At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with the community while caring for beautiful parks and open spaces.
- Company: Join West Suffolk Council, a leader in climate action and community service.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, generous pension, and unique employee discounts.
- Other info: Flexible hours, continuous learning culture, and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in preserving nature and enhancing public spaces.
- Qualifications: Experience with the public and a passion for green spaces are essential.
The predicted salary is between 15803 - 15803 € per year.
West Suffolk Council is looking to recruit a Park Ranger for Nowton Park. Based at Nowton Park in Bury St Edmunds, you will be working within the existing Ranger Service and will be involved in facilitating the use of parks and open spaces within West Suffolk.
Duties will include:
- working with volunteers on conservation, maintenance and landscaping tasks
- patrolling parks and public open spaces
- meeting and advising the public in the use of the facilities
- enforcing regulations
- promoting a customer-oriented approach
- assisting in the running of events and activities
- maintaining the protection and security of all the facilities and equipment within the parks, including flora and fauna and ancient monuments
What you will need:
You will be keen to be involved in the care of green spaces and facilities and have previous experience of working with the public. Personal qualities such as effective communication skills, the ability to deal with the public in a helpful and tactful manner, an enthusiastic approach, numeracy and literacy are essential. Knowledge of the local area and the ability to use handheld mechanical equipment is desirable. A full driving licence is required.
Benefits:
- holiday entitlement of 25 days, increasing to 29 days after 5 years (pro rata if part time) plus bank holidays (with an option to buy up to 10 extra days each year subject to approval)
- generous pension scheme – contribute between 5.5% and 6.8% (depending on your salary) and the council will contribute 16.4%
- life assurance – a payment of three times your annual salary
- access to a unique employee benefits package which includes discounts and cashback on supermarkets, high street shops, holidays, mobile phones, electrical goods, savings and loan schemes and many other products and services
- salary sacrifice benefits including Cycle to Work scheme, Tusker Leased Car Scheme and SmartTech (buy the latest tech products interest free and repay through your monthly salary)
- rail and bus staff discounts
- a range of Health and Wellbeing Initiatives including an employee assistance programme
- discounted membership at Abbeycroft Leisure centres
- A culture of learning inspiring staff to focus on continuous learning
- modern office accommodation
To find out more, for an informal discussion and further information please email Liam Judd, Senior Ranger Nowton Park, at Liam.Judd@westsuffolk.gov.uk or call 07790 973103 (if Liam is unable to answer a phone call, please leave a message with your telephone number). Please note, we are unable to accept CVs, please follow the online application process to apply.
Closing date: 11.55 pm, 15 June 2026.
West Suffolk Council has been rated in the top 10 district councils for climate action (Climate Scorecards 2023) and as a member of UK100 has demonstrated its commitment to a rapid transition to Net Zero with Clean Air in our communities. The council has declared a climate and biodiversity emergency and is committed to working towards net zero emissions by 2039.
Park Ranger in Bury St Edmunds employer: Suffolk County Council
West Suffolk Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. As a Park Ranger at Nowton Park, you will enjoy a generous benefits package, including 25 days of holiday, a robust pension scheme, and access to various health and wellbeing initiatives, all while contributing to the preservation of our beautiful green spaces in the heart of Bury St Edmunds.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Park Ranger in Bury St Edmunds
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the park and its community! Spend some time at Nowton Park, chat with visitors, and understand what makes it special. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current rangers or volunteers through social media or local events. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you when you apply.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your communication skills. Practice answering questions about how you'd handle public interactions and conservation tasks. We want to see your enthusiasm shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the only way to get your application in. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and highlight your relevant experience in working with the public and caring for green spaces.
We think you need these skills to ace Park Ranger in Bury St Edmunds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, give the job description a good read. It’s packed with info about what we’re looking for in a Park Ranger, so make sure you understand the key responsibilities and requirements.
Tailor Your Application:When you’re writing your application, don’t just send a generic one. Use specific examples from your experience that match the skills and qualities we’re after, like effective communication and working with the public.
Show Your Passion for Nature:We want to see your enthusiasm for parks and green spaces! Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your love for nature and conservation work. It’ll help us see how you fit into our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, we can’t accept CVs, so make sure you apply through our website. It’s super easy, and you’ll find all the info you need to complete your application there. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk County Council
✨Know Your Green Spaces
Familiarise yourself with Nowton Park and its features. Research the flora, fauna, and any historical monuments in the area. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you answer questions about conservation and maintenance effectively.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
As a Park Ranger, you'll be interacting with the public regularly. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated with people in previous roles. Highlight your ability to handle queries tactfully and promote a customer-oriented approach.
✨Demonstrate Your Enthusiasm
Bring your passion for nature and community service to the interview. Share personal stories or experiences that reflect your commitment to caring for green spaces and working with volunteers. Enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about using handheld mechanical equipment and enforcing park regulations. Brush up on your knowledge of local wildlife and conservation practices. Being well-prepared for these topics will demonstrate your readiness for the role.
