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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team in conservation work and manage a stunning natural site.
- Company: Join the National Trust, dedicated to preserving nature and history for everyone.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holiday, and perks like gym discounts and free entry to Trust places.
- Why this job: Work in a unique, wild environment while making a real impact on conservation efforts.
- Qualifications: Experience in land management and conservation, plus a diploma or relevant experience required.
- Other info: Must be comfortable working near water and willing to gain boating qualifications.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Job Description
Summary
This is an exciting opportunity to join the team at Orford Ness as our Area Ranger, managing a team of rangers and volunteers as you deliver and conservation work on one of the most highly designated conservation sites in the east of England.
You will inspire others through your love of the outdoors and ensure that all aspects of this site’s landscape, wildlife and infrastructure are sustainably managed and cared for.
For this role you'll need a full UK driving license and a willingness to work towards a Boating qualification (PB2).
The advertised salary for this role will be in effect from 1st April.
This role is required to work with vulnerable groups including children and any offer of employment or volunteering is subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS check.
What it's like to work here
Wild, remote, and exposed, Orford Ness is ranked among the most important shingle features in the world, where rare and fragile wildlife thrive. Nationally and internationally recognised for its wildlife, it also has a fascinating history as a secret 20th century military testing facility.
The landscape is bordered by the Alde/Ore Estuary on one side and the North Sea on the other and is accessed only by boat. You’ll work with both the on site team and across the Suffolk & Essex Coast portfolio at a variety of different sites and habitats.
What you'll be doing
You’ll be responsible for the day to day management of this countryside property, which includes equipment and infrastructure maintenance habitat management, ecological monitoring, visitor experience and site presentation. Working on what is effectively an island means you'll need a 'can-do' attitude and as part of a small team, you'll be adaptable and always willing to step in to help across the property.
You’ll also take responsibility for compliance, including the health and safety of your team, supporting your fellow rangers in undertaking engagement and conservation work, and contributing towards both project and property performance targets.
You’ll be responsible for helping to communicate our conservation work to a wide range of audiences, both new and existing, through events, guided walks and PR and press opportunities, as well as engaging with local communities.
You'll work as part of the property Duty Management team, including weekend and Bank Holiday working on a rota basis. Due to the location of the site you’ll need to be comfortable working on/near water and be happy to train towards & gain boating qualifications, if not already held.
Who we're looking for
We’d love to hear from you if you’re:
- experienced in managing land, nature conservation and access for people, including running small projects and supervising contractors
- used to developing, writing and implementing programmes of work to achieve specific goals for conservation
- a strong team player, with a track record in leading and managing staff and volunteers
- practical and skilled in looking after a range of habitats and landscapes, with certificates in chainsaw use, tractor driving and towing trailers
- have good wildlife identification skills & Habitat and species surveying experience
- able to work safely, and take the lead on compliance – including writing risk assessments, and safety and environmental procedures
- happy to talk – with enthusiasm and commitment – to all kinds of people about the work you do and why it matters
- diploma/NVQ3 or higher in countryside/environmental conservation or equivalent role-relevant experience
The package
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)
•Rental deposit loan scheme
•Season ticket loan
•EV car lease scheme
•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
Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.
Area Ranger employer: National Trust
Contact Detail:
National Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Area Ranger
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the unique landscape and wildlife of Orford Ness. Understanding the specific conservation challenges and opportunities in this area will help you demonstrate your passion and knowledge during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience you have in managing teams or volunteers, especially in outdoor or conservation settings. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led projects or initiatives.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your practical skills related to habitat management and wildlife identification. Being able to talk confidently about your hands-on experience will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your enthusiasm for community engagement and education. Think of ways you can inspire others about conservation work, as this role involves communicating with diverse audiences and local communities.
We think you need these skills to ace Area Ranger
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Area Ranger position. Understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications, such as experience in land management and conservation.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasize your experience in managing land and nature conservation. Include specific examples of projects you've led or participated in, especially those that demonstrate your ability to work with teams and volunteers.
Show Your Passion for Conservation: Express your enthusiasm for the outdoors and conservation work in your cover letter. Share personal stories or experiences that illustrate your commitment to protecting wildlife and managing landscapes sustainably.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the job. Highlight any relevant qualifications, such as certificates in chainsaw use or habitat surveying, and ensure it reflects your skills in compliance and safety management.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Trust
✨Show Your Passion for Conservation
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for nature conservation and the outdoors. Share personal experiences that highlight your commitment to preserving wildlife and managing landscapes, as this role requires a genuine love for the environment.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since you'll be managing a team of rangers and volunteers, it's crucial to showcase your leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, managed projects, or engaged with local communities.
✨Highlight Relevant Qualifications
Be ready to discuss your qualifications, such as any diplomas or certifications in countryside or environmental conservation. If you have experience with chainsaw use, tractor driving, or habitat surveying, make sure to mention these skills during the interview.
✨Prepare for Compliance Questions
Given the importance of health and safety in this role, be prepared to answer questions about compliance. Familiarize yourself with writing risk assessments and safety procedures, and be ready to discuss how you ensure a safe working environment for your team.
