Area Ranger

Working in some of the nation’s most stunning places and spaces, come rain or shine, your love of the outdoors will inspire others as you strive to ensure that landscapes are beautifully presented and continue to take our visitors’ breath away.

Due to the nature of the role, a full UK driving licence is required and there will be occasional weekend working.

Reporting to the Lead Ranger, you will be joining a passionate, committed and hardworking Countryside Team responsible for managing a number of highly biodiverse sites in South East Cumbria and around Morecambe bay. Sandscale Haws (Known locally as Roanhead) is one of the UK’s most important and diverse Sand dune systems and as such designated a SSSi, SAC, NNR and Ramsar site.

The 264ha reserve consists of a mosaic of Sand dune and other coastal habitats and is well known for the abundance and diversity of its dune slack habitats. Over 600 plant species, 6 of the 7 native UK amphibians, 350 different species of fungi and 25% of the UK’s population of natterjack toads are all found on site, making it one of the National Trusts most biodiverse sites. The area is also incredibly popular with local communities, as their beach. The exciting next phase of our plans will set up the reserve to be resilient to increasing visitor pressures and the challenges of climate change, whilst remaining a “green lung” of the local area.

As the Area Ranger you’ll manage a Ranger and a group of dedicated regular volunteers working across the reserve. Creating a varied work programme that delivers the aims of the site management plan and contributes to the wider aspirations of the portfolio. You’ll be the lead on the site and with support from the Lead Ranger you’ll build strong local relationships with graziers, contractors, partner organisations and local community to ensure collaborative working to deliver the management plan.

You’ll play a key role in ensuring excellent standards of presentation and property maintenance at Sandscale and working alongside the wider team you will undertake visitor engagement and practical conservation work on a regular basis. You’ll also be responsible for helping with excellent communication of our conservation work to a wide range of audiences, both new and existing, through events, guided walks and engagement with local communities.

You’ll be responsible for management and delivery of the extensive monitoring regime on site, fundamental to the management plan. You’ll also work alongside the Lead Ranger to develop the exciting next phase of management plan and new stewardship scheme to really leave your legacy.

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

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 

•be a strong team player, with experience of leading and line-managing teams of staff and/or volunteers 

•strong wildlife identification skills and evidence of applied practical experience in coastal habitats

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

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

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.