Team Leader - Public Rights of Way

Please apply online via the link provided. Please note, we do not accept CVs submitted without a fully completed online application form.

Team Leader (Public Rights of Way) - Permanent

Based at Smithies Lane Depot, Barnsley, with work across the borough

37 hours per week, Monday to Friday (7.00am to 3.00pm Monday to Thursday, 7.00am to 2.30pm Friday)

At Barnsley Council you can build a career that makes a real difference to people’s lives. We are an award-winning council and one of the biggest employers in the borough, supporting around 243,000 people. As part of our team you will have access to a range of employee rewards, pension benefits, training and development opportunities, and support for your health and wellbeing.

About the role

We are looking for a practical, motivated and experienced Head Ranger to lead our dedicated Countryside Rangers team. The team maintains and improves approximately 780 kilometres of public footpaths and bridleways across Barnsley, helping to provide safe, accessible and welcoming routes for residents and visitors.

This is a varied hands-on leadership role. You will lead by example while planning, supervising and carrying out a wide range of countryside maintenance and improvement work, including vegetation clearance, bridge construction, repairs to stiles and gates, drainage and surfacing works, sign installation, habitat creation, and accessibility improvements. You will also help coordinate and motivate volunteers and support partnership working on biodiversity and environmental projects.

The role involves working outdoors in all weathers and in a wide variety of locations, including remote sites that may only be accessed on foot over rough terrain while carrying materials and equipment. Appropriate personal protective equipment will be provided.

You will have regular opportunities to develop your skills and knowledge, including practical and technical training. We are looking for someone who can identify the most suitable design and construction approach for each site, deliver high-quality and durable practical work, and bring a strong commitment to countryside access, environmental improvement, and public safety.

About you

• A full driving licence

• Experience of using countryside machinery

• Previous experience of working in estates or countryside management

• A good standard of map reading skills

• The ability to undertake heavy manual work

• Knowledge of basic farming and land management practices

• A strong understanding of health and safety and public safety responsibilities

• The ability to lead, motivate and support a small team and volunteers to deliver safe, high-quality practical work

If you are passionate about the countryside, enjoy practical outdoor work, and have the skills and experience to lead a team delivering safe public access improvements across the borough, we would love to hear from you.

As part of the interview process, shortlisted candidates will be assessed on map reading and practical skills.

For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Sarah Ford, Principal PROW Officer, at sarahford@barnsley.gov.uk

Telephone: 07786 525942