Lead Ranger

**National Trust**:
**Lead Ranger**:
Location: Murlough, Stableyard, Murlough, Dundrum, BT33 0NQ
Contract Type: Fixed Term until February 2024
Reference/IRC: IRC134362
Closing Date: 5th March

**Salary**: £29,640 pa

**Summary**

Working with the ranger and volunteer team as part of our exciting Mournes Projects you'll be responsible for the implementation of the Mournes Path Restoration and Wildfire Recovery Projects.

You'll lead on the delivery of habitat and wildlife surveys, GIS mapping, analysis and interpretation. You'll manage contractors, liaise with and maintain strong relationships with tenant and neighbouring farmers, participate in community outreach events, and oversee practical footpath and habitat management works on Slieve Donard property.

The role may also involve assisting with interpretation and engagement with visitors to ensure they have an exceptional visitor experience, as well as supporting with communications including regular media and website updates.

**What it's like to work here**

Murlough National Nature Reserve | National Trust

**What you'll be doing**

Reporting to the Countryside Manager you'll be leading the ranger team on the delivery of two vital projects delivered by the National Trust in the Mournes:
The National Trust Mourne Path Improvement Project aims to address erosion control and repair the path along Slieve Donard’s main access route, from the foot of The National Trust’s ownership at Glen River Valley all the way up along the North West slope to the summit of Donard. The path has suffered from severe erosion as a result of water flow run-off and the increased number of visitors attracted annually to Slieve Donard.

The Mournes Wildfire Recovery Project started following Slieve Donard’s devastating fire in April 2021, which burnt a large extent of heathland much of which (200 ha) fell within National Trust land. The project's aim is to help with the recovery from the fire and to build resilience against future fires. To ensure a favourable post-fire recovery of the impacted upland habitats, it's crucial to adjust the land management accordingly, controlling grazing pressures in the areas impacted by the fire, facilitating the best possible recovery from the fire.

**Who we're looking for**
- Have practical experience of countryside/rural skills
- Have evidence of good people management and leadership
- Have strong organisational skills including work programming
- Have a full UK Driving licence
- Be able to manage contractors and small projects, including budgets.

**You'll need to demonstrate the following experience on your CV/Application;**
- Diploma/NVQ3 or higher in countryside or environmental conservation
- Habitat and species surveying experience

**Closing Date**: 05/03/2023 **Location**: Murlough, Stableyard, Murlough, Dundrum, BT33 0NQ