Summary

This is an exciting opportunity to join the team at Orford Ness as our Area Ranger, managing a team of rangers and volunteers as you deliver and conservation work on one of the most highly designated conservation sites in the east of England.

You will inspire others through your love of the outdoors and ensure that all aspects of this site’s landscape, wildlife and infrastructure are sustainably managed and cared for. 

For this role you'll need a full UK driving license and a willingness to work towards a Boating qualification (PB2).

The advertised salary for this role will be in effect from 1st April.

This role is required to work with vulnerable groups including children and any offer of employment or volunteering is subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS check.

What it's like to work here

Wild, remote, and exposed, Orford Ness is ranked among the most important shingle features in the world, where rare and fragile wildlife thrive. Nationally and internationally recognised for its wildlife, it also has a fascinating history as a secret 20th century military testing facility.

The landscape is bordered by the Alde/Ore Estuary on one side and the North Sea on the other and is accessed only by boat. You’ll work with both the on site team and across the Suffolk & Essex Coast portfolio at a variety of different sites and habitats. 

What you'll be doing

You’ll be responsible for the day to day management of this countryside property, which includes equipment and infrastructure maintenance habitat management, ecological monitoring, visitor experience and site presentation. Working on what is effectively an island means you'll need a 'can-do' attitude and as part of a small team, you'll be adaptable and always willing to step in to help across the property.

You’ll also take responsibility for compliance, including the health and safety of your team, supporting your fellow rangers in undertaking engagement and conservation work, and contributing towards both project and property performance targets.

You’ll be responsible for helping to communicate our conservation work to a wide range of audiences, both new and existing, through events, guided walks and PR and press opportunities, as well as engaging with local communities.

You'll work as part of the property Duty Management team, including weekend and Bank Holiday working on a rota basis. Due to the location of the site you’ll need to be comfortable working on/near water and be happy to train towards & gain boating qualifications, if not already held.

Who we're looking for

We’d love to hear from you if you’re: 

• experienced in managing land, nature conservation and access for people, including running small projects and supervising contractors
• used to developing, writing and implementing programmes of work to achieve specific goals for conservation
• a strong team player, with a track record in leading and managing staff and volunteers
• practical and skilled in looking after a range of habitats and landscapes, with certificates in chainsaw use, tractor driving and towing trailers
• have good wildlife identification skills & Habitat and species surveying experience
• able to work safely, and take the lead on compliance – including writing risk assessments, and safety and environmental procedures
• happy to talk – with enthusiasm and commitment – to all kinds of people about the work you do and why it matters
• diploma/NVQ3 or higher in countryside/environmental conservation or equivalent role-relevant experience

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