Senior Countryside Warden

Guildford Council is expanding its Countryside Team.

This is an exciting opportunity for you to use your passion for the outdoors to help enhance the quality of our countryside and get involved in shaping the development of 3 newly opened sites.

The Guildford Countryside Team maintains over 800 hectares of Countryside, including Chalk Downland, Heathlands, Woodlands, Local Nature Reserves, SSSI’s and pockets of urban green space. Carrying out countryside work operations, contractor management and community involvement are an important part of the Countryside Warden Roles, and no workday is the same with most of the time spend out on site.

With experience of working in the countryside, you will have knowledge of countryside and habitat management, including the ability to carry out estate management, scrub clearance, tree felling, coppicing, fencing and other conservation tasks. As part of this front line service, you will be required to work on your own initiative and be able to communicate enthusiastically & effectively at all levels, including volunteer groups, partner organisations and contractors.

A driving licence and physical fitness are essential for this role, and you hold a National Certificate in Countryside Management or equivalent experience.

Job purpose:

• To ensure the sensitive and appropriate management of Guildford Borough Council countryside estate including the long-term continuity of woodland, grassland, chalk downland, heathland and other habitats and associated species.
• To promote and increase public, educational and community use and involvement in the above sites, including supervising volunteer groups, running events and activities as directed.
• To organise the operational maintenance of the countryside sites to ensure they are maintained in accordance with management plans, Stewardship agreements and the user’s expectations.

Closing date: 12 October 2026