Countryside Lead Ranger (3 Posts – Permanent and Fixed Term)

Countryside Lead Ranger – Lead, Inspire, and Shape the Land 
 

Are you ready to take the lead in one of the most rewarding outdoor roles in the county? 

We’re looking for a dynamic and experienced Countryside Lead Ranger to help deliver high-quality stewardship across the Council’s countryside estate. This is your chance to blend practical land management with people leadership, biodiversity enhancement, and community engagement. 

You’ll be at the heart of our countryside operations—supervising rangers, managing habitats and visitor facilities, and helping to deliver our Local Nature Recovery Strategy. From organising events and improving access to supporting volunteers and monitoring contractors, no two days will be the same. 

What makes this role special? 

• You’ll lead on the ground—shaping how our sites are managed, maintained, and enjoyed 

• You’ll work with communities, partners, and contractors to bring nature to life 

• You’ll help deliver biodiversity, climate, and wellbeing goals through practical action 

• You’ll be part of a passionate team making a real difference to people and places across Derbyshire 

We have several Lead Ranger roles available, offering a fantastic opportunity to work across a variety of countryside locations in Derbyshire, including Shipley Country Park, Middleton Top, Elvaston Castle, the High Peak, and the eastern coalfields. These positions come with a mix of permanent and fixed-term contracts, and we welcome applications for both full-time and part-time roles—providing flexibility to suit different lifestyles and career goals. Candidates will have the opportunity to discuss their preferred base location at interview, and while we’ll do our best to accommodate preferences, final placements will be subject to service needs and demand. 

We’re looking for someone who: 

• Has solid experience in countryside management, from multi-user trails to urban greenspaces, reclaimed land and heavily visited destination sites. land and visitor site management 

• Can lead and motivate others with confidence and care 

• Is passionate about nature, heritage, and involving people. 

• Thrives on variety, problem-solving, and can embrace new technologies Can work in a fast-paced environment with a multitude of competing demands. 

Whether you’re already leading teams or ready to step up into a leadership role—if you’ve got the skills and the spark, we’d love to hear from you. 

Want to chat about the role? 
Drop me an email at  rod.whiteman@derbyshire.gov.uk—I’d be happy to tell you more. 

Ready to apply?

Please read the job and person profile to help you complete your application. Please detail how you meet the skills and experience we are looking for.

We believe that hard work and commitment should be rewarded, and we offer:

• Generous Annual Leave Scheme (25 days increasing to 30 days after 5 years’ service): Ensuring a healthy work-life balance.
• Local Government Pension Scheme: Providing financial security.
• Wellbeing Support Framework: Includes OH physician services, fast track physiotherapy and confidential psychological support services.
• Training and Development: Opportunities for professional qualifications and ongoing training.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Promoting a healthy lifestyle.
• Our Derbyshire Rewards: a package of benefits and discounts.
• & much more

Closing Date: Sunday 6th July 2025

Provisional Interview Date: Week Commencing 14 July 2025

We really look forward to hearing from you!

CSJS