Environmental & Heritage Site Ranger Assistant

JobStart Scheme; Belfast; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

A community-focused organization in Belfast seeks a dedicated individual to support environmental conservation initiatives. The successful candidate will conduct inspections, identify issues, and liaise with partners to enhance local heritage. Strong observational and communication skills are essential. Hours vary up to 25 per week, with the possibility of additional hours. Applications are open to eligible benefit claimants in Northern Ireland. Closing date for applications is 16 Jan 2026.

Qualifications

• Experience or interest in community engagement and event facilitation.
• Basic administrative skills for project planning.

Responsibilities

• Conduct routine ground inspections of the Heritage Site.
• Identify and report environmental issues.
• Provide administrative support to the Task Group.
• Liaise with external partners.
• Assist in preparing small funding applications.
• Support planning of heritage-focused activities.

Skills

Strong observational skills for site monitoring

Good written communication skills

Ability to work with external partners

Basic administrative and organisational skills

Knowledge of environmental conservation

Experience in community engagement

Job description

THE EMPLOYER IS: LIGONIEL IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATIONThis role supports the Community Forum and Strategic Voice action, focusing on the Ligoniel Heritage Site and the objectives of the Environment & Heritage Task Group. The purpose of the role is to replace capacity lost due to the completion of a previous project staff contract and to ensure the continued protection and community use of local environmental assets.

Responsibilities

• Conduct routine ground inspections of the Ligoniel Heritage Site, including pathways and the Dam.
• Identify and formally report environmental issues such as Japanese knotweed, fly-tipping, and tree safety.
• Provide administrative support to the Environment & Heritage Task Group, including scheduling meetings and preparing background papers.
• Act as a liaison between LIA and external partners such as the National Trust and Belfast Hills Partnership.
• Gather quotes and assist in preparing small funding applications for site improvements (e.g., Polytunnel repairs and tree surgery).
• Support the planning and delivery of heritage-focused activities and guided walks with the Ligoniel Events/Festivals Group.

Skills and Qualifications

• Strong observational skills for site monitoring and hazard identification.
• Good written communication skills for formal reporting and administrative coordination.
• Ability to work professionally with external partners and multi-agency stakeholders.
• Basic administrative and organisational skills for project planning and gathering quotes.
• A knowledge of environmental conservation, heritage, or local history.
• Experience or interest in community engagement and event facilitation.

Further Information

The Employer is: LIGONIEL IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATIONJobStart Opportunity - Working Hours Information- Standard Hours: up to 25 hours per week.- Flexible/Reduced Hours: May be available upon approval by a Work Coach.- Additional Hours: The employer may offer extra hours depending on availability. This should be discussed directly with the employer before starting employment.The job advert may end before the closing date if requested by the employer.

Application Information

JOBSTART IS OPEN TO WORKING AGE BENEFIT CLAIMANTS WHO ARE DEEMED ELIGIBLE BY A WORK COACH. If you are on Universal Credit, please contact your Work Coach via your Journal. If you are in receipt of any other working age benefit, please contact your local Jobs & Benefits Office on 0800 001 5782.

Area: All of Northern Ireland
Closing date: 16 Jan 2026