Assistant Forest Keeper /Driver

City of London Corporation; Ivy Chimneys; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Ivy Chimneys is looking for two Assistant Forest Keeper/Drivers to join their Recycling and Waste Team. Candidates should be passionate about protecting nature and engaging with the community. Responsibilities include litter collection and site checks in Epping Forest, providing a welcoming presence for visitors. Ideal candidates will possess GCSEs in English and Maths, a full UK driving license, and experience driving larger vehicles. This is an outdoor role that may require weekend and holiday work.

Qualifications

• GCSEs in English and Maths (Grade 4 or above) are essential.
• Must have a full, clean UK driving license with the expectation of CPC training.
• Experience of driving a 4.5 tonne vehicle is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Provide a litter collection and picking service on Epping Forest.
• Welcome visitors and encourage responsible exploration of the Forest.
• Conduct visual site checks and report defects.

Skills

Teamwork

Customer service

Litter management

Education

GCSEs in English and Maths or equivalent

CPC qualification

Tools

4.5 tonne vehicle

Job description

Join Our Team – Protect, Engage & Preserve

Are you passionate about helping protect nature and conserving and preserving public open spaces? Does seeing litter discarded in natural areas make you want to do something about it? Are you an experienced commercial driver who is happy to drive the length and breadth of the Forest to clear waste and empty our bins each and every day.

Do you have access to your own vehicle on non-commercial driving days which will enable you to travel to locations that require litter picking.

We are seeking two Assistant Forest Keeper/Drivers to join our dedicated Recycling and Waste Team, contributing to the daily cleanliness, and to be a welcoming face, for those visiting Epping Forest. This is an exciting opportunity to help preserve nature, heritage, and cultural assets while ensuring a our visitor experience is safe and enjoyable.

Key Responsibilities:

• To provide a litter collection and litter picking service on Epping Forest and Bufferlands in a safe and efficient way.
• Provide a warm and friendly welcome to visitors and stakeholders, encouraging responsible exploration of the Forest and Bufferlands.
• Conduct visual site checks and report defects to help present the Forest to the high standard demanded by tour visitors.
• Assist in gathering data for waste and monitoring.
• Engage with local stakeholders and community groups to foster positive relationships and encourage volunteer.
• Provide support during incidents and emergencies alongside relevant authorities.
• Adhere to health and safety protocols, risk assessments, and best practices.

Essential (E)/Desirable (D) Qualifications & Experience:

• GCSEs (Grade 4 or above) in English and Maths or equivalent. (E)
• Full, clean UK driving licence alongside a CPC qualification or at a minimum, a full UK driving license with the expectation of training to gain a CPC qualification. (E)
• Experience of driving a 4.5 tonne vehicle or above. (D)
• Ability to work effectively as part of a high-performing team with a proven track record of excellent customer service. (D)
• Knowledge of litter and waste management in line with sustainability targets. (D)

Working Conditions:

• Outdoor work in all weather conditions.
• Work on a rotational shift pattern, including weekend and bank holiday working.

Why Join Us?

This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference in one of the UK's most treasured natural landscapes. If you are passionate about keeping areas litter free, public engagement and outdoor work, we want to hear from you!

Join us in protecting and enhancing Epping Forest for generations to come!

Closing date: 12 noon on 8 December 2025