At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to maintain and improve public footpaths and bridleways across Barnsley.
- Company: Barnsley Council, committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, training opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and support for applicants with diverse backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local access and environmental projects while working outdoors.
- Qualifications: Experience in countryside management and ability to lead a small team.
The predicted salary is between 35412 - 38220 £ per year.
Job reference: 50119141. Directorate: Growth and Sustainability | Service: BEST. Salary: £35,412 - £38,220. Working arrangements: On site, 7-3 Monday to Thursday, 7-2.30 Friday. Hours per week: 37. Contract type: Permanent. Closing date: 12/06/2026 at 23:59.
The successful candidate will be required to speak English to an appropriate standard. This post requires a Basic Criminal Record Check. Prospective employees will be required to give a reasonable account of any significant periods (6 months or more in the past 3 years) of time living abroad. When applying, please ensure you are prepared to start work with all the necessary legal documents, such as a valid visa, relevant to the type of work you will be undertaking. Please be aware that our organisation does not possess a Home Office license and, as a result, is unable to provide sponsorship for anyone seeking a visa as a skilled or temporary migrant worker. This role is defined as a safety critical role within the Drug & Alcohol Testing Procedure. You must therefore be willing to comply in accordance with this procedure. Pension regulations have provisions to reduce pension payments in certain circumstances of those who return to work within local government service. If you are in receipt of a pension upon commencing employment with the authority, this may affect your pension entitlements and you should therefore seek advice from the relevant Pensions Authority.
About The Post
We are looking for a practical, motivated and experienced Head Ranger to lead our dedicated Countryside Rangers team. The team maintains and improves approximately 780 kilometres of public footpaths and bridleways across Barnsley, helping to provide safe, accessible and welcoming routes for residents and visitors. This is a varied hands‑on leadership role. You will lead by example while planning, supervising and carrying out a wide range of countryside maintenance and improvement work, including vegetation clearance, bridge construction, repairs to stiles and gates, drainage and surfacing works, sign installation, habitat creation, and accessibility improvements. You will also help coordinate and motivate volunteers and support partnership working on biodiversity and environmental projects. The role involves working outdoors in all weathers and in a wide variety of locations, including remote sites that may only be accessed on foot over rough terrain while carrying materials and equipment. Appropriate personal protective equipment will be provided. You will have regular opportunities to develop your skills and knowledge, including practical and technical training. We are looking for someone who can identify the most suitable design and construction approach for each site, deliver high-quality and durable practical work, and bring a strong commitment to countryside access, environmental improvement, and public safety.
About You
- A full driving licence.
- Experience of using countryside machinery.
- Previous experience of working in estates or countryside management.
- A good standard of map reading skills.
- The ability to undertake heavy manual work.
- Knowledge of basic farming and land management practices.
- A strong understanding of health and safety and public safety responsibilities.
- The ability to lead, motivate and support a small team and volunteers to deliver safe high‑quality practical work.
If you are passionate about the countryside, enjoy practical outdoor work, and have the skills and experience to lead a team delivering safe public access improvements across the borough, we would love to hear from you. As part of the interview process, shortlisted candidates will be assessed on map reading and practical skills.
For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Sarah Ford, Principal PROW Officer, at sarahford@barnsley.gov.uk. Telephone: 07786 525942. Please ensure you view the job profile for this role, as you will need to demonstrate in your application form how you meet the required criteria. We welcome the opportunity to have a chat about the role and are happy to address any questions you may have about flexible working arrangements, including as a result of caring responsibilities. We're committed to creating a workplace where differences are valued and everyone truly feels able to be themselves. If you have any support needs during the recruitment process, please let us know. CV's are not accepted for this role. At Barnsley Council, we believe in second chances and value diversity. Our recruitment process is inclusive, and we welcome applicants with past convictions. We're committed to fairness and do not discriminate. Join us in building a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Apply via: www.barnsley.gov.uk/jobs.
Team Leader - Public Rights of Way in Barnsley employer: Barnsley Council
Barnsley Council is an excellent employer for those passionate about the countryside and public service, offering a supportive work culture that values diversity and inclusivity. Employees benefit from hands-on leadership opportunities, practical training, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on local communities through environmental projects. With a commitment to employee growth and a focus on teamwork, this role provides a rewarding experience in a beautiful outdoor setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Team Leader - Public Rights of Way in Barnsley
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role and the team! Research Barnsley Council and their projects. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your map reading and practical skills before the interview. Since these will be assessed, it’s a great way to demonstrate your competence and confidence in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t hesitate to reach out for an informal chat with Sarah Ford or others in the team. It’s a fantastic way to get insider info and show your enthusiasm for the role!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Barnsley Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Team Leader - Public Rights of Way in Barnsley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, make sure to read through the job description thoroughly. We want to see how your skills and experiences align with what they're looking for, so highlight those in your application!
Show Your Passion for the Outdoors:Since this role is all about countryside management, let your love for the outdoors shine through! Share any relevant experiences or projects that demonstrate your commitment to environmental improvement and public safety.
Be Specific About Your Skills:When detailing your experience, be specific! Mention any countryside machinery you've used, your map reading skills, and any leadership roles you've had. We want to see how you can lead a team effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply via the official website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets to the right place. Plus, it shows you're serious about the opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Barnsley Council
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Team Leader in Public Rights of Way. Familiarise yourself with the specific tasks mentioned in the job description, like countryside maintenance and working with volunteers. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and passion for the role.
✨Showcase Your Practical Skills
Since the interview will assess your map reading and practical skills, be prepared to discuss your previous experiences in countryside management. Bring examples of projects you've led or participated in, especially those involving heavy manual work or using countryside machinery. This will show that you have the hands-on experience needed for the job.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Qualities
As a Team Leader, you'll need to motivate and support your team. Think of examples where you've successfully led a group or coordinated volunteers. Be ready to share how you handle challenges and ensure safety while delivering high-quality work. This will highlight your leadership capabilities.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or the council's approach to biodiversity and environmental projects. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
