Countryside Estates Officer
Location: Surrey Area
Contract Type: Full-time, Contract
Role Overview:
We are seeking an experienced Countryside Estates Officer to join a local authority in the Surrey area on a contract basis. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a team of Rangers delivering countryside and estate management across a diverse portfolio of sites, including Local Nature Reserves, Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and open spaces managed for the benefit of wildlife and recreation.
You will play a key role in implementing the Council's Countryside Strategy, supporting the Countryside Officer, and engaging with volunteers, residents and partner organisations to promote biodiversity and environmental stewardship.
Key Responsibilities:
· Manage and lead the Countryside Team, setting work programmes and monitoring performance.
· Oversee practical habitat management, conservation, and estate maintenance across multiple sites.
· Ensure all works comply with Health & Safety regulations and staff receive appropriate training.
· Manage and procure countryside management contracts, including forestry and ditch maintenance.
· Supervise and coordinate tree works in the absence of the Arboriculture and Countryside Officer.
· Liaise with local conservation groups, record ecological surveys, and promote community engagement.
· Support the preparation of grant applications and assist in securing external funding.
· Implement and review the Council's Countryside Strategy, including woodland and habitat management.
· Enforce byelaws on Common Land and liaise with internal teams on wayleaves, easements, and licences.
· Promote the work of the Countryside Team and associated volunteer groups.
Candidate Profile:
· Proven experience in countryside, estate or environmental management.
· Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to motivate a team.
· Knowledge of habitat management, biodiversity conservation and related legislation.
· Confident liaising with residents, contractors, volunteers and partner organisations.
· Proactive, adaptable, and passionate about protecting and enhancing natural spaces.
For a full description and further information on the role, please call Phoebe Kingston at Carrington West on (phone number removed) or email (url removed)
FOOTNOTE:
Even if you are happy in your current role for now, we always welcome calls from Countryside, Environmental and Parks Management professionals keen to make their introductions for future opportunities. Our specialist team has a combined 100+ years' experience in this market. Please call Phoebe Kingston at Carrington West on (phone number removed) for more information.
By applying for this position, you are agreeing for Carrington West to hold and process your personal data in accordance with our Data Protection Policy. Your data will be shared with third-party clients specifically relevant to any roles you have applied for. If at any stage you wish to withdraw your consent, please email us