Area Ranger

Are you looking to take the next step in countryside management? Join us as Area Ranger at Maidenhead & Cookham Commons —850 acres of historic, wildlife-rich land gifted to the National Trust by local residents in 1934.

This is a great opportunity to:

• Lead a dedicated team delivering practical conservation and access work.
• Shape the future of a landscape that includes SSSI-designated habitats, ancient woodland, wildflower meadows, and riverside commons.
• Access outstanding in-house training and career development opportunities.
• Play a key role in protecting and enhancing a nationally important landscape

What it's like to work here:You’ll be based at Maidenhead & Cookham Commons, part of the Cliveden Property Group , working closely with the Lead Ranger , a small team of rangers, and a large group of volunteers.

We work collaboratively across teams and with external partners to ensure our sites are well-managed, accessible, and welcoming. You’ll be part of a supportive and knowledgeable team that values nature, heritage, and inclusive access for all.

What you'll be doing:As Area Ranger, you’ll lead a small team of rangers and volunteers across several National Trust sites, delivering a flexible and effective programme of work aligned with our conservation and access goals.

You will:

• Develop and deliver an annual work programme based on the Estate Management Plan.
• Act as Woodland Technical Specialist , supporting woodland management and tree safety.
• Oversee compliance, including COSHH, machinery safety, and workplace inspections.
• Manage budgets, contractors, and resources efficiently.
• Support biological recording and ecological surveying across the portfolio.
• Engage the public through events, guided walks, and community outreach.

Who we're looking forWe welcome applications from people with a range of backgrounds and experiences. You’ll be a good match for this role if you have:

• Experience in countryside or land management , ideally in a public-facing setting.
• Experience leading or supervising staff and/or volunteers.
• Knowledge of habitat and wildlife management, including woodland and grassland.
• Relevant land-based qualifications (e.g. chainsaw use, tractor driving, trailer towing).
• Understanding of ecological surveying and biological recording .
• Ability to plan and deliver work programmes, including managing budgets and resources.
• Awareness of health, safety, and environmental compliance (e.g. risk assessments, COSHH).
• Confidence using digital tools to manage records and reporting.

A full UK driving licence is required for this role.

The packageThe National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.

• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary

• Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)

• Rental deposit loan scheme

• Season ticket loan

• EV car lease scheme

• Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts

• Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.

• Flexible working whenever possible

• Employee assistance programme

• Free parking at most Trust places