Assistant Ranger

Job Details:

Job Reference: HCC624442
Salary Range: £25,186 - £26,244 per annum
Work Location: Normandy Barn, Lymington
Hours per week: 37
Contract Type: Temporary (2 years)
Closing Date: 19 July 2026
Interview Date: 6 August 2026

The Role:

The Countryside Service Central Sites Team works across a range of sites in the New Forest and beyond including Lymington-Keyhaven Nature Reserve, Buckland Rings Iron Age Hill Fort, The Western Commons and Martin Down National Nature Reserve. All sites are managed with both wildlife and visitors in mind balancing the needs of conservation and recreation.

What you’ll do:

Your role will be to carry out a wide range of practical conservation and maintenance tasks on a variety of habitats as part of a small ranger team which works closely with groups of volunteers. Habitat management will include tasks such as scrub control, tree felling and mowing, species surveying, site patrols, livestock management and maintenance of site infrastructure. You will also contribute to site interpretation and social media content. The post requires a willingness to take on a wide range of support functions such as the maintenance of the workshop, both hand and power tools, and tree safety management. 

What we’re looking for:

A flexible approach to work is required including being willing to work outdoors in all weathers both in a team and on your own. A basic level of certification in the use of power tools such as chainsaws is essential. Further training will be provided to the successful candidate. Experience with grazing livestock (cattle, sheep and ponies) will be an advantage. You will have a basic knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet use and will be expected to use the County Council's online systems. You will possess good interpersonal skills and be able to undertake the physical requirements of the role. You will be required to work some weekends and bank holidays. 

Why join us?

We offer a flexible, motivating and inclusive workplace, where talent is truly recognised and developed. We have created an environment that you can look forward to being a part of and where you are empowered to be your best and believe in creating a workplace built on teamwork where people can grow and develop in their roles.
 
If you think you have what it takes to make a real difference in Hampshire, get in touch!
 
To find out more about what we can offer you in return, please see our benefits package.

Additional Information:

Assistant Ranger Candidate Pack

Contact Details for an Informal Discussion:

Peter Durnell, Countryside Team Manager on pete.durnell@hants.gov.uk