Summary
As a Ranger, you're a champion of nature conservation and the great outdoors, and you'll play a crucial role in keeping the nation's beloved countryside and coast in good shape, for wildlife and for people.
Duration: This is a permanent role which offers realistic salary progression based on annual reviews.
Hours: 35.5 hours per week. You'll work some weekends and bank holidays, with limited on call requirements over the Christmas period – however, these will be arranged with you in advance.
What it's like to work here
Reporting to the Area Ranger in the East Ranger Team, this role is mainly based at Cushendun, on the east coast of Co. Antrim - our head office is at Hezlett House, Castlerock. You'll also be required to work across the whole of the North Coast sites when needed (for skills sharing or larger jobs) so you'll have the opportunity to broaden your experience by working alongside our colleagues in the North Coast West Ranger team.
Our sites range from woodland to coastal dunes, heathland to semi-natural grassland. We have ASSI, SAC, SPA and AONB designations across our site portfolio, as well as a Local Conservation Area in Cushendun village.
We experience some seasonal variation in types of jobs, with more habitat management in the winter, more public-facing activities in the spring and summer. The job is a physical one and you may be out in all types of weather conditions in isolated settings. Some lone working may be required, but we try to keep this to a minimum.
What you'll be doing
You'll be helping to protect and care for habitats, wildlife, buildings and machinery. You'll pass on your knowledge and enthusiasm to encourage others to love this area as much as you do. Whenever and wherever you come across people, you'll take the time to talk to them and answer their questions, rather than rushing away to the next task. You'll build relationships in the local community, proudly representing the Trust and letting people know about the work you and the team are doing.
You'll make sure that the conservation work and outdoor experiences on the land in your care are of the highest standard – this could involve activities such as mowing, strimming, scrub cutting, fencing, tractor driving, woodworking, etc., and there's scope to acquire new skills from our experienced team.
You'll complete compliance tasks relating to health & safety and risk management, and you may lead groups of volunteers or work with regular ranger/countryside volunteers. You will need to be able to work plan (with support from your line manager and other rangers), and to organise and maintain tools, vehicles and equipment associated with your responsibilities.
Please also read the full role profile, attached to this advert.
Who we're looking for
We'd love to hear from you if you're:
- practically experienced in conservation work, to protect and improve habitats and landscapes
- happy to talk to all kinds of people about the work you're doing, and why it matters
- hard-working and willing to learn
- able to work safely, using risk assessments and following guidelines
- experienced in managing land, access and conservation, and working outdoors
- able to use machinery and equipment, with relevant certificates
- a driver with a full UK driving 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.