Conservation Detection Dog Team Manager

RSPB; Kirkwall; On-site; GBP 33,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

A key conservation organization based in Kirkwall is seeking an experienced conservation detection dog team manager to lead operations in supporting the stoat eradication initiative. The ideal candidate has a strong background in managing detection dog teams and the ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with various stakeholders. This full-time role offers a salary range of £33,027.00 - £35,259.00 per annum.

Qualifications

• Experience following strict guidelines for conservation detection dogs.
• Experience working with local communities.
• Ability to lead change under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Support the stoat eradication operation and biosecurity efforts.
• Lead the delivery of dog team operations in line with project methodology.
• Ensure handlers maintain their dogs’ capabilities.

Skills

Experience of utilising conservation detection dogs

Experience managing a diverse group of people

Experience developing and delivering a training programme

Demonstrable experience line managing staff

IT literate including Microsoft Office

Ability to produce clear written communications

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Full Driving licence

Job description

Reference: OCT20252894
Location: Orkney Native Wildlife Project – Kirkwall Office
Salary: £33,027.00 - £35,259.00 Per Annum
Contract: Fixed Term until the 31st of December, 2029
Hours: Full-Time, 37.5 hours per week

Stoats threaten the Orkney vole, and many birds. Scat detection dogs and passionate leadership are integral to our success, so we are looking for an experienced conservation detection dog team manager to join our team.

The Role

You will play a vital role in supporting the stoat eradication operation and biosecurity efforts across the Orkney Islands. This includes advocacy and media work as needed. A key responsibility will be housing one or two trained stoat detection dogs. You’ll bring experience in organising training, setting up work programmes, implementing a quality strategy, and overseeing the operations of a detection dog team.

You will lead the delivery of dog team operations in line with project methodology, you’ll also be responsible for agreeing and implementing a quality strategy for detection dog work, including regular reviews, updates to procedures, and ongoing training and assessment of dogs.

A critical part of your role will be ensuring all handlers maintain their dogs’ capabilities.

Strong communication and collaboration will be essential. You’ll keep all stakeholders fully informed, communicate progress and challenges through the Eradication Operations Manager, and work professionally within a large team.

Essential Behaviours Required:

• Encourages team collaboration and a sense of shared purpose
• Focus areas and activities are regularly evaluated to ensure meaningful impact is being achieved
• Acts as a champion for making decisions and leading from the front
• Promotes a culture of strong communication and positive relationships with our team, partners and wider community

Essential Skills, Experience, and Qualifications:

• Experience of utilising conservation detection dogs following strict guidelines and policy.
• Experience managing a diverse group of people, with a focus on integration, and high quality work outputs.
• Proven experience in developing and delivering a training programme for detection dogs, and/or handlers.
• Demonstrable experience line managing staff
• IT literate including Microsoft office programmes.
• An ability to produce clear written communications
• Ability to lead change and work under pressure to deliver time sensitive outputs
• Experience of working with local communities
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail and ability to understand financial systems
• Full Driving licence

Closing date: 2nd November 2025

Interviews from 12th November 2025

Apply HERE