Dumfries & Galloway Council

Countryside Access Officer

Contract type - Full Time 36 hrs per week, permanent

Salary: £36,285 - £38,952 per annum

An exciting and challenging opportunity has arisen within the Council’s Environment Team for the position of Countryside Access Officer.

If you have an interest in public access to the countryside, are a good communicator with a proven track record in solving problems and dealing with people, this may be the ideal opportunity for you. You’ll make full use of your skills as you fulfil the Councils duties under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act on responsible public access, manage the network of core paths and public rights of way in Dumfries and Galloway, covering maintenance and enforcement.

You’ll take the lead to ensure that access rights are protected and asserted.

You’ll have a relevant qualification and experience and have a confident, diplomatic and persuasive personality to negotiate with, present to and influence a range of different people. You’ll also need to be a quick learner. This role demands good communication skills, self-motivation and flexibility. By joining our busy and dedicated team, you will help to maintain the Council’s statutory duties under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act.

Dumfries and Galloway has over 2,000km of core paths and public rights of way which are a key element in the transport network, helping people to get to work and school, to enjoy the countryside and take exercise.

The successful candidate will be based in the Environment Team, currently working from home but normally based at Kirkbank House in Dumfries but will also need to visit locations throughout Dumfries and Galloway.

Applications are invited for the above posts from suitably qualified persons, with a minimum of an HNC or equivalent in a relevant discipline, and suitable experience. Training and support will be provided, though previous experience of Land Reform (Scotland) Act part 1 and public rights of way work is desirable.

Good written and oral communication skills are essential requirements, as are ICT skills, familiarity with the use of maps and access to transport. The post may be suitable for job share.

Interviews are scheduled to take place via Microsoft Teams/ or in person on a date to be confirmed.

Further information regarding these posts is available from Bryan Scott mob- 07825 712125 email bryan.scott@dumgal.gov.uk or Simon Fieldhouse email simon.fieldhouse@dumgal.gov.uk

Link to myjobscotland website - Countryside Access Officer - DGA10594 | Dumfries & Galloway Council | myjobscotland

Closing Date: 30/03/2024  Location: Kirkbank House, English Street, Dumfries, DG1 2HS