Ranger

Canal & River Trust; Gloucester; On-site; GBP 10,000 - GBP 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading waterway organization in Gloucester is seeking enthusiastic volunteers to operate historical swing bridges along the canal. This role involves interacting with the public, ensuring safety, and performing bridge operations for passing boats. Full training is provided, making it an excellent opportunity to learn about canal heritage while working within a supportive team. Whether you prefer working alone or in pairs, this position is a rewarding way to contribute to the community and the waterways.

Qualifications

• Willingness to learn about canal operations and safety.
• Excellent communication skills to engage with the public.
• Ability to work in a team or independently.

Responsibilities

• Operate historical swing bridges safely.
• Interact with the public on the towpath.
• Maintain the heritage of the canal structures.

Skills

Ability to learn

Communication skills

Enthusiasm for waterways

Job description

Join our community of volunteers to help operate our historical swing bridges along the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal. As the friendly face of the waterways, you will interact with the public on the towpath, maintain safety and of course, open the bridges for boats! Visit some of the most beautiful spots in the area and enjoy the bustle of activity on a busy summer’s afternoon or the tranquility of a spring morning surrounded by wildlife. Volunteers can work alone or as a pair operating a bridge, keeping things running smoothly whilst maintaining the heritage of the canal.

All you need to bring is an ability to learn and communicate and an enthusiasm for the waterways. We will provide full training in bridge operation and essential health and safety training. You’ll take responsibility for significant heritage structures, sometimes stopping traffic and responding to incidents but you are never far from a colleague and will be working within a fantastically supportive team. If you require specific support please let us know and we can seek to facilitate this.

This is a fantastic way to learn more about canals and what’s involved in keeping them alive.