Countryside Estate Assistant

The Countryside Estate Operations team, within the Resources directorate at Surrey County Council, is seeking to appoint a Countryside Estate Assistant.

The annual salary for this position is 33,552 - 35,763 per annum. This is based on a 36-hour working week. You will be based out of our Merrow Complex in Guildford. Some weekend and evening work may be required this can be discussed at interview.

The team consists of 12 skilled and committed individuals that work closely together in a professional, positive and enjoyable working environment. Working to enhance public access and habitat conditions in some of the most beautiful parts of Surrey's countryside. The team is continually evolving and expanding its remit and capabilities. We are looking for an individual with a range of countryside management skills that would complement and enhance our team and its capabilities.

Rewards and Benefits

• 26 days' holiday, rising to 28 days after 2 years' service and 31 days after 5 years' service
• Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave
• An extensive Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing
• Up to 5 days of carer's leave per year
• Paternity, adoption and dependants leave
• A generous local government salary related pension
• Lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, shopping and many more
• 2 paid volunteering days per year
• Learning and development hub where you can access a wealth of resources

About the role

The aim of the Countryside Estate Operations Team is to protect, maintain and improve our 10,000-acre countryside estate. We work with other teams to support delivery of wider environmental projects and objectives. We undertake a range of management activities including public access and visitor management, conservation projects and infrastructure projects. We work with partners and tenants to ensure our land is safe, easily accessible for visitors and managed carefully to protect our valuable natural assets.

As a Countryside Estate Assistant, you will assist with implementing the County Council's statutory and priority countryside management duties and responsibilities on our countryside estate.

You will be an enthusiastic self-starter, often working independently on site, inspecting issues and reports. You will undertake a range of practical maintenance tasks and organize work with volunteers, supporting groups and individuals as necessary to ensure their personal safety and satisfaction. Tasks you will undertake include:

• Maintaining access and habitat management through vegetation clearance and tree works.
• Leading volunteer groups to maintain and enhance our sites.
• Proactive inspections to identify safety concerns or issues that could affect public access or enjoyment of our countryside.
• Prevent damage and encroachment by maintaining a visual presence on site and through intervention.
• You will have good IT and communication skills and be able to form excellent relationships with partner organizations, such as other councils, landowners, contractors, voluntary groups and community groups.

Shortlisting criteria

To be shortlisted for interview for this position, your application will clearly evidence:

• An interest and understanding of countryside management issues and of practical maintenance techniques.
• Ability to communicate effectively with a range of internal and external teams/bodies.
• Ability to drive and a valid driving license as well as the willingness to use a work vehicle as provided. You must be prepared to drive a variety of vehicles, including 4x4s and tractors, and be competent to tow a trailer.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather and sometimes in difficult terrain.
• Experience and qualifications to operate a tractor, chainsaw, flail mower, wood chipper, brushcutter, and other tools and machinery would be an advantage.

The job advert closes at 23:59 on 21st September 2025 with interviews to follow soon after.

Local Government Reorganisation

Surrey County Council is preparing for Local Government Reorganisation which will allow us to implement the Government led policy of devolution, which is all about giving more powers to local areas.

Currently, Surrey has a two-tier council system, with 11 district and borough councils and a county council, all responsible for different services. All these councils will be reorganised into a smaller number of new unitary councils which will come into effect in April 2027. At this point, this role will be transferred, with all existing terms and conditions intact into one of the new unitary councils.

Join our dynamic team and shape the future of local government. Make a lasting impact with innovative solutions and improved services for our community. Help us build a brighter future for our residents!

Our Commitment

Surrey County Council is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. A guaranteed interview will be offered to all disabled applicants where:

• The candidate has evidenced the minimum criteria for the role through their application
• The candidate has chosen to share that they have a disability on the application form

Our application form and onboarding process will provide an opportunity to request any reasonable adjustments for the interview and/or the role. We want to be an inclusive and diverse employer reflecting the community we serve and particularly welcome applications from all underrepresented groups.