Area Ranger Countryside Stewardship

Summary

The voice of our landscapes, conservation champions and lovers of all things outdoors, you’ll help to keep the West Cornwall countryside and coast wonderful. Working in some of the nation’s most stunning places and spaces, come rain or shine, you will take the practical lead in delivering nature conservation for wildlife.

Please include a cover letter with your application What it's like to work here

West Cornwall is a portfolio of diverse properties in the far west of the county. From industrial mining sites to formal gardens, ancient estates to beautiful beaches and soaring granite cliffs it has a strong, individual identity. On the moors of West Penwith the signs of history are everywhere in an archaeologically rich landscape. Farming is important and we work with tenant farmers as our partners. We also care for a significant residential let estate and look after landscapes loved by many. We’re a busy and creative team and we work hard for places we care about. Whether it’s conservation work to our properties, or engaging people with special places, we’re proud to make a difference.

The countryside team is based close to the Count House at Botallack (near St Just), set in an impressive landscape of engine houses and other historic mining structures, against a stunning backdrop of cliffs and sea. 

What you'll be doing

For this Area Ranger role in the West Cornwall team you will be expected to lead on the implementation of multiple Countryside Stewardship schemes which span the area, all of which aim to improve our land for wildlife and do all we can to halt species decline. You will be expected to ensure that prescriptions and deadlines are met and good records are maintained. Work includes hay meadow management/improvement, bracken control, scrub management, dealing with invasive species, grazing infrastructure installation (such as gates, fencing, water bowsers/troughs) and grazing management. You will also play a key role in the management of our NT herd of Dartmoor ponies, involved in their welfare, checking and regular movements.

You will manage a small team of Rangers to carry out the work required and you will contribute to the wider team's work programme of engagement, presentation, access, safety and conservation work when required. You will ensure excellent standards are met and will build and maintain strong professional relationships with colleagues, contractors, tenants and neighbouring land managers.

You’ll also be responsible for helping to communicate our conservation work to a wide range of audiences, both new and existing, through events, guided walks and engagement with the local community.

Please also read the full role profile attached to this advert.

Who we're looking for To be fantastic in this role, we’d love you to have the following skills and experience:

• evidence of experience in land, access, and conservation management including delivery of small projects and supervision of contractors

• experience of developing and delivering work programs to meet conservation and access outcomes 

• practical experience and/or training in working with ponies for conservation grazing

• supporting your team in all aspects, with experience of leading and line-managing teams of staff and/or volunteers 

• practical skills applied across a broad range of habitats and estate management, preferably with certification in chainsaw use, tractor driving, and towing trailers

• able to work safely, leading on compliance including writing risk assessments as well as safety and environmental procedures 

• demonstrate a passion for nature and the outdoors - able to engage with visitors to help them understand the value of our work

•  a full UK driving license is essential

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)

• Tax-free childcare scheme

• Rental deposit loan scheme

• Season ticket loan

• 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

• Independent financial advice

Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.