spurnbirdobservatory.co.uk
To apply, please complete the application form on this link; https://forms.gle/1HigqyDJbsQsZS2L9 by the closing date above.
