Employer: Lough Neagh Partnership Job Title: Lough Neagh Ranger Responsible To: Shoreline and Islands Team Manager Based At: Lough Neagh Partnership Offices, Unit 3, 135a Shore Road, Ballyronan, BT45 6JA Ranger duties will be undertaken on or around the entire Lough Neagh area Salary and Contract Salary: Local Government Salary Scale 6, Point 18 (gross £31,537 per annum) Contract: Fixed-term until 31 March 2028, with the possibility of a further 4-year extension subject to continued funding under the DAERA Environment Fund. Purpose of the Job The Lough Neagh Ranger will undertake practical survey, monitoring, and conservation work as part of the Lough Neagh Partnership Lough Neagh ASSI Management project, aimed at restoring and maintaining favourable condition of the Lough Neagh SPA and ASSI. The role will include survey, monitoring, and habitat management on Lough Neagh island breeding bird sites and shoreline sites, including Killycolpy, Killywoolaghan, Reas Wood & Farrs Bay SAC, and the School Lands at Derrytresk and Derrylaughan. Key Duties and Responsibilities Deliver the ASSI Management project on the Lough Neagh islands and other shoreline sites. Undertake habitat, bird, flora, fauna, and invertebrate surveys and monitoring (e.g. WeBS surveys, heronry surveys, Northern Ireland seabird and curlew surveys). Some surveys will be undertaken by boat. Upload survey data to the CEDaR website and share data with colleagues from DAERA, NIEA, and partner organisations as required. Carry out habitat management works and, where appropriate and consented, predator control activities. Prepare and submit survey and monitoring reports (habitat, invertebrates, birds, etc.). Engage with stakeholders, including landowners, farmers, fishermen, sand traders, wildfowlers, community groups, marinas, and recreational users. Develop, organise, and supervise a volunteer network and volunteer events. Undertake boat handling duties and maintain boats and habitat management equipment. Prepare risk assessments for all activities and ensure compliance with health and safety requirements, with sign-off from the Line Manager. Prepare and submit applications for consents and wildlife licences to DAERA/NIEA, ensuring all works comply with consent conditions. Liaise with and assist other members of the Lough Neagh Partnership team as required. Undertake representational duties on behalf of the Lough Neagh Partnership when required. Assist with media engagement as and when required. Undertake any other duties appropriate to the role. Person Specification Essential Criteria Candidates must demonstrate previous relevant experience in at least three of the following areas: Third-level qualification in environmental management, ecology, countryside management, or a related subject. Minimum of two years relevant work experience. Knowledge of Lough Neagh designations, its wildlife, and feature species. Excellent bird identification skills. Wildlife, invertebrate, and/or botanical survey and monitoring skills. Physical ability to undertake heavy manual labour in an outdoor environment. Experience of risk assessment and/or application of health and safety requirements. Data analysis and report-writing skills. Strong communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with members of the public. Full driving licence and access to own transport. IT competence, including Microsoft Office. Desirable Criteria Understanding of ASSI/SPA designations, consent processes, and wildlife licensing. Experience of volunteering and/or volunteer management. Experience in practical habitat management and conservation work. Relevant qualifications such as First Aid, strimming, chainsaw, or pesticide use. Ability to photograph and record wildlife. Knowledge of the CEDaR recording system and experience uploading data. Boat handling skills, including RYA Powerboat Level II. Equal Opportunities Lough Neagh Partnership is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. This is a unique opportunity to play a key role in the conservation and management of one of Northern Irelands most important natural assets.