We’re looking for an experienced countryside ranger who’s ready for a new challenge. You’ll be working at the forefront of nature conservation and land management, managing a dedicated team of rangers in a landscape that’s important for wildlife and loved by people.
You’ll be based at Poole Farm in Derriford, Plymouth; a hub for green recovery, and home to a successful urban Beaver project located within Derriford Community Park.
Salary: £28,992.60 per annum
Contract: Fixed term contract until 31-Mar-2029
Hours/ working pattern: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week
Interview date: 2nd September 2026
What it's like to work here:Plymouth Natural Grid project sits alongside the Green Communities project, both falling under the Urban Pioneer Partnership (UPP); a long-term collaboration between Plymouth City Council (PCC) and National Trust (NT) aimed at enhancing urban green spaces and implementing nature-based solutions.
Expanding our Nature Returns project works in partnership with Natural England, we’re continuing to enhance & monitor our Local Nature Reserves, County Wildlife Sites & green spaces in Plymouth and South Devon with a focus on nature-based solutions to climate change; offering opportunities to develop projects & get involved with our active local community alongside our People & Nature Thriving strategy.
What you'll be doing:Line managed by the Lead Ranger, you’ll be passionate about enhancing places for wildlife and people. You’ll confidently manage a team of Rangers planning and delivering our practical schedule including machine and hand tool use; completing tasks to a high standard.
The Ranger team are an important link between our local communities; you’ll be responsible for taking the lead developing relationships with Friends Of groups, including community building with a variety of external stakeholders.
You’ll input into the planning and coordination of regular hands-on volunteer groups; collaborating closely with partner projects and PCC Natural Environment Officers, you’ll ensure that activities are well-documented for project reporting and future development.
Monitoring and understanding our landscapes is essential to our work. In this role, you’ll carry out ecological surveys and assessments to monitor changes in biodiversity, species and habitat condition.
We value opportunities for personal and professional development, supported by a training budget to help you enhance your skills and thrive in your role.
Who we're looking forWe’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 and running programmes of work to achieve specific goals in conservation or access
- 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
- 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
- a driver, with a full UK licence.
The packageThe 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
- EV car lease scheme (for roles that meet the salary criteria)
- 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
Requirements :Compliance.Eligibility to Work in the UK
Fixed Term f/t (37.5 hrs pw to 31/03/29)
