TORBAY COAST AND COUNTRYSIDE TRUST TRAINEE INFORMATION SHEET TRAINEE TITLE: Assistant Countryside Ranger (Kingfisher) RESPONSIBLE TO: Berry Head National Nature Reserve Manager MAIN PURPOSE OF THE PLACEMENT: To conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife value and public amenity of Torbay's coast and countryside. To improve access to Torbay's coast and countryside and provide facilities for informal outdoor recreation. To conserve wildlife habitats, natural resources and features of archaeological and historic interest. To increase public awareness, understanding and enjoyment of the natural environment of Torbay. To balance the needs of farming, recreation, tourism and conservation in the countryside. To assist in the maintenance of land managed by Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust effectively and in accordance with the overall aims of the Trust. The above overall aims will be carried out in line with Trust policies. The general duties and responsibilities involved in this placement will be as follows: 1. Performing practical landscape, access and habitat enhancement schemes to a high standard as directed by the National Nature Reserve Manager 2. Working with volunteers, both from organised groups (e.g. BTCV, Torbay Wildlife Group) and individuals to carry out a wide range of tasks 3. Patrolling and inspecting sites, assisting and advising the public using those sites and presenting a positive, helpful image at all times 4. Staffing Site Visitor Centres and contributing towards interpretative facilities 5. Adhering to all administrative and financial procedures relating to Events, School visits and the Site Visitor Centre 6. Assisting in the surveying and recording of wildlife and maintaining records where appropriate 7. Liasing with local special interest and specialist groups as necessary 8. Providing support to staff working with schools and colleges on site to increase understanding of the natural environment 9. Providing support to staff leading guided walks and events and giving illustrated talks to interested groups 10. Improving footpath signing and maintaining existing signs throughout the area 11. Inspecting and surveying on a regular basis the condition of footpaths, bridleways and open spaces to ensure that all furniture and conditions are safe for public use and of the highest quality possible 12. Dealing with conflicts and solving typical problems encountered in urban fringe and coastal areas including fly-tipping, vandalism, off-road biking and driving and trespass 13. Assisting in the management of conservation areas and other land in the best interests of the Trust 14. Observe all Health and Safety requirements as directed by the National Nature Reserve Manager 15. Ensuring that legal, statutory and other relevant provisions governing or affecting the work are complied with 16. Undertaking any other duties as may be assigned from time to time TORBAY COAST AND COUNTRYSIDE TRUST QUALITIES SOUGHT IN ‘PROJECT KINGFISHER’ TRAINEES DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS Recognised qualifications in countryside management OR relevant practical experience /training EXPERIENCE Voluntary work in nature conservation KNOWLEDGE Ability to demonstrate knowledge of wildlife/nature conservation issues SKILLS An unbiased approach to people and an ability to deal with people of all ages and backgrounds Ability to work in an organised and responsible manner alone and with others Aptitude for countryside management, especially practical tasks DISPOSITION Tact and diplomacy Willing to learn Sense of humour OTHER Flexible approach to working hours to include weekends Willing to work in the field in all weathers Not in employment