National Trails Volunteer and Project Coordinator - OX29 5RDNumber of Positions: 1Contract Type: PermanentSalary: £33366 - £36124Working Hours: 37Location: OxfordshireBusiness Unit: Environment & HighwaysAbout UsThe Thames Path and The Ridgeway are two of England’s sixteen National Trails—long-distance routes designed to offer exceptional walking, cycling, and horse-riding experiences through some of the country’s most beautiful and historic landscapes.Our small, friendly team is passionate about protecting and enhancing these trails for everyone to enjoy. With the invaluable support of our dedicated volunteers, we maintain and improve trail infrastructure—installing and repairing signage, gates, and small bridges, and carrying out extensive summer mowing to keep paths clear and accessible.We also work closely with local communities and partners to promote the trails and the diverse environments they pass through. Whether it’s launching new initiatives, engaging the public, or exploring innovative ways to enhance the trail experience, we’re always looking for ways to go further.About the RoleA rare and exciting opportunity has arisen to join our National Trails team. We are seeking an energetic, personable, and resourceful person with hands-on experience in countryside management and volunteer coordination.As the Volunteer Scheme Coordinator, you will head the delivery of our volunteer programme, ensuring that the Thames Path and The Ridgeway meet National Trail Quality Standards. You’ll play a vital role in making sure our volunteers feel safe, motivated, well-trained, and properly equipped to carry out practical trail work.Key features of the role include:Managing and developing the Volunteer Scheme, including recruitment, training, and retention.Overseeing a dedicated workshop space, tools, and your own work truck.Leading and supportingvolunteers in practical countryside tasks such as:Conducting trail condition surveysMaking and installing signageClearing vegetation and maintaining accessInstalling gates and carrying out surface patch repairsMowing and seasonal maintenanceDeveloping new initiatives to enhance the trails and managing small-scale work contracts.About YouHas experience supervising volunteers in a practical outdoor setting.Is assured using tools and equipment for countryside access work.Communicates well and enjoys working with people from all backgrounds.Is organised, self-motivated, and capable of managing logistics and resourcesHas good IT skills and some working knowledge of GIS systems.Has a passion for the countryside and public access. Rewards and benefitsCulture of flexible working Technology to support agile working where role permits28 days annual leave p.a. plus bank holidays (this can increase to 31 as your length of service increases)Option to ‘buy’ additional holidayEmployee Assistance Programme including access to health and wellbeing supportMembership of the Local Government contributory pension scheme, with an employers contribution of up to 19.9%Enhanced family friendly policiesLocal and national discounts for shopping and travelGreat learning and development opportunities to support your ongoing developmentOur commitment to:Equality, Diversity and InclusionAt Oxfordshire County Council we are proud of our diverse workforce. Everyone is accepted for who they are, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital status, race, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, or on maternity or family leave. We have a number of staff network groups which provide peer support, education and safe spaces for all.Our commitment to:Guaranteed Interview SchemesAs a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview for disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the job. We also guarantee interviews to care leavers who have completed further education and who meet the essential criteria for the job. For those leaving care without any further education, we guarantee an interview for our apprenticeships. We are also committed to helping and supporting those transitioning from HM Armed Forces to civilian life and guarantee an interview for those demonstrating the essential criteria for the role, within three years of leaving the service.Our commitment to:SafeguardingOxfordshire County Council are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect these commitments.Our commitment to:Flexible WorkingWe are open to discussions about flexible working, which can include flexi-time, part time working, job sharing, nine-day fortnights and annualised hours, depending on the requirements of the role and the service.Follow us on Social MediaStay up-to-date with the latest news and featured jobs from Oxfordshire County Council by following us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.If you encounter any technical issues with the application system, please contact us at: careers@oxfordshire.gov.uk