Overview
As a Countryside Ranger, you will support volunteer and education activities within Leeds Parks and Green Spaces, working with communities, Leeds City Council and funders to activate spaces and deliver the Parks and Green Spaces Strategy.
Responsibilities
* Conduct volunteer engagement opportunities whilst raising awareness and benefits of spending time in green spaces.
* Develop and promote the involvement of local groups in the care and enhancement of Leeds green spaces.
* Work collaboratively with the community, Leeds City Council and funders to activate spaces.
* Assist in the management, co-ordination and delivery of volunteer and education activities in support of the Parks and Green Spaces Strategy.
* Assist in the design and development of comprehensive management plans for Parks and Green Spaces sites.
* Assist in the management and implementation of ranger and visitor services in the parks and green spaces of Leeds.
* Assist in the development, promotion and co-ordination of local groups and volunteers in the care and enhancement of the parks, green spaces and broader countryside of Leeds.
* Work with managers and other staff to achieve a co-ordinated visitor experience.
* Liaise with schools and interest groups to utilise the educational resources of the area.
* Ensure effective consultation mechanisms to develop the work of the Climate, Energy and Green Spaces team.
* Compile and provide performance information that is accurate and timely as requested.
* Represent the service at internal and external meetings.
* Proven ability to liaise successfully with colleagues, volunteers, members of the public, business partners and community groups.
* Comply with Leeds City Council policies and procedures (e.g., child protection, health, safety and security, confidentiality, data protection) and report concerns as appropriate.
* Promote equality for all in an anti-discriminatory manner and uphold the values and equality and diversity policies of Leeds City Council.
* Recognise and challenge incidents of racism, bullying, harassment or abuse of equal opportunities, ensuring compliance with policies and procedures.
* Work within the Council’s flexibility protocol and adapt to changes to support other services as required.
* Participate in appraisal, training and development to maintain up-to-date knowledge and skills.
* Improve practice through observation, evaluation, discussion with colleagues and CPD.
* Collaborate with colleagues, knowing when to seek help and advice.
* Attend relevant meetings and training to contribute to the ethos, work and aims of the service.
* Understand and embody Leeds City Council Values and Behaviours and codes of conduct.
* Commit to continuous improvement and contribute towards the Best City Ambition of Health & Wellbeing, Inclusive Growth and Zero Carbon.
* Understand and observe Council policies and procedures; perform duties with regard to Health, Safety and Wellbeing.
* Be willing to participate in appraisal, training and development to maintain up-to-date knowledge and skills.
* Be flexible and adaptable to change to assist other services as required, commensurate with grade.
* Promote equality, challenge discrimination and report concerns using appropriate channels.
* Identify and work within the Council’s flexibility protocol.
* Enthusiasm to work with communities to activate spaces and increase wildlife and biodiversity awareness.
* Communicate effectively, present information clearly and maintain accurate records.
* Demonstrate experience in environmental learning, countryside management or nature conservation.
* Possess strong organisational and time management skills and a willingness to work across Leeds sites, including remote locations.
* Hold a full driving licence to enable independent travel to remote locations.
Qualifications and Experience
* Experience liaising with volunteers, the public, community groups, council officers and elected members.
* Ability to organise and deliver training on conservation techniques and environmental educational activities for school groups.
* Ability to work independently and without direct supervision.
* Broad knowledge of fauna and flora; knowledge of conservation techniques for wetlands, grasslands and woodlands; experience in urban countryside management and conservation.
* Experience recruiting and retaining volunteers from diverse backgrounds.
* Experience organising events for the public and for community groups; delivering guided walks and presentations.
* Minimum 2 years of relevant work experience; experience with inclusive and diverse engagement.
* Experience of site management for recreation and nature conservation; minor maintenance, surveys and fieldwork.
* Experience within an equality, diversity and inclusion framework and relevant appraisals; procurement experience per regulations.
* Ability to develop interpretation aids (trail boards, information panels, signs) and experience driving trailers; operating hand-steered grass-cutting machinery; and using brushcutters and chainsaws (over 18 for chainsaw/brushcutter).
* Proven ability to keep accurate records and produce reports; ability to travel across distances and handle undulating terrain.
* Knowledge of budgetary procedures and computing skills (MS Word and Excel).
* Commitment to providing excellent service and developing working practices and policies.
* Right to work in the UK as required by Home Office guidance; candidates may need to evidence eligibility before commencing.
Benefits
* Competitive salary and annual leave entitlement plus statutory holidays.
* Membership of the West Yorkshire Pension Fund with generous employer contributions.
* Flexible and hybrid working arrangements subject to service requirements.
* Clear career pathway and continuing professional development opportunities.
* A range of staff benefits to support wellbeing and financial wellbeing.
* Note: Sponsorship eligibility may apply for non-UK workers; check visa requirements before applying.
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