British Trust for Ornithology

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IMPORTANT Unbiased Recruitment and Making an Application

As part of our commitment to reduce bias in our hiring process and improve equity of opportunity, diversity and inclusion in BTO, we use a recruitment system that enables Unbiased Recruitment. This involves using a standard application form and a system that removes details that may reveal a person's gender identity, race, religion, or socioeconomic background. We do not accept CVs or cover letters for this reason. If the application system is a barrier to applying, please email recruitment@bto.org to discuss alternatives with the People Team.

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Equality and Diversity

We recognise that candidates from minority ethnic groups are under-represented in our organisation, and that there are often additional barriers present for people from these groups when applying for roles in the charity sector and beyond. We are committed to taking positive action to expand the diversity of our staff team, and if you meet the essential criteria for a role and are from a minority ethnic group, you'll be guaranteed a first stage interview.

Does this apply to you? By selecting 'yes' you give consent for us to disclose that you are applying under our policy of guaranteeing an Interview with the recruiting manager. If you do not opt-in your application will be considered alongside other candidates and you will not be guaranteed an interview if you meet the essential criteria. If you do opt-in and are not shortlisted you will be able to request feedback *

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Equality Act

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Job Details

Job Title: Special Methods Support Officer
Job Reference: HS1112818TheSMSO
Location: Thetford, Norfolk, United Kingdom
Salary: £28320.00 to £28320.00

Special Methods Support Officer
Thetford, Norfolk
Full time, 2 year contract
£28,320 per annum + 11% employer pension contribution

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.

You can read the full role description by clicking on the role description under 'supporting documents' in the job details on our careers page. Please contact us if you are not sure if you meet all the criteria for the role and would like to discuss the role in more detail.

WHAT DOES BTO DO?
BTO helps to secure the future for birds and nature, using our science, monitoring and data to inform good environmental decisions, inspiring others with the wonder of birds and empowering them to work with us. Our priority is to make a positive impact for birds, using our strong and objective science in partnership with others. We strive to work sustainably and to welcome everyone.

Our values
We are evidence-led, inclusive, collaborative and empowering.
Birds Science People; it is a powerful combination – will you be part of it?

WHAT WE OFFER
£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

Closing date for receipt of applications is 23:59 on Sunday 1st September and Interviews will be held in Thetford on Wednesday 11th September. If you have any questions, please contact recruitment@bto.org

If you have a disability or long-term illness that otherwise prevents you from meeting any of the essential criteria, please contact us to discuss whether a reasonable adjustment could be made.
As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the vacancy.

We recognise that candidates from minority ethnic groups are under-represented in our organisation, and that there are often additional barriers present for people from these groups when applying for roles in the charity sector and beyond. We are committed to taking positive action to expand the diversity of our staff team, and if you meet the essential criteria for a role and are from a minority ethnic background, you'll be guaranteed a first stage interview.

Charity No. 216652 (E&W); SC039193 (Scotland)