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- Tasks: Assist in managing the Basingstoke Canal through practical maintenance and public engagement.
- Company: Join Hampshire County Council, a top-performing local authority known for its supportive work culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, and opportunities for personal development.
- Why this job: Work outdoors, develop unique skills, and contribute to preserving a historic waterway.
- Qualifications: Basic conservation skills, good communication, and a valid UK driving licence required.
- Other info: Position involves weekend work and engaging with volunteers and the public.
The predicted salary is between 24405 - 25430 £ per year.
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Assistant Waterway Ranger
Job Reference: HCC621731
Salary Range: £24,405 – £25,430 per annum plus allowances
Work Location: The Basingstoke Canal Centre, Mytchett
Hours per week: 37
Contract Type: Temporary (12 months)
Closing Date: 30 July 2025
Interview Date: w/c 18 August & w/c 25 August 2025
Are you passionate about our inland waterways and the outdoors? We are looking for a self-starter with good communication skills to join our small team managing the Basingstoke Canal.
The Role:
The 32-mile-long Basingstoke Canal is a largely tree lined and tranquil navigable waterway providing an important recreational resource both on the towpath and on the water. Crossing through Hampshire and Surrey, it is a designated SSSI. With 29 Locks and numerous bridges, structures and embankments, and a long-standing water supply problem the 230-year-old canal demands constant attention.
The role will require you to assist with the delivery of an agreed programme of practical, ecological, recreational, safety, administrative and business-related works in order to provide a high-quality management of the Basingstoke Canal and appropriate service to the public.
What you’ll do:
The Assistant Waterway Ranger will assist the Ranger team in all manner of practical maintenance tasks and will take a lead in managing lock use. This is an opportunity to develop and widen your range of site management and practical skills on a distinctly ‘different’ countryside and heritage site renowned for its Odonata and aquatic plants. You will need to be a good communicator as the post holder will regularly work with volunteers and engage with the public as the face of the organisation.
The post is based at the Basingstoke Canal Centre at Mytchett, near Camberley, Surrey but the post holder will be outdoors on the canal for a significant proportion of the time. The post holder will be required to work weekends and Bank Holidays on a rota basis and occasionally assist the Ranger teams out of hours.
What we’re looking for:
- Ability to demonstrate basic practical skills in conservation, practical estates management and/or countryside recreation. Note this can be gained either through employment, voluntary work or during academic qualifications such as a certificate, diploma or degree in a relevant countryside, conservation, recreation, estates or waterways related subject
- Valid clean UK Driving Licence
- You must be able to demonstrate a good level of physical fitness including prolonged periods of manual handling and being able to swim 50m
- Excellent communication skills both verbal and written
- Ability to be self-starting taking responsibility for actions and work as part of a team
- You are a confident user of common IT packages including Word and Excel – knowledge and use of GIS packages or CAMS an advantage
Hampshire County Council is recognised nationally as one of the highest performing local authorities in the UK. A modern, forward-looking local authority, it offers a pleasant, supportive, and collaborative working environment.
Hampshire County Council is also a flexible employer interested in making the most of your skills and offers a great work life balance. We invest in you through our internal development programmes and training and offer a competitive salary and benefits package .
Contact Details for an Informal Discussion:
Tarun Ingvorsen, Canal Operations Manager on 01252 370073 or James Taylor, Strategic Manager – Basingstoke Canal on 0370 779 5594
Hampshire County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment.
In order to combat discrimination, no unnecessary conditions or requirements will be applied which could have a disproportionately adverse effect on any one group. All sections of the population will have equal access to jobs. No applicant or employee will receive less favourable treatment because of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership and pregnancy or maternity, unless a Genuine Occupational Requirement (GOR) applies.
We are a Disability Confident Employer – committed to ensuring that our recruitment and selection process is inclusive and accessible.
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Assistant Waterway Ranger employer: Hampshire County Council
Contact Detail:
Hampshire County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Waterway Ranger
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Basingstoke Canal and its unique features. Understanding the ecological and recreational aspects of the canal will help you engage more effectively with the public and demonstrate your passion for the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain some hands-on experience in conservation or countryside management, even if it's through volunteering. This practical knowledge will not only enhance your skills but also show your commitment to the role when discussing your background with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your communication skills by engaging with local community groups or volunteering organisations. Being able to effectively communicate with volunteers and the public is crucial for this position, so practice makes perfect!
✨Tip Number 4
Make sure you are physically prepared for the demands of the job. Engage in activities that build your fitness and stamina, as the role involves manual handling and outdoor work. Being fit will not only help you perform better but also demonstrate your readiness for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Waterway Ranger
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Assistant Waterway Ranger position. Highlight key skills such as practical conservation skills, communication abilities, and teamwork.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect relevant experience in conservation, estates management, or countryside recreation. Include any voluntary work or academic qualifications that demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for inland waterways and the outdoors. Mention specific experiences that align with the job's requirements, such as working with volunteers or managing outdoor projects.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hampshire County Council
✨Show Your Passion for the Outdoors
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for inland waterways and outdoor activities during the interview. Share any personal experiences or projects that highlight your love for nature and conservation.
✨Demonstrate Practical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your practical skills in conservation and countryside management. Provide examples from previous jobs, volunteer work, or academic projects that showcase your hands-on experience.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since the role involves engaging with the public and working with volunteers, practice clear and confident communication. Think of scenarios where you successfully interacted with others and be ready to share those stories.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Self-Starter Qualities
The Assistant Waterway Ranger position requires both teamwork and the ability to take initiative. Prepare examples that illustrate how you've worked well in a team and instances where you've taken responsibility for your own tasks.
