Senior Ranger - Central

Are you passionate about Dorset’s natural environment and motivated by improving how people access the countryside?

Join our Green space team as a Senior Countryside Ranger and play a key role in shaping how residents and visitors experience Dorset’s countryside. Whether it’s the South West Coast Path National Trail, a woodland walk, or Dorset’s rich mosaic of open landscapes, your work will support access, improve biodiversity, and have a positive daily impact on people who live, work, and visit Dorset.

As a Senior Countryside Ranger, you’ll lead on the improvement and maintenance of Dorset’s public rights of way network, helping people safely enjoy access to the coast and countryside. You’ll also manage countryside sites and roadside verges, and deliver projects that promote safe, sustainable and inclusive outdoor experiences.

• Lead and support a dedicated team of staff, volunteers and contractors to deliver daily operations and long‑term improvements.
• Shape Dorset’s countryside by delivering strategic access improvements, managing nature reserves, and securing funding for impactful projects.
• Work closely with communities, landowners, and partner organisations to achieve long‑lasting, meaningful change.
• Manage budgets, develop income‑generating opportunities and secure external funding.
• Enjoy a balance of planning, problem‑solving and hands‑on work - rarely are two days ever the same!
• Benefit from Dorset Council’s supportive working culture, training opportunities, and commitment to wellbeing.

You’ll be responsible for a geographical area within Dorset, managing public rights of way, roadside verges, nature reserves and much more.

• Coordinating staff, volunteers and contractors to deliver daily operations.
• Developing and delivering site and access management.
• Managing projects from start to finish, including procurement, budgets and reporting.
• Maintaining high standards of health and safety and environmental compliance.
• Responding to community feedback and liaising with stakeholders.

We’re looking for someone with:

• A recognised qualification in countryside management, or substantial experience working within the sector.
• Proven experience in managing teams, budgets, and projects.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills.
• A full manual driving licence and the ability to travel across Dorset.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and health and safety practices.
• The ability to work flexibly, remain calm under pressure, and lead by example.
• Good computer literacy, including confidence using mapping software, databases, and Microsoft Office tools.

You’ll need to be a confident communicator, able to build relationships with a wide range of stakeholders and represent Dorset Council professionally. An Enhanced Basic DBS check is required prior to appointment.

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