Park Ranger
Salary
£17,000 -£25,000
Main Employers
- The Forestry Commission
- National Park Authorities
- Local councils
- Heritage sites
- Country parks
- Large estates
Job Profile
Park rangers manage the conservation and use of resources in parks, recreation areas, and historic sites. Their many roles include traditional park keeper, community worker and customer service. Rangers are also responsible for the safety and education of visitors, enforcing safety laws and providing aid when needed.
The work changes focus during the different seasons, from being reactive in summer with organising events and preventing misuse, to winter, which can involve habitat management and working with community groups to plant trees and coppice areas of woodland.
Roles and Responsibilities
Jobs will vary according to each employer; however you could expect to be involved in:
- Monitoring and controlling wildlife, water quality and pollution
- Completing conservation surveys
- Inputting to operations plans, including wildlife and conservation advice for site planning
- Inspecting boundaries and undertaking repairs
- Planning and leading guided walks
- Attending and contributing to local events
- Ensuring law enforcement
- Promoting public understanding and enjoyment of the natural environment
Qualifications
Relevant further education subjects include: Anthropology; Archaeology; Biology; Botany; Business; Countryside Management; Geography; Geology; History; Horticulture; Museum Studies; Natural or Earth Sciences; Natural Resource Management; Parks Management; Sociology
Career Development
It is not a well paid job but competition exists for park ranger positions in all grade levels. Depending upon qualifications, rangers begin their service at various grades. Many park rangers start through voluntary positions, such as an assistant with the National Trust. From entry, rangers may become managers or specialists in interpretation, resource management, park planning and related areas. At upper levels, rangers' responsibilities and independence increase and upper level managers are recruited primarily for their managerial capabilities.
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