Job opportunities

Seasonal Bird Staff

The bird team is expanding at Muncaster Hawk & Owl Centre and we are looking for a seasonal member of bird staff to join our small and dedicated team. Based in the Lake District National Park, Muncaster Hawk & Owl Centre is a collection focusing on the care and conservation of raptors. This role will involve duties that aid in implementing the highest standards of bird of prey welfare and husbandry, delivering strong conservation and education messages as well as the day-to-day operational running of the facility. We will provide full training and support to the right candidate for this entry level role.

The Centre is part of an award winning visitor attraction with other attractions including 77 acres of gardens, Muncaster Castle and various other activities. The Hawk & Owl Centre was established in 2015 and is continually evolving as we strive for excellence in our work with raptors. Our bird of prey collection is entirely free-lofted and we are now moving into an exciting phase as we develop breeding programs for our endangered species. We deliver daily free flight displays with a range of species to 60,000 visitors per year.

Contract: This is a full-time seasonal position working 40 hours a week starting March to October. Candidates should be flexible enough to work bank holidays and weekends.

Due to the requirement to drive company vehicles onsite, a full UK driver’s license is essential for this role. Applicants should also be eligible to work in the UK before applying.

Desirable candidate qualities include:

• Experience within the animal sector, especially with birds.

• Strong communication skills and excellent time management.

• Ability to demonstrate a passion for birds and their conservation.

• Ability to work both as part of a team as well as independently.

• A decent level of fitness to cope with the physical demands of the job and a love of working outdoors.

• Confidence in public speaking to a variety of group sizes.

• Keen observational and problem-solving skills.

• Basic DIY and maintenance skills.

• A relevant animal qualification.

Main job responsibilities:

• Practice excellent standards of raptor welfare and husbandry.

• Assist in high impact and engaging free-flight displays and experiences to our guests.

• Public engagement, working to inspire a positive attitude towards birds of prey and nature.

• To clean and maintain Hawk & Owl Centre facilities, taking pride in its appearance.

• Assist with bird training using positive and modern training methods.

• Working with volunteers and work experience students.

• Commitment to self-learning.

• Participating in in-situ and ex-situ conservation and research projects as appropriate.

• Fundraising for conservation projects.

In return for your hard work, this role offers:

• Affordable staff accommodation available in close proximity to work (if needed).

• Continuous professional development with both in-house and external training opportunities.

• Working with a range of birds of prey, including owls, falcons, eagles, kites and vultures.

• Career progression.

• Staff uniform.

• 28 days annual leave.

• Passes to Muncaster Castle for family and friends.

• Discounts to local attractions.

• Pension plan.