Countryside Officer/Ranger

The role of a countryside officer/ranger is to encourage visitors, to promote awareness and natural enjoyment of the countryside and to protect and conserve the natural environment for future enjoyment.

The work is varied and involves both practical and management tasks which may include:

• patrolling sites
• managing exhibitions and visitor centres
• ensuring footpaths, bridleways and other public areas are safe
• raising awareness of environmental conservation
• devising and implementing surveys to monitor wildlife
• recruiting and supervising staff and volunteers
• developing a business plan, marketing and controlling budgets
• preparing applications for funding or assessing planning applications
• organising activities and projects.

Countryside officers/rangers typically work standard full-time hours, although the hours may vary according to the season. There may also be weekend, evenings and bank holiday working. Work can be inside and outside in all weathers and there may be a lot of travelling between sites. A driving licence is required for this role.

Salaries may range from £18,000 to £30,000 or more a year.

Countryside officers/rangers need:

• to be able to work alone or as part of a team
• to be prepared to work outside in all conditions
• an understanding of the scientific and technical aspects of the natural world
• good communication skills, both written and oral
• good problem-solving skills
• to enjoy working outdoors and be interested in the natural world and conservations issues.

Jobs can be found with the local government, national agencies, local authorities and charitable trusts. This is a popular area of work and competition for paid jobs is intense. Opportunities for jobs can be found all over the country in urban and rural areas. The number of people working in this area is expected to grow.

There are no set academic requirements, but many employers expect a degree or HND. Candidates for jobs need to show evidence of practical work experience.

The Diploma in environmental and land-based studies would be an advantageous qualification to have achieved prior to further study or training.

It may also be possible to enter this career through an appropriate Apprenticeship programme.

Training is usually on the job but may also include in-house training courses.

With experience and relevant qualifications, it is possible to progress to management positions such as senior ranger/countryside officer or countryside manager.

Further details