Assistant Forest Keeper (Ranger)
| Posting date: | 24 March 2026 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | Part time |
| Closing date: | 07 April 2026 |
| Location: | City of London, EC4V 3AL |
| Company: | City of London Corporation |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | 1187-44059136 |
Summary
Join Our Team – Protect, Engage & Preserve
Are you passionate about nature, conservation, and public engagement? We are seeking a dedicated Assistant Forest Keeper to be the welcoming face of Epping Forest. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the preservation of nature, heritage, and cultural assets while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide a warm and friendly welcome to visitors and stakeholders, encouraging responsible exploration of the Forest and Bufferlands.
- Conduct regular patrols on foot or via sustainable transport to ensure a high-visibility presence.
- Assist in litter management and recycling efforts, working with the Recycling and Waste team and local authorities.
- Conduct visual site checks and report defects to maintain infrastructure and visitor safety.
- Open and close car parks as per shift schedules, reporting any concerns promptly.
- Maintain and update promotional materials, ensuring clear and accessible information for visitors.
- Operate and maintain tools, machinery, and specialist vehicles as required (training provided).
- Support Forest Keepers (Constables) with conservation tasks, land management, and byelaw enforcement.
- Assist in gathering data for land, asset, and conservation monitoring.
- Engage with local stakeholders and community groups to foster positive relationships.
- Provide support during incidents and emergencies alongside relevant authorities.
- Adhere to health and safety protocols, risk assessments, and best practices.
- Work flexibly, including weekends, early mornings, and late shifts.
Essential Qualifications & Experience:
- GCSEs (Grade 4 or above) in English and Maths or equivalent.
- Full, clean driving licence.
- Experience working in a countryside or park environment.
- Proven track record of excellent customer service.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a high-performing team.
Desirable Qualifications & Experience:
- NVQ Level 2 in Countryside, Conservation, Ecology, or a related subject.
- First Aid certification.
- Experience in routine maintenance and minor repairs in an open space setting.
- Knowledge of litter and waste management in line with sustainability targets.
- Experience using and maintaining hand and power tools.
- Understanding of open space estate and nature conservation work.
Working Conditions:
- Outdoor work in all weather conditions.
- Shift-based work, including weekends and bank holidays.
- Seasonal work schedule (e.g., 30 hours/week in winter, 40 hours/week in summer).
- Hours between 07:00 – 22:30 as per roster.
Why Join Us?
This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference in one of the UK's most treasured natural landscapes. If you are passionate about conservation, public engagement, and outdoor work, we want to hear from you!
Join us in protecting and enhancing Epping Forest for generations to come!
Closing date: 12 noon on 7 April 2026
Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme