Equine Event jobs

We have a position available in our Upcott sanctuary in North Devon. There may also be travel across sanctuary sites, as needed.

37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday with flexibility for seasonal tasks such as haymaking.

Salary: G.5 £31,650 per annum, including a company vehicle with a paid fuel card.

Do you love working outdoors, caring for landscapes, and making a real difference?

As an Estate Ranger at The Mare and Foal Sanctuary, you’ll play a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing our sites to create safe and sustainable environments for horses, ponies, and wildlife. This is a hands-on and varied role, blending farm maintenance with conservation work. You’ll be part of a dynamic team, responsible for fencing, habitat management, drainage, and essential countryside maintenance.

Join us and be part of something meaningful!

What You Will Be Doing:

Site Maintenance and Estate Work

• Operate tractors and attachments for tasks such as moving hay bales and clearing muck.
• Carry out fencing repairs, gate installations, drainage, and ditch maintenance.
• Conduct strimming, hedge cutting, and woodland management.
• Use diggers, dumpers, and chainsaws for site maintenance.

Wildlife and Habitat Conservation

• Support biodiversity projects including tree planting and hedgerow management.
• Contribute to conservation initiatives improving sanctuary land.

Health and Safety Compliance

• Follow all Health and Safety policies and risk assessments.
• Use Shire Systems software for safety checks and maintenance records.
• Identify and report hazards proactively.

Equipment and Materials Management

• Maintain tools, vehicles, and machinery to ensure safety and efficiency.
• Source materials and obtain competitive quotes when required.

Team Support and Events

• Work collaboratively with the Estate and Sanctuary teams.
• Assist with public events, including occasional weekend work.
• Support ongoing training and development within the Ranger Team.

What You’ll Bring:Essential Skills and Qualifications

• Countryside Management Diploma (or equivalent experience).
• PA1 and PA6 Spraying Qualification.
• CS30 Chainsaw Qualification.
• Proven experience in farm and land management, including:
• Tractor operation and fencing.
• Drainage and habitat conservation.
• Strimming, hedge cutting, and general site maintenance.
• Basic IT skills for maintenance reporting.
• Full UK driving licence.

About The Mare and Foal Sanctuary

The Mare and Foal Sanctuary is the largest equine welfare charity in the South West peninsula, dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of horses and ponies who have suffered neglect, abuse, and trauma. We also deliver a range of Equine Assisted Services with our rescued horses and ponies. With five sites across Devon, a clear five-year strategy, and ambitious plans for the future, now is the perfect time to join our team.

Why Join Us?

Generous Holidays – 30 days (including bank holidays), increasing with length of service.

Flexible Working – We strive to accommodate your preferred hours where possible.

Learning & Development – Tailored training through our Learning Management System (LMS).

Exclusive Discounts – Charity Workers Discount Scheme and savings at various attractions.

Wellbeing Support – Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), prescription reimbursements, and wellness initiatives.

If you love working outdoors, have strong practical skills, and want to make a difference in equine welfare and conservation, we’d love to hear from you!

Please apply with CV and cover letter by 16th July to pnc@mareandfoal.org

Please note that this role is subject to a DBS check, and you will be required to provide proof of your right to work in the UK.

Pay: £31,650.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• Employee discount
• Free flu jabs
• Health & wellbeing programme
• On-site parking
• Sabbatical
• Sick pay

Work Location: In person