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- Tasks: Protect and manage the beautiful landscape of Epsom and Walton Downs while engaging with the public.
- Company: Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, dedicated to community and environmental care.
- Benefits: Enjoy 24 days annual leave, gym membership, and a local government pension scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for training and career growth.
- Why this job: Work outdoors, connect with nature, and make a difference in your community.
- Qualifications: Must be reliable, confident, and able to handle challenging situations with strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Epsom & Ewell Borough Council is seeking a committed and practical Downskeeper to protect, maintain and manage the unique landscape of Epsom and Walton Downs, home of the Derby. This varied frontline role combines countryside management, public safety and byelaw enforcement. You will provide a uniformed presence across the Downs, carrying out patrols, conservation and maintenance work, and ensuring compliance with the Epsom and Walton Downs Regulation Act 1984.
Responsibilities
- Patrol the Downs, maintain grounds, manage habitat, clear litter and repair paths, fencing and signage.
- Use manual and powered tools safely and efficiently.
- Engage confidently with members of the public, including dog walkers, cyclists, horse riders and other stakeholders.
- Manage challenging situations calmly and professionally, supporting community safety in close cooperation with colleagues, the Police and partner organisations.
- Work outdoors in all weather conditions on a shift pattern that includes early starts, weekends and bank holidays.
Qualifications & Skills
- Ability to work safely and effectively in an outdoor environment, including walking over uneven ground and undertaking manual handling.
- Experience handling horses and dogs safely.
- Reliable, able to work independently and also as part of a team, with a calm, confident demeanour.
- Strong communication skills and a customer‑focused approach.
- Capacity to deal appropriately with challenging situations when they arise.
- Willingness to undertake further training, including horse handling.
- Full driving licence, essential for travelling around the site/estate and operating vehicles as part of the role.
Benefits
- 24 days annual leave (rising to 29 days after 5 years’ service).
- Subsidised gym membership and car parking.
- Entitlement to join the local government pension scheme.
Application Details
- Closing date: 08 March 2026
- Interviews/ assessments: 18 March 2026
Downskeeper in Epsom employer: Epsom & Ewell Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Epsom & Ewell Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Downskeeper in Epsom
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the area! Familiarise yourself with Epsom and Walton Downs before your interview. Understanding the landscape and its unique features will show your genuine interest in the role and help you connect with the interviewers.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be engaging with the public, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to handle conversations confidently. Role-play with a friend or family member to prepare for those tricky questions.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your teamwork spirit! Highlight any past experiences where you’ve worked as part of a team, especially in outdoor settings. This will reassure them that you can collaborate effectively with colleagues and partners.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Epsom & Ewell Borough Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Downskeeper in Epsom
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Outdoors: When writing your application, let us know how much you love working outdoors. Share any experiences you've had in countryside management or similar roles. This will help us see your commitment to maintaining the beautiful landscape of Epsom and Walton Downs.
Highlight Your Communication Skills: As a Downskeeper, you'll be engaging with the public regularly. Make sure to mention any relevant experience where you've successfully communicated with different groups, like dog walkers or cyclists. We want to see that you can handle challenging situations with confidence!
Be Clear About Your Experience: Detail your experience with manual and powered tools, as well as any background in handling horses and dogs. This is crucial for the role, so don’t hold back on sharing your skills and qualifications that make you a great fit for us.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember, the best way to apply is through our website. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right place. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Epsom & Ewell Borough Council
✨Know Your Landscape
Familiarise yourself with Epsom and Walton Downs before the interview. Understand its unique features, the types of wildlife present, and any recent conservation efforts. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you engage confidently with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience with manual and powered tools, as well as your ability to handle horses and dogs safely. Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your practical skills and how you've managed challenging situations effectively.
✨Show Your Customer Focus
Since this role involves engaging with the public, think of instances where you've provided excellent customer service. Highlight your strong communication skills and how you've maintained a calm demeanour when dealing with difficult situations or individuals.
✨Prepare for Outdoor Challenges
As the job requires working outdoors in various weather conditions, be prepared to discuss how you manage physical tasks and stay motivated during shifts. Share your strategies for maintaining safety and efficiency while working independently or as part of a team.