Countryside Ranger - Derbyshire County Council

Countryside Classroom; Matlock; Hybrid; GBP 13,000 - 14,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual leave 25 days

Local Government Pension Scheme

Wellbeing support framework

Training and development

Cycle to work scheme

Derbyshire Rewards

Job summary

Derbyshire County Council is seeking a part-time Countryside Ranger to help manage habitats at Middleton Top, support volunteers, and engage visitors with Derbyshire’s natural spaces. The role is field-based, requires working Thursdays, Fridays and one weekend per month, and offers a supportive team environment with a strong focus on conservation.

You will contribute to biodiversity projects, site safety and welcoming experiences for visitors, while working with a dedicated team committed to

Qualifications

• Experience in land and facilities management.
• Enjoys working with people.
• Practical, reliable and loves outdoor work in all weather.
• Wants to make a real difference to nature and communities.

Responsibilities

• Manage Local Wildlife Sites and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs).
• Lead and support volunteer groups in practical conservation work.
• Contribute to events, education and visitor engagement.

Skills

Land & facilities management

People skills

Outdoor work

Conservation

Job description

Location: Middleton Top Wardens Cottage, Middleton Top, Middleton, Matlock
Reference: JOB/26/02929
Salary details: Grade 6 £13,423 per annum - £13,665 per annum
Job term: Part Time
Appointment type: Permanent
Hours: 18 Hours 30 minutes per week
Closing Date: 25 October 2026

Countryside Ranger – Be the Heart of Derbyshire’s Wild Spaces

Do you thrive outdoors, love practical work, and want to help protect nature?

We’re looking for a passionate and proactiveCountryside Rangerto join our team here at Middleton Top. This is a hands‑on role where you’ll be out in the field - managing habitats, supporting volunteers, and helping visitors connect with nature.

You’ll work as part of a friendly and committed team, delivering conservation projects, improving biodiversity, and making sure our sites are safe, welcoming, and inspiring for everyone.

Working days are every Thursday and Friday and 1 weekend a month.

What makes this role special?

• You’ll help manage Local Wildlife Sites and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs)
• You’ll lead and support volunteer groups in practical conservation work
• You’ll contribute to events, education, and visitor engagement
• You’ll be part of a team that’s passionate about protecting and enhancing Derbyshire’s natural and built heritage

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has experience in land and facilities management
• Enjoys working with people
• Is practical, innovative, reliable, and loves working outdoors in all weathers
• Wants to make a real difference to nature and communities

Whether you’re early in your countryside career or looking for a new challenge in a role that blends nature, people, and purpose—this could be the perfect fit.

We believe that hard work and commitment should be rewarded, and we offer:

• Generous Annual Leave Scheme (25 days increasing to 30 days after 5 years’ service, pro rata): Ensuring a healthy work-life balance.
• Local Government Pension Scheme: Providing financial security.
• Wellbeing Support Framework: Includes OH physician services, fast track physiotherapy and confidential psychological support services.
• Training and Development: Opportunities for professional qualifications and ongoing training.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Promoting a healthy lifestyle.
• Our Derbyshire Rewards: a package of benefits and discounts.
• & much more

Closing Date: Sunday 25th October 2026

Provisional Interview Date: Week Commencing 9th November 2026

Saturday and Sunday hours will be paid at plain time where it is part of your normal working pattern unless it is between 7pm and 7am, where enhanced rates of pay apply. Enhanced pay rates are paid for Bank Holiday working.

Young workers – Please note there are different rules for young workers in regard to working hours. Please ensure the information contained within the following ACAS link is understood before applying

Important: Derbyshire County Council holds a sponsorship licence, but this role does not offer visa sponsorship. Please apply only if you already have the right to work in the UK without sponsorship, as applications that do not meet this requirement will be rejected.

We welcome applications from individuals who share our values — being Collaborative, Innovative, Empowered and Accountable. These values describe who we are and what we stand for as a council. They help shape our culture, encourage consistent behaviour and guide how we work together to make a positive difference for both our employees and the residents we serve.