WWT – Reserve Warden

Northern Ireland Environment Link; Comber; Hybrid; GBP 12,000 - 18,000; Part time

Job summary

WWT Castle Espie in Comber is seeking a practical part-time Reserve Warden to help care for internationally significant habitats and wildlife while inspiring visitors and volunteers to connect with nature.

As part of the reserve team, you will support day-to-day management through habitat tasks, species monitoring, estate maintenance and engaging visitor activities. This hands-on role offers a great chance to develop a conservation career and contribute to meaningful environmental outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Assist in delivering the reserve management plan across wetland habitats and shoreline.
• Undertake ecological monitoring, including breeding bird surveys and WeBS counts.
• Support habitat management, estate maintenance and infrastructure upkeep across the reserve.
• Safely operate and maintain machinery, tools, and equipment.
• Work alongside volunteers, contractors and placements to create a positive and rewarding experience.
• Deliver guided walks and engage visitors in understanding wetlands and wildlife conservation.
• Support visitor centre operations when required and contribute to the overall visitor experience.

Job description

Location: Castle Espie. 78 Ballydrain Rd, Comber, Newtownards BT23 6EA

WWT is entering an exciting new phase at WWT Castle Espie, repositioning the site as a dedicated hub for wetland nature conservation on Strangford Lough, one of the UK’s most important wetland landscapes. As part of this transformation, we are looking for an enthusiastic and practical part‑time Reserve Warden to help care for internationally significant habitats and wildlife while inspiring visitors and volunteers to connect with nature.

Working as part of the reserve team, you will support the day‑to‑day management of the reserve through habitat management, species monitoring, estate maintenance, and visitor engagement activities. This is a hands‑on role that offers an excellent opportunity to develop your conservation career while contributing to meaningful environmental outcomes.

Key responsibilities

• Assist in delivering the reserve management plan across wetland habitats and the shoreline of Strangford Lough.
• Undertake ecological monitoring, including breeding bird surveys, WeBS counts, and other wildlife surveys.
• Support habitat management, estate maintenance and infrastructure upkeep across the reserve.
• Safely operate and maintain machinery, tools, and equipment.
• Work alongside volunteers, contractors and work experience placements, helping to create a positive and rewarding experience.
• Deliver guided walks and engage visitors in understanding wetlands and wildlife conservation.
• Support visitor centre operations when required and contribute to the overall visitor experience.

This is a part‑time position, working 22.5 hours per week, including weekend and bank holiday working.