Residential Volunteer and Guide

• WDC Scottish Dolphin Centre

• VO71176

WDC is a leading global charity dedicated to the protection of whales, dolphins and their habitats. At our Scottish Dolphin Centre, we connect people with nature through inspiring visitor experiences, education programmes and citizen science.

We are committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive and supportive environment. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, cultures, identities and lived experiences. Diversity strengthens our work and helps us better reflect and serve the communities we engage with. Overseas volunteers are welcome to apply.

The location

The Scottish Dolphin Centre sits at the mouth of the River Spey where it meets the Moray Firth, beside a beautiful nature reserve (see on map). This is home to the world’s largest bottlenose dolphins, along with ospreys, seals, otters and a wide variety of other wildlife.

What you’ll be doing

This role is primarily focused on community engagement and visitor experience, rather than field research.

You will:

Deliver engaging, accessible and high-quality visitor experiences through talks, tours, interpretation and events.
Support the Education Coordinator to deliver WDC’s education programme, including outdoor learning sessions and workshops.
Assist the Shorewatch Coordinator with land-based data collection and help support Shorewatch volunteers across the Moray Firth.
Work collaboratively with staff and fellow volunteers to create a welcoming and inclusive space for all visitors.

What you’ll gain

Confidence in public speaking, interpretation and engaging diverse audiences.
Experience in environmental and outdoor education.
Skills in community outreach, visitor engagement and event delivery.
Insight into citizen science and conservation data collection.
Teamwork, communication and leadership skills within a supportive conservation setting.

What we offer

Free onsite accommodation in an area of outstanding natural beauty.
£35 weekly food allowance per person.
Extensive training, mentoring and ongoing support throughout your placement.
The opportunity to contribute meaningfully to marine conservation while living and working in a unique coastal location.

Who we’re looking for

You don’t need a specific background in conservation to apply. We’re particularly keen to hear from people who:

Are enthusiastic about nature, wildlife or the environment.
Enjoy communicating with people of all ages and backgrounds.
Are open to learning, working as part of a team and trying new things.
Can commit to the full duration of the programme.

If you don’t meet every point but feel excited by the role, we’d still love to hear from you.

CLOSING DATE TO APPLY: 10am Monday 19 January 2026

Experience required

You don’t need a specific background in conservation to apply. We’re particularly keen to hear from people who:

Are enthusiastic about nature, wildlife or the environment.
Enjoy communicating with people of all ages and backgrounds.
Are open to learning, working as part of a team and trying new things.
Can commit to the full duration of the programme.
If you don’t meet every point but feel excited by the role, we’d still love to hear from you.

Travel details

Located at the Scottish Dolphin Centre, Spey Bay. Free onsite accommodation provided.

Travel expenses

Free onsite accommodation. £35 per week food allowance per person.

• About
• Location
• Notes

Dates

3 March - 28 August 2026

Restrictions

Minimum age: 16

Availability

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Morning

Afternoon

Evening

Volunteers (aged 16-25) taking part in this opportunity are eligible to claim Saltire Awards hours for their activity.
Find out more

This volunteering opportunity is also advertised across Moray.

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