Calf of Man – Estate Warden

The Estate Warden is a full-season, residential role based on the Calf of Man, responsible for the care, upkeep and day-to-day running of this unique island nature reserve and its Bird Observatory. Working alongside the Ornithological Warden, you will look after the island’s buildings, machinery, tracks, harbours and utilities, while also helping manage habitats, livestock and visitor facilities to ensure the Calf remains safe, welcoming and in good condition.

A major part of the role is supporting the Manx Shearwater Recovery Project, including monitoring and maintaining rat detection and control systems, alongside wider habitat management such as bracken control, pond clearance, fencing and tree planting. You will supervise the Volunteer Estate Warden, work with visiting contractors and volunteers, and play a key role in welcoming and briefing overnight guests, visiting researchers and tour groups.

The role also supports wildlife monitoring, including assisting with seabird and shearwater surveys, butterfly and moth recording, lizard monitoring and monthly seal counts. This is a practical, hands-on position for someone who enjoys working outdoors in a remote island setting, combining conservation, estate management and people skills to help protect one of the Isle of Man’s most important wildlife sites. Accommodation and training are provided on site. 

This role is subject to MWT being awarded the contract to manage the site. The recruitment is being run in advance to allow timely appointment if the contract is confirmed, and does not imply that the contract has been awarded.