At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage livestock care and deliver conservation grazing across Birmingham's parks.
- Company: Birmingham City Council, committed to enhancing biodiversity and community engagement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, pension contributions, and health support.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to conservation and biodiversity recovery.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Birmingham’s natural environment and engage with local communities.
- Qualifications: Experience with livestock, knowledge of animal welfare, and good communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 24796 - 28142 £ per year.
Birmingham City Council is seeking to recruit two Grazing & Livestock Rangers to support the delivery of conservation grazing across the city’s parks, open spaces and nature reserves. As part of Birmingham’s commitment as the UK’s first accredited Nature City, and delivery of the City of Nature 25-Year Plan, conservation grazing plays a vital role in enhancing biodiversity, improving habitats and maintaining our landscapes.
Working as part of the Ranger Service, you will be responsible for the day-to-day management, welfare and handling of livestock across a range of sites. This is a practical, hands-on role requiring experience, confidence and a strong commitment to animal welfare and environmental management.
Key Responsibilities- Manage the daily care, welfare and handling of livestock
- Deliver conservation grazing programmes across multiple sites
- Monitor animal health and liaise with veterinary professionals where required
- Maintain fencing, infrastructure and grazing areas
- Support habitat management and biodiversity objectives
- Engage with members of the public to promote understanding of conservation grazing
- Supervise volunteers and support community involvement
You will have:
- Proven experience working with livestock in a practical setting
- Knowledge of animal welfare standards and relevant legislation
- Confidence handling large animals in varied environments
- An understanding of conservation grazing and habitat management
- Good communication skills and the ability to engage with the public
- The ability to work independently and as part of a team
- A relevant qualification in agriculture, countryside management or a related field is desirable.
This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in shaping Birmingham’s natural environment, contributing to biodiversity recovery and working at the heart of local communities.
What we offer in return...
- Membership of West Midlands Pension Fund – with generous employer contributions
- Enhanced Holiday Entitlement – 30 days, increasing with length of service
- My Rewards Scheme – access to 800 brands providing discounts and savings
- Health and wellbeing support – independent and confidential employee assistance and counselling, occupational health
Grazing and Livestock Ranger (Animal Keeper Assistant) employer: Birmingham City Council
Birmingham City Council is an excellent employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to the conservation and enhancement of the city's natural environment as a Grazing and Livestock Ranger. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, generous holiday entitlement, and access to a comprehensive rewards scheme, the council fosters a supportive work culture that values professional growth and community engagement. Working in beautiful parks like Sheldon Country Park or Sutton Park, you will be at the forefront of biodiversity recovery while enjoying a fulfilling career in a vibrant urban setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Grazing and Livestock Ranger (Animal Keeper Assistant)
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like Birmingham City Council often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Grazing and Livestock Ranger (Animal Keeper Assistant)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Birmingham City Council does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Birmingham City Council
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Birmingham City Council will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Birmingham City Council.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Birmingham City Council.