At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with stakeholders and lead conservation efforts for vital peatland habitats.
- Company: Join the Mourne Heritage Trust, a leader in environmental conservation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension contributions, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with opportunities for growth and learning.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in restoring and protecting our natural environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in an environmental subject and relevant experience required.
The predicted salary is between 26500 - 29000 £ per year.
The Peatland Conservation Ranger should be educated to Level 6 - (Degree) in an environmental related subject and have experience of working with contractors, landowners, farmers/graziers and other key stakeholders. Experience working as part of a project team. Knowledge of GIS-based field survey techniques and proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Excel.
Salary: NJC Pts 12-15; £Contributory pension with employers pension contribution 5% per annum. Appointment will be made at the first point of the scale.
Hours: Full-time hours 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Will require some weekend and evening work.
Location: Based at Mourne Heritage Trust (MHT) offices, 19 Causeway Road, Newcastle with hot desk access at other locations, and hybrid working by agreement. Occasional travel throughout the UK and Ireland will be required.
Contract: Fixed Term Contract to 31st March 2029, unless funding becomes available. This post is subject to a 6-month probationary period.
Leave: 25 days per annum plus 12 days statutory holidays.
Reporting to: Peat + Mourne & Slieve Gullion Projects Coordinator.
Transport: Access to a suitable form of transport to travel to MHT office locations will be required along with a full clean driving license. Flexi-time system and onsite free parking and a basic health cash plan, provided by the Hospital Saturday Fund.
Requirement: Prospective candidates must have the legal right to work in the UK. Basic Access NI check will be completed prior to appointment.
Project Overview: The overall PEAT+ project is structured into three key work packages: Conservation Planning & Design, Peatland Restoration, and Capacity Building & Community Engagement. Through these efforts, PEAT+ will leave a legacy, by restoring vital habitats and fostering long-term environmental and community benefits. Partners in the project include Ulster Wildlife, Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council, Newry, Mourne & Down District Council (NMDCC), Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark, Mourne Heritage Trust, Atlantic Technology University, Letterkenny, Crichton Carbon Centre, RT. Mourne Heritage Trust and Newry Mourne and Down District Council are collaborating to deliver work focused on the Eastern Mournes and Slieve Gullion.
Job Purpose: The Peatlands Conservation Ranger will lead on all stakeholder engagement; including landowners, graziers, contractors and other key partners. Essentially you will be the eyes and ears across all projects on the ground. You will collect data from monitoring locations and provide photographic or drone footage as required and provide input into the education & awareness raising with MHT/NMDDC and across Peat+ project partners. You will positively contribute to the overall NI PEAT+ programme and work closely with the AONB Geopark Peatlands Officer, to ensure the smooth delivery of projects across both SAC sites.
As Peatlands Conservation Ranger you will participate in the NI Peatland Collaborative Network, ensuring that practical peatland restoration & monitoring techniques at Slieve Gullion and Eastern Mournes are consistent with best practice, and contribute to the recovery networks overall project objectives. You will support the PEAT+ team in monitoring compliance with all relevant legislative requirements such as Construction Design Management (CDM) and Habitat Impact Assessment (HIA). You will assist fellow MHT colleagues in relation to the facilitation of the Eastern Mournes SAC, Conservation Management Plan development and implementation, providing technical guidance and support the Forever Mournes Partnership in technical conservation advice on projects where appropriate.
Assist with fieldwork for the collection of scientific monitoring data, including peat depths, water table depths, and species-specific surveys for peatland sites. Assist the Senior Peatlands Technical Officer to carry out risk assessments including CDM assessments for on-ground works to ensure compliance with health and safety requirements. Assist in the engagement and liaison with landowners to secure participation in restoration management planning processes and in the implementation of restoration actions. Participate in project promotional and public engagement activities as required.
General requirements: Actively contribute to the MHT and NMDDC teams and promote the sharing of knowledge with Peat+ programme partners and across the wider heritage sector. Comply with MHT policies and practices at all times and observe the policies and practices of other project partners. Ensure that contact with others is of a style and quality consistent with Mourne Heritage Trusts ethos.
