Lead Countryside Ranger

About this job

This is a fantastic opportunity to combine your love of the outdoors with making a real difference for people and nature.

You will be part of a small, supportive Ranger Service team. Leading exciting education and community programmes. And help to shape the future of Eastbrookend Country Park and the Dagenham Corridor, whilst enjoying a varied role where no two days are the same.

About the Role

As Lead Countryside Ranger, you will play a key role in protecting, enhancing, and promoting Eastbrookend Country Park, the Eastbrookend Discovery Centre, and the wider Dagenham Corridor Green Belt. This is a hands-on role that combines conservation, education, and community engagement. You will help people connect with nature, support biodiversity, and ensure our green spaces remain welcoming, safe, and inspiring for everyone.

What You Will Do

Your work will be varied and rewarding, with responsibilities that include:

Environmental Education & Forest School

• Deliver engaging, curriculum-linked outdoor learning sessions for schools.
• Lead our Forest School programme in the purpose-built outdoor classroom.
• Inspire young people and diverse learners to connect with nature.
• Community Engagement & Volunteering
• Recruit, train, and lead volunteers in conservation activities.
• Organise community events, guided walks, and seasonal activities.
• Support social prescribing initiatives that promote wellbeing through nature.

Site Management & Conservation

• Help maintain high standards across the park, including repairs, signage, and safety checks.
• Contribute to habitat management and biodiversity monitoring.
• Support delivery of the Parks and Open Spaces Strategy and Green Flag Award standards. Events & Partnerships
• Work with schools, charities, and community groups
• Promote environmental awareness and outdoor learning through seasonal programmes.
• Build strong partnerships to expand the reach of the Ranger Service.

Special requirements for this post

• Full UK Driving Licence essential, as you will be required to travel between sites and across the borough.
• Willingness to work flexibly, including occasional evenings and weekends (time off in lieu will be provided).
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and undertake practical conservation and site maintenance tasks.
• Comfortable wearing the official Ranger Service uniform, personal protective equipment (PPE), and body-worn camera while on duty.
• Physically able to carry out manual tasks such as habitat management, site repairs, and equipment handling.
• Willingness to act as a key holder for the Discovery Centre and park facilities, including responsibility for health and safety checks.
• Commitment to equal opportunities, diversity, and inclusive community engagement.
• Understanding of, or willingness to learn about, relevant health and safety legislation, environmental regulations, and council policies.

About you

Are you passionate about the natural environment and enthusiastic about helping people connect with nature. With experience in conservation, outdoor education, or community engagement, you are confident leading groups of all ages and backgrounds, from schoolchildren to volunteers and corporate teams.

This role would suit someone who thrives in a varied, hands-on position where no two days are the same, and who is motivated by making a real difference for both people and nature.

You will bring:

• A strong interest in environmental education, with the ability to deliver engaging, curriculum-linked sessions and inspire learners through outdoor experiences.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, enabling you to build positive relationships with schools, community groups, volunteers, and partner organisations.
• Practical skills in site management and conservation, with the ability to carry out hands-on maintenance, habitat management, and biodiversity monitoring.
• Confidence in organising and leading events, guided walks, and community activities that promote health, wellbeing, and environmental awareness.
• A flexible and proactive approach, with the ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Strong organisational skills, including the ability to manage resources, maintain accurate records, and ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
• A commitment to inclusivity, equal opportunities, and engaging underrepresented groups in outdoor learning and volunteering.

About us

We are a small, dedicated team of Countryside Rangers with a wide range of skills, united by our passion for protecting green spaces and inspiring local people to connect with nature. From leading outdoor education and community events to conserving habitats and supporting wellbeing through nature, we thrive on making a positive difference every day.

Barking and Dagenham is an excellent employer that values diversity and inclusion. We are proud to create a workplace where everyone feels welcome, supported, and able to contribute their unique strengths.

Closing Date: 3rd June 2026
Interview date: w/c 22nd March 2026