Volunteers Sought to Assist HWDT

The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust (HWDT) are recruiting volunteers to assist with a variety of tasks over the forthcoming field season – between May and September.  HWDT is a small, dynamic conservation organisation based on the Isle of Mull  in Scotland which relies on the help of volunteers to accomplish tasks and activities. Shore-based volunteers contribute to the overall operation of the Trust, while paying volunteers assist with data collection aboard Silurian, the Trust’s research yacht. Volunteer tasks will include:

·         Attending events; raising the profile of HWDT through engagement with the public and distribution of HWDT resources

·         Assisting in HWDT’s Visitor Centre and shop; the premises are located on Tobermory’s busy Main Street and have a high footfall over the season.  Tasks will include manning the shop, updating information displayed and engaging with visitors.

·         Assisting with educational activities

·         Coordinating beach cleans and cetacean watches

·         General office tasks; updating databases, sending out resources, etc.

·         Potentially assisting with strandings.

Volunteers must be aged 18 or older.  Volunteers do not need to have any prior knowledge of cetaceans - although this would be of benefit - as training will be provided.  Volunteers must offer a minimum of 16 hours a week to HWDT and are expected to commit to a period of at least one month.  HWDT's season runs from May until September and volunteers will be sought throughout.  Unfortunately HWDT cannot offer to cover any expenses incurred during your time spent volunteering.  However, Morven will be on hand to assist you with finding accommodation in Tobermory and help finding paid work if need be.          

Requirements

Essential:

• An ability to work in a conscientious and reliable manner
• Enthusiastic, hard-working and self-motivated
• A strong commitment to volunteer work
• Excellent verbal and communication skills (engaging with the public is central to the role)
• Basic IT skills (MS Office package, including Access)
• An ability to get on well with others in a small team.
  
  

Desirable:

• A background in marine biology/environmental science or similar
• A strong interest in and knowledge of British cetaceans
• Experience in interacting and engaging with the public
• A driving licence and own transport

 

The closing date for applications is Friday 27^th February with Skype interviews conducted in the week commencing Monday 9^th March. Please submit your application, comprising a CV and cover letter, to 

Morven Russell volunteercoordinator@hwdt.org