Name: Casey-Jo Zammit
Employer: Isle of Gigha Heritage Trust
Location: Isle of Gigha
Job Responsibilities:
Majority of time is spent doing:
Work to improve visitor experience, whilst promoting on the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
Interpret the islands historical heritage through education and online engagement
Time is spent: 60% outdoors, 40% indoors.
There is some seasonal variation: summer is very heavily focused on visitor management and biological summer surveys. Winter months are more focused on marine litter and habitat management / conservation activities.
Qualifications needed: A degree was not essential to my employment, but I have a Master’s degree in Environmental Conservation & Management.
Additional training:
Skills needed:
Advice to anyone looking at similar roles:
Rather than going through formal education channels, practical experience is worth its weight in gold. Whilst volunteering can come at a huge personal expense in some cases, volunteering opportunities are the best way to understand the role of a Ranger and to equip people with the skills necessary. One benefit to the pandemic was the availability to online short courses, especially with regards to natural history/natural heritage, these are a fabulous way to become more informed about species and conservation efforts.
It's also really worth a prior conversation with the organisation to which one applies, because every Ranger post is so different, and many are meeting project funding outcomes or needs of local authorities/organisations. It’s worth researching and chatting to rangers before applying to ensure the role meets expectations.
If you have any queries about this role or would like to ask a question of the job holder please contact Casey-Jo on ranger@gigha.org.uk