Seasonal Seagrass Field Assistant (2 Posts available)

UHI Shetland; Scalloway; On-site; GBP 27,000; Full time

Job description

Salary: £26,381 per year plus distant islands allowance (pro rata)

Contract Type: Temporary

Position Type: Full Time

Hours: 35 hours per week

Job Overview

We have an exciting opportunity for two Temporary Seasonal Seagrass Field Assistants to join UHI Shetland working on an exciting new project restoring seagrass in the Shetland Islands, as part of the SMEEF Scottish Seagrass Planting Programme. We are looking for enthusiastic, resourceful and resilient candidates keen to take an early step in a career in marine research or conservation to join our team in Shetland for 3 months over summer 2025 (flexible but preferably June to August).

Responsibilities

1. Deliver seagrass habitat monitoring surveys.
2. Trial seagrass planting in Shetland.
3. Field-based work including snorkelling, collecting survey and monitoring data, and collecting, processing, and replanting seagrass shoots.
4. Process and analyse video and survey data.
5. Organise field kit and coordinate volunteer activity.
6. Undertake blocks of field work which may include weekend and evening hours, as set by suitable weather and tide conditions.

Qualifications

The successful candidate will have experience of snorkelling in cold water environments and will ideally hold a recognised dive, snorkel, or free-diving qualification. Candidates will ideally be studying for or hold either a degree in a relevant area, such as marine biology or ecology, or will have relevant practical experience and skills and a desire to be involved in practical restoration activities.

About UHI Shetland

UHI Shetland is part of the University of the Highlands and Islands, Scotland's newest university. Founded 20 years ago, we offer well-equipped, modern facilities and provide applied research, consultancies, and knowledge exchange projects together with high-quality accredited and bespoke training.

UHI Shetland mirrors National terms and conditions, offering a generous 45 days per year Annual Leave allowance, and a standard 35 hours per week for full-time staff.

For residents of Shetland, Distant Islands Allowance is currently set at £2,859 which would be in addition to any salary payment (pro Rata).

UHI Shetland is an equal opportunities employer operating a blind recruitment process and will not accept CVs as part of an application.

Applications for this job cannot be made online. Please refer to the advert for further information.