At least level 6 (degree), in a relevant subject e.g. such as biology, ecology, geography, land management, hydrology or other related subject and at least 1 years cumulative relevant full-time experience (including placement and volunteer experience) OR 4 years relevant full-time (or equivalent part-time experience) in an environmental/ecology/land management role. Experience of carrying out conservation field work and data collection. Knowledge of implementing and compliance with health and safety policies and procedures. Ability to communicate effectively, both written and verbally effective presentation, report writing and the ability to converse with a diverse range of people at all levels. High level of computer literacy with a good knowledge of Microsoft Office software. Current Driving License and access to transport for business purposes to allow the post holder to carry out the full requirements of the role. Two years cumulative, relevant full-time experience (including student placement and volunteer experience). Experience in the use of GIS software for surveying and data analysis. Demonstrable experience of engaging with contractors, farmers and landowners. Training and/or experience of CDM for Peatland Management and restoration. Experience of working in remote or upland environments.
How to Apply: Complete and submit the online application in the required format by the deadline. You will also be asked to submit a separate equality monitoring form. The deadline for submission (online) is Monday 15th June 2026 by 12 noon.
Equality Monitoring and Criminal Convictions Disclosure: Along with the application form, you will be asked to complete and return the Equal Opportunities Monitoring and Criminal Convictions Disclosure Form in a separate document. Equal Opportunities Mourne Heritage Trust is an equal opportunities employer, and all applications for employment are considered strictly on the basis of merit. Mourne Heritage Trust is committed to promoting equality of opportunity for people with disabilities. We guarantee an interview to a person who states they have or have had a disability and who meets the minimum essential criteria for the post. Applicants with a disability who meet the minimum essential eligibility criteria for the role they have applied for, are offered an interview. Details of any disability are only used for these purposes and do not form any part of the selection process. If you have indicated on your application that you have a disability, are successful in the selection process and are being considered for appointment, you may be asked to outline any reasonable adjustments you consider necessary in order for you to take up an appointment.
Peatlands Conservation Ranger JBLE1_NI in Newcastle employer: Mourne Heritage Trust
Mourne Heritage Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative work culture that prioritises environmental conservation and community engagement. With opportunities for professional growth through hands-on experience in peatland restoration and stakeholder engagement, employees benefit from a supportive environment that values their contributions. Located in the scenic Mourne region, the Trust provides flexible working arrangements, competitive benefits, and a commitment to equality, making it an ideal place for those passionate about making a meaningful impact in the field of conservation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Peatlands Conservation Ranger JBLE1_NI in Newcastle
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Research the Mourne Heritage Trust and their projects. When you show up for interviews or networking events, drop some knowledge about their work. It’ll show you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute.
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t just sit back and wait for job openings. Reach out to people in the industry, especially those involved in peatland conservation. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! If you’ve got experience with GIS or data collection, bring it up in conversations. Maybe even prepare a mini portfolio of your work to share during interviews. It’s all about making a memorable impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Don’t miss out on that chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Peatlands Conservation Ranger JBLE1_NI in Newcastle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Make sure you highlight your relevant qualifications and experience in environmental subjects. We want to see how your background fits with the Peatlands Conservation Ranger role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your skills!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to match the job description. Mention specific experiences that relate to working with stakeholders and using GIS techniques – it’ll make you stand out!
Show Your Passion:We love seeing candidates who are genuinely passionate about peatland conservation. Share any personal projects or volunteer work that demonstrates your commitment to the environment. It’s all about showing us why you care!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our website by the deadline. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mourne Heritage Trust
✨Know Your Peatlands
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of peatland ecosystems and conservation practices. Familiarise yourself with the PEAT+ project and its objectives, as well as the specific challenges faced in the Mourne Heritage Trust area. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Engage Stakeholders
Since the role involves working with landowners, contractors, and other stakeholders, prepare examples of how you've successfully engaged with diverse groups in the past. Think about your communication style and be ready to discuss how you can foster collaboration and build relationships.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with GIS software and data collection techniques. Bring examples of your previous work or projects where you used these skills effectively. Highlight your proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel, as it’s crucial for data analysis in this role.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
The Peatlands Conservation Ranger will be part of a project team, so it's important to convey your ability to work collaboratively. Share experiences where you contributed to a team effort, particularly in environmental projects, and emphasise your commitment to sharing knowledge and supporting colleagues.