As a countryside/conservation officer you would be involved in the management, protection and improvement of the local environment. You would encourage people to visit the countryside and promote understanding of the need to protect the natural environment and plant and wildlife habitats.
Your work would be varied, but would typically include:

· Advising landowners on how to manage their land to protect the countryside and wildlife
· Conducting surveys, carrying out research, analysing data and writing reports
· Dealing with complaints about issues such as overgrown rights of way
· Organising the upkeep of country parks and woodlands

· Trying to prevent damage to the countryside by making sure footpaths are clearly marked, and litter bins and car parks are provided
· Advising on planning applications – for example assessing the effects on the countryside of a new road or housing development
· Giving talks to local groups
· Producing resources like leaflets and information boards to show the public how to look after the countryside
· Advising on, organising or supporting local environmental activities and projects.
Key Skills
· Enthusiasm for the countryside and conservation issues
· Confidence and assertiveness
· The ability to explain technical and scientific issues to a variety of audiences
· Effective communication skills
· Tact and diplomacy
· Good IT skills.