Recreation Craftsperson – Forest of Dean

About the role

The Recreation Craftsperson supports the Forest of Dean visitor experience by keeping sites, car parks and facilities clean, tidy and safe. Based at Beechenhurst, you will work outdoors across a network of trails, play areas and visitor centres, often in changing weather and on varied terrