Job Description

Countryside Officer - Maternity Cover

Salary: Grade 7 £35,412 - £39,152 (six month fixed term contract)
Hours: 37 hours per week
Location: Gosport

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Countryside Officer to join our team on a full-time, fixed-term contract of up to 6 months (with a possibility to extend) to cover maternity leave. The role primarily supports the management of the Alver Valley Country Park and other countryside sites across the borough of Gosport.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver effective habitat and estate management across designated countryside sites
• Provide advice to members of the public on countryside and ecological issues
• Support and lead educational visits, guided walks, and public events
• Work collaboratively with volunteers, partner organisations, and other professionals
• Undertake lone working when required
• Represent the service at occasional evening meetings and weekend events

Essential Requirements

• Demonstrable experience in countryside management, ecology, or a related field
• Strong understanding of ecological issues, relevant legislation, and habitat management practices
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage confidently with the public, volunteers, and colleagues
• Commitment, enthusiasm, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team
• A full driving licence is essential, as the role requires travel across the borough. A council vehicle will be provided for work-related travel.

Working Hours

This is a 37-hour per week role, normally worked Monday to Friday. Flexibility is required, as some weekend and evening work will be necessary to support events, meetings, and guided activities.

If you are interested, please download the attached Job Description for more information regarding the role and the person we are looking for to join our service.

How to apply

To make sure your application is above the rest, please review the "job profile" and "how to apply" to ensure your application matches the requirements of the role. Please ensure you fully read and follow the guidance so you can demonstrate how you meet the criteria under "who is the person" on the "job profile".

PLEASE DO NOT JUST SUBMIT A CV.

Please ensure you refer to the "how to apply" document when you complete your application as there is information in there that you need to include and evidence in your application for this role. This is really important or you are likely not to be short listed.

Email your submission to gbcrecruitment@gosport.gov.uk

Closing date for receipt of completed applications: Friday 27 Feb 2026

Interviews will take place: Date to be confirmed with successful candidates.

Job Description

How to Apply

Application Form

Portsmouth City Council provides public services including education, social care, planning, parks, housing, events, libraries and museums across the city of Portsmouth on the south coast.