Senior Ranger

Dorset Council

Join our Greenspace team as a Senior Countryside Ranger and play a key role in shaping how residents and visitors experience Dorset’s countryside. Whether it’s the South West Coast Path National Trail, a woodland walk, or Dorset’s rich mosaic of open landscapes, your work will support access, improve biodiversity, and have a positive daily impact on people who live, work, and visit Dorset.

You will

• Lead and support a dedicated team of staff, volunteers and contractors to deliver daily operations and long term improvements.
• Shape Dorset’s countryside by delivering strategic access improvements, managing nature reserves, and securing funding for impactful projects.
• Work closely with communities, landowners, and partner organisations to achieve long lasting, meaningful change.
• Enjoy a balance of planning, problem solving and hands on work – rarely are two days ever the same!
• Benefit from Dorset Council’s supportive working culture, training opportunities, and commitment to wellbeing.

What you can expect to be doing

You’ll be responsible for a geographical area within Dorset, managing public rights of way, roadside verges, nature reserves and much more.

Key tasks include

• Coordinating staff, volunteers and contractors to deliver daily operations.
• Developing and delivering site and access management.
• Managing projects from start to finish, including procurement, budgets and reporting.
• Maintaining high standards of health and safety and environmental compliance.
• Responding to community feedback and liaising with stakeholders.

We’re looking for someone with

• A recognised qualification in countryside management, or substantial experience working within the sector.
• Proven experience in managing teams, budgets, and projects.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills.
• A full manual driving licence and the ability to travel across Dorset.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and health and safety practices.
• The ability to work flexibly, remain calm under pressure, and lead by example.
• Good computer literacy, including confidence using mapping software, databases, and Microsoft Office tools.