Youth Representative
Remote
Voluntary Role

Being a Youth Representative looks different to everyone, because it will depend on where you are based, how much time you can commit, and what your interests are. Typically Youth Representatives attend online meetings and training, organise events (both online and in-person), and join the BTO staff team for events and activities. 

We are looking for motivated young people who want to join a community and make a difference. You should apply if you:

• Are between 16 and 24 years old
• Speak and understand english well
• Are passionate about nature (but you don’t need to know everything about birds!)
• Are able to organise at least two events per year, in-person or online, with the support of our staff
• Have an open mind and are respectful of all people, even if they are different, or think differently, to you.
• Want to help other young people find their connection with nature (but you don’t need experience in working with young people!)
• Are available to join virtual meetings on Zoom at least once a month, and in-person meetings at least once a year. (all expenses are covered)
   

You can read the full role description in the application pack by clicking on the role description under 'supporting documents' in the job details on our careers page. Instructions on how to apply are on page 9 of the application pack. 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 are:
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
This is a volunteer position, which means there is no pay for this work however we will:

• Cover all your expenses, including meals, transport, accommodation, and training.
• Offer you extensive training, from First Aid and networking, to bird ID and public speaking.
• Opportunities to represent the BTO at events, such as conferences, exhibitions, fairs, university events and more.
• Give you 1:1 support; ranging from finding opportunities in topics you are interested in or need help with, to help with applying for jobs.
• Provide references for you on job applications or university applications.
• Access to BTO and its partners, giving you the chance to connect to a wide network of people, jobs and other opportunities in conservation. 
• Free access to BTO training courses

BTO Youths vision for the future is that of “A diverse, vibrant community of young birders supported by BTO, with accessible, youth-led opportunities inspiring young people to engage with nature and science.”

Closing date for receipt of applications is Sunday 17th November 11:59pm and Interviews will be held on Zoom via appointment from 25th November to the 6th December.

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)