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- Tasks: Lead conservation projects and manage volunteers in the stunning Petworth Park.
- Company: Join the National Trust, dedicated to preserving nature and heritage for everyone.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, a substantial pension, and discounts on gym memberships and cinema tickets.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on wildlife and engage with the community in a beautiful landscape.
- Qualifications: Experience in land management, conservation, and team leadership is essential.
- Other info: This is a project-funded role for 9 years, offering a unique opportunity to shape Petworth Park.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity to join the Petworth Gardens and Outdoors Team as Area Ranger, the first ever dedicated position for Petworth Park. Considered the best preserved example of a Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown designed landscape, 700 acres in size, home to the largest collection of veteran trees in London and the South East, 16 of the 18 UK bat species, the largest imparked Fallow deer herd in the country with world renowned genetics; Petworth is a very special place.
A Project funded role for the next 9 years, the position will be working to fulfil the aims of the current Countryside Stewardship Scheme, liaising with key stakeholders, addressing water quality issues, managing invasive species, and engaging visitors to the park this work and the wider cause of with the National Trust. This is a full-time role with flexibility required for some evening and weekend working.
What it's like to work here: You'll be joining a small capable team with a large remit working as part of the wider Petworth House and Park property composed of many experienced and engaged teams. Petworth is a place of change, it is a Treasure House, with an ever-improving Pleasure Ground Garden, and a parkland with great capabilities for improvement for our wildlife and heritage assets. Every piece of ground or water within Petworth Park is priority habitat Wood pasture/parkland, dry acid grassland, and watercourses, it is a grade I listed landscape with extensive archaeology from its 1000 year history.
What you'll be doing: You’ll recruit and manage a team of volunteers and lead on the project works under the Countryside Stewardship agreement, as well as operational works focussed on the delivery of great conservation, access, and engagement. You'll work closely with the Gardens and Outdoors Manager to undertake this work and act as a key contact with our local community, partners, and collaborators. Working collaboratively with the estate Deer Keepers and Stockmen on site management projects particularly around grazing. With an eye for detail, and a working knowledge of compliance and risk management you'll ensure that we fulfil our mandatory obligations across this area and pride yourself on high standards of presentation, practical work delivery and contractor management. Recognising how your role contributes to delivery of a great visitor experience, you'll identify opportunities to inspire and involve local and wider audiences, offering opportunities to get involved and ultimately enabling everyone to feel welcome.
Who we're looking for: We’d love to hear from you if you’re:
- Experienced in managing land, nature conservation and access for people, including running small projects and supervising contractors.
- Used to developing and running programmes of work to achieve specific goals in conservation or access.
- A strong team player, with a track record in leading and managing staff and volunteers.
- Practical and skilled in looking after a range of habitats and landscapes, with certificates in chainsaw use, tractor driving and towing trailers.
- Able to work safely, and take the lead on compliance – including writing risk assessments, and safety and environmental procedures.
- Happy to talk – with enthusiasm and commitment – to all kinds of people about the work you do and why it matters.
- A driver, with a full UK licence.
The package: The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.
- Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary.
- Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18).
- Rental deposit loan scheme.
- Season ticket loan.
- EV car lease scheme.
- Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts.
- Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.
- Flexible working whenever possible.
- Employee assistance programme.
- Free parking at most Trust places.
Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.
Area Ranger employer: National Trust
Contact Detail:
National Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Area Ranger
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific conservation projects and initiatives currently underway at Petworth Park. Understanding the local context and challenges will help you demonstrate your commitment and knowledge during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the conservation and land management sectors. Attend local events or workshops related to nature conservation, as this can provide valuable connections and insights that may give you an edge in your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills by volunteering for roles that involve managing teams or projects. Highlighting your experience in leading volunteers or staff will be crucial, as the role requires strong team management capabilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your practical skills in habitat management and compliance. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed similar environments, including any relevant certifications you hold, such as chainsaw use or tractor driving.
We think you need these skills to ace Area Ranger
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in land management, nature conservation, and project supervision. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills in managing teams and working with volunteers.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for conservation and the outdoors. Mention how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the Area Ranger role and why you are excited about working at Petworth Park.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have certifications in chainsaw use, tractor driving, or other relevant skills, be sure to mention these in your application. This will show that you meet the practical requirements of the job.
Show Enthusiasm for Community Engagement: Demonstrate your ability to engage with diverse audiences in your application. Share any previous experiences where you successfully involved the community in conservation efforts or similar projects.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Trust
✨Know Your Landscape
Familiarise yourself with Petworth Park and its unique features, such as the veteran trees and bat species. Being able to discuss specific aspects of the park will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Demonstrate Team Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams or volunteers in the past. Highlight your ability to inspire and engage others, as this is crucial for the Area Ranger position.
✨Showcase Practical Skills
Be ready to discuss your practical experience with land management and conservation. Mention any relevant certifications, like chainsaw use or tractor driving, to demonstrate your hands-on capabilities.
✨Engage with Enthusiasm
Practice articulating your passion for conservation and community engagement. The interviewers will appreciate your enthusiasm for the role and your commitment to making a positive impact on visitors and the environment.
