At a Glance
- Tasks: Help maintain beautiful parks and engage with the community in conservation efforts.
- Company: Join West Suffolk Council, a leader in climate action and community engagement.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, generous pension, and unique employee discounts.
- Other info: Flexible hours and opportunities for personal growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in preserving nature while working outdoors.
- 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. 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 and is committed to working towards net zero emissions by 2039.
Park Ranger employer: Suffolk County Council
West Suffolk Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. As a Park Ranger at Nowton Park, you will enjoy generous benefits including 25 days of holiday, a robust pension scheme, and access to unique employee discounts, all while contributing to the preservation of our beautiful green spaces in Bury St Edmunds. Join a team that values continuous learning and is committed to making a positive impact on the environment and community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Park Ranger
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the park! Familiarise yourself with Nowton Park and its features. 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 at West Suffolk Council. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! Be ready to discuss your experience with the public and any conservation work you've done. Use specific examples to highlight your communication and problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at West Suffolk Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Park Ranger
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Nature:When writing your application, let your love for parks and green spaces shine through! We want to see your enthusiasm for conservation and how you can contribute to maintaining the beauty of Nowton Park.
Highlight Your People Skills:As a Park Ranger, you'll be interacting with the public regularly. Make sure to mention any previous experience you have in customer service or working with volunteers. We value effective communication and a friendly approach!
Be Specific About Your Experience:Don’t just list your past jobs; explain how they relate to this role. If you've worked with handheld mechanical equipment or have knowledge of local flora and fauna, give us the details! We love seeing relevant experience.
Follow the Application Process:Remember, we can't accept CVs, so make sure you apply through our website. Take your time to fill out the application form thoroughly, as this is your chance to impress us and show why you're the perfect fit for the Park Ranger role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk County Council
✨Know Your Green Spaces
Familiarise yourself with Nowton Park and its features. Understand the flora, fauna, and any ongoing conservation projects. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you answer questions about how you would engage with the public and promote the park.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
As a Park Ranger, you'll be interacting with the public regularly. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated or resolved issues in previous roles. Highlight your ability to be helpful and tactful, as these qualities are essential for this position.
✨Demonstrate Your Enthusiasm
Bring your passion for nature and community engagement to the forefront during the interview. Share stories that reflect your enthusiasm for working outdoors and your commitment to maintaining green spaces. This will resonate well with the council's values.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about handling equipment and enforcing regulations. Brush up on your knowledge of handheld mechanical tools and be ready to discuss how you would ensure safety and compliance in the park. This shows you're prepared for the practical aspects of the job.
