Ranger

Rangers have been a part of the National Trust since the beginning - the voice of our landscapes, conservation champions and lovers of all things outdoors. In this exciting role you will play an integral role in preserving ancient semi-natural woodland and SSSI limestone grassland, as well as assisting with one of the largest parkland restoration projects in Europe. Come rain or shine, your love of the outdoors will inspire others as you ensure we maintain a high standard of presentation, pioneering conservation work and improving access for everyone.

The Cotswolds National Landscape is rich in history,from nationally important grassland and woodland to Grade I listed buildings and parkland, there's a lot to get excited about.

The role will be based out of our Sherborne Estate office and day to day you will support the two Area Rangers on a collection of sites including Bibury, Dover’s Hill, Littleworth Wood and the Sherborne Estate. You’ll help with the protection and care of habitats, wildlife, access and machinery.

 Bibury is one of the most visited sites in the region but there is more than meets the eye in this charming village – grass snake, kingfisher and water vole also call it home and through conservation grazing we manage the village’s wet meadow with wildlife in mind. On the North Cotswold escarpment sits Dover’s Hill, a large swathe of open access land, wood pasture and mixed stand woodland that is popular with walkers.

The Sherborne Estate has a diverse range of habitats, including limestone grassland, parkland, broadleaved woodland, water meadows, arable, pasture, and rivers. It has extensive footpath and bridleway access across the estate. We also care for the village of Sherborne – a quintessential Cotswolds village boasting stunning surrounding parkland.

This is a wonderful opportunity and a really fulfilling role for someone with the skills, experience, and flexibility to make an impact and lead with enthusiasm, pace and passion.

Reporting to the North Cotswolds Area Ranger you will be key in assisting with the management of multiple Cotswolds properties working alongside rangers, volunteers and the local communities to enhance and protect the Cotswolds landscape. The role is varied, and no two days will be the same. It will involve:

·      Maintaining high levels of presentation across the estate including footpaths, gates and car parks.

·      Working with a project team to deliver habitat creation, surveying and monitoring.

·      Leading regular volunteer groups.

·      Delivering woodland thinning and ride management, involving the use of chainsaws.

·      Developing good working relations with our tenants.

·      Use and maintenance of all forms of tools and machinery

·      Supporting with compliance tasks such as bridge and footpath inspections.

We’d love to hear from you if you’re:

• practically experienced in conservation work, to protect and improve habitats and landscapes
• happy to talk to all kinds of people about the work you’re doing, and why it matters
• hard-working and willing to learn
• able to work safely, using risk assessments and following guidelines
• experienced in managing land, access and conservation, and working outdoors
• able to use machinery and equipment, with relevant certificates
• a driver with a full UK driving licence

The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.

• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary

• Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)

• Tax-free childcare scheme

• Rental deposit loan scheme

• Season ticket loan

• Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts

• Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.

• Flexible working whenever possible

• Employee assistance programme

• Free parking at most Trust places

• Independent financial advice

Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.