‘Dream job’ looking after dolphins and whales advertised in Tobermory

A DREAM job helping care for whales, dolphins and turtles off the Scottish west coast has been advertised.

The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust wants a boat manager for its 60-feet research vessel Silurian, which sails each season around the Highlands and Islands, and featured in the seminal BBC Blue Planet series.

The part time job is offered with a two-year contract to January 2023 – and with the potential to extend – and is worth £27,000-a-year, pro rata.

HWDT is a small marine conservation charity based in Tobermory on Mull.

The 39-year-old ketch has berths for 10 people, including the four crew.

“The role is a unique position, pivotal to the delivery of our core research and education programmes on board our charity owned and operated vessel, Silurian. The boat manager is responsible for the crew, overseeing boat operations, and undertaking maintenance for Silurian,” the advert said.

“We are looking for somebody with a passion for our seas and wildlife and a desire to make our vessel, Silurian, the best it can be. We are seeking an enthusiastic selfmotivator, familiar with commercial vessel requirements, experienced in boat maintenance, with outstanding communication skills.

“The ability to ensure boat projects are delivered on time and within budget, as well as being able to work with the wider team of staff, trustees, volunteers, and external contractors to deliver project outcomes is central to all tasks. A genuine interest in cetaceans and marine conservation is essential and an understanding of the workings of a charity/ NGO would be an advantage.

“The role is part-time, however there is the opportunity to increase the number of hours by crewing surveys or education trips. Crew hours are contracted separately and in addition to the boat manager responsibilities.”

The deadline for applications is November 30.