Supported by Fair Isle Bird Observatory and West Midland Bird Club

We are excited to announce a new opportunity for young birders and aspiring naturalists aged 18-27 from the West Midlands.

We are offering a two week residential placement at the Fair Isle Bird Observatory on the southernmost of the Shetland Islands in Scotland.

It’s a rare opportunity to visit and work at one of the UK’s premier bird observatories and get involved with all aspects of Observatory life at a heavily subsidised rate.

This is a joint scheme between Fair Isle Bird Observatory (FIBO) and West Midland Bird Club (WMBC).

Duration and timing

Two positions are available, with successful candidates staying at the Observatory for two weeks from 6th to 20th August 2026.

What we offer

You will join Observatory staff with conservation activities including late-season seabird monitoring of Great and Arctic Skuas, Storm Petrel, Fulmar and Puffin. You will also accompany staff on census routes as autumn migration begins, and join ringing activities carried out by the team.

You will also support public engagement activities such as working with the Ranger to help deliver guided walks, ringing demonstrations and other public-facing work.

This is a unique opportunity to meet and work with engaging and adventurous people with a range of professional backgrounds and become part of the rich and varied experience that working at a Bird Observatory comprises.

Eligibility

Applications are open to those aged 18 to 27 and either living or studying in full-time education in the four counties covered by West Midland Bird Club (Staffordshire, Worcestershire, Warwickshire and West Midlands).

This programme is designed for young people the start of their careers and priority will be given to those seeking a career in a nature-based field.

Costs and logistics

Successful applicants will be asked to contribute £100 towards the cost of their visit, with the remainder of travel to and from the isle, and accommodation and food costs at the Observatory covered by WMBC and FIBO.

Travel will be arranged in conjunction with FIBO staff, with volunteers expected to travel via public transport to Aberdeen, take the Northlink ferry overnight to Lerwick with pod accommodation, followed by the short flight from nearby Tingwall Airport to Fair Isle.

Full board with a private en-suite room will be provided at the Observatory for the two-week period.

How to apply

Candidates should supply a short CV and a one-page covering letter explaining what skills and experience you hope to gain and how the scheme will support your career ambitions.

For the successful applicants, we will require a reference from an appropriate person.

If you’d like to find out more or discuss the opportunity before submitting an application, please email us on fairisle@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk.

Applications should be sent to fairisle@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk

The deadline for applications is 7th April 2026.