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- Tasks: Assist in managing and enhancing Surrey's beautiful countryside estate.
- Company: Join Surrey County Council, dedicated to protecting and improving local environments.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26-31 days of holiday, lifestyle discounts, and a supportive Employee Assistance Programme.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team making a real impact on public access and conservation.
- Qualifications: Interest in countryside management, effective communication skills, and a valid driving licence required.
- Other info: Opportunity for growth as the council evolves with upcoming local government changes.
The predicted salary is between 28500 - 30000 £ per year.
The Countryside Estate Operations team, within the Resources directorate at Surrey County Council, is seeking to appoint a Countryside Estate Assistant.
All the relevant skills, qualifications and experience that a successful applicant will need are listed in the following description.
The annual salary for this position is £33,552 – £35,763 per annum. This is based on a 36-hour working week. You will be based out of our Merrow Complex in Guildford. Some weekend and evening work may be required this can be discussed at interview.
The team consists of 12 skilled and committed individuals that work closely together in a professional, positive and enjoyable working environment. Working to enhance public access and habitat conditions in some of the most beautiful parts of Surrey\’s countryside. The team is continually evolving and expanding its remit and capabilities. We are looking for an individual with a range of countryside management skills that would complement and enhance our team and its capabilities.
Rewards and Benefits
26 days\’ holiday, rising to 28 days after 2 years\’ service and 31 days after 5 years\’ service
Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave
An extensive Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing
Up to 5 days of carer\’s leave per year
Paternity, adoption and dependants leave
A generous local government salary related pension
Lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, shopping and many more
2 paid volunteering days per year
Learning and development hub where you can access a wealth of resourcesAbout the role
The aim of the Countryside Estate Operations Team is to protect, maintain and improve our 10,000-acre countryside estate. We work with other teams to support delivery of wider environmental projects and objectives. We undertake a range of management activities including public access and visitor management, conservation projects and infrastructure projects. We work with partners and tenants to ensure our land is safe, easily accessible for visitors and managed carefully to protect our valuable natural assets.
As a Countryside Estate Assistant, you will assist with implementing the County Council\’s statutory and priority countryside management duties and responsibilities on our countryside estate.
You will be an enthusiastic self-starter, often working independently on site, inspecting issues and reports. You will undertake a range of practical maintenance tasks and organize work with volunteers, supporting groups and individuals as necessary to ensure their personal safety and satisfaction. Tasks you will undertake include:
Maintaining access and habitat management through vegetation clearance and tree works.
Leading volunteer groups to maintain and enhance our sites.
Proactive inspections to identify safety concerns or issues that could affect public access or enjoyment of our countryside.
Prevent damage and encroachment by maintaining a visual presence on site and through intervention.
You will have good IT and communication skills and be able to form excellent relationships with partner organizations, such as other councils, landowners, contractors, voluntary groups and community groups.Shortlisting criteria
To be shortlisted for interview for this position, your application will clearly evidence:
An interest and understanding of countryside management issues and of practical maintenance techniques.
Ability to communicate effectively with a range of internal and external teams/bodies.
Ability to drive and a valid driving license as well as the willingness to use a work vehicle as provided. You must be prepared to drive a variety of vehicles, including 4x4s and tractors, and be competent to tow a trailer.
Ability to work outdoors in all weather and sometimes in difficult terrain.
Experience and qualifications to operate a tractor, chainsaw, flail mower, wood chipper, brushcutter, and other tools and machinery would be an advantage.The job advert closes at 23:59 on 21st September 2025 with interviews to follow soon after.
Local Government Reorganisation
Surrey County Council is preparing for Local Government Reorganisation which will allow us to implement the Government led policy of devolution, which is all about giving more powers to local areas.
Currently, Surrey has a two-tier council system, with 11 district and borough councils and a county council, all responsible for different services. All these councils will be reorganised into a smaller number of new unitary councils which will come into effect in April 2027. At this point, this role will be transferred, with all existing terms and conditions intact into one of the new unitary councils.
Join our dynamic team and shape the future of local government. Make a lasting impact with innovative solutions and improved services for our community. Help us build a brighter future for our residents!
Our Commitment
Surrey County Council is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. A guaranteed interview will be offered to all disabled applicants where:
The candidate has evidenced the minimum criteria for the role through their application
The candidate has chosen to share that they have a disability on the application form Our application form and onboarding process will provide an opportunity to request any reasonable adjustments for the interview and/or the role. We want to be an inclusive and diverse employer reflecting the community we serve and particularly welcome applications from all underrepresented groups
Countryside Estate Assistant employer: Surrey County Council
Contact Detail:
Surrey County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Countryside Estate Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Surrey's countryside management issues. Understanding local environmental projects and the specific challenges faced in maintaining public access will show your genuine interest and commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Surrey County Council, especially those in the Countryside Estate Operations team. They can provide valuable insights into the team culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your practical experience with tools and machinery relevant to countryside management. Highlight any specific instances where you've successfully led volunteer groups or managed outdoor projects, as this will demonstrate your hands-on skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills by preparing examples of how you've effectively collaborated with various stakeholders in previous roles. This could include working with community groups, contractors, or other councils, which is crucial for this position.
We think you need these skills to ace Countryside Estate Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and requirements of the Countryside Estate Assistant position. Highlight key skills and experiences that align with the role.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your relevant countryside management skills and experiences. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively and work independently in outdoor settings.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for countryside management and your understanding of the issues involved. Mention how your skills can contribute to the team’s goals and the overall mission of Surrey County Council.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have experience operating machinery or tools mentioned in the job description, be sure to include this in your application. Clearly state any relevant qualifications or certifications that support your candidacy.
How to prepare for a job interview at Surrey County Council
✨Show Your Passion for Countryside Management
Make sure to express your genuine interest in countryside management during the interview. Discuss any relevant experiences or projects you've been involved in that demonstrate your commitment to preserving and enhancing natural environments.
✨Demonstrate Practical Skills
Be prepared to talk about your hands-on experience with tools and machinery mentioned in the job description, such as tractors and chainsaws. If possible, provide examples of how you've successfully used these skills in previous roles or volunteer work.
✨Highlight Communication Abilities
Since the role involves working with various teams and community groups, emphasise your communication skills. Share examples of how you've effectively collaborated with others, resolved conflicts, or led volunteer groups in past experiences.
✨Prepare for Outdoor Work Scenarios
Expect questions about your ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and terrains. Be ready to discuss how you handle challenging situations, such as adverse weather or difficult terrain, while ensuring safety and maintaining a positive attitude.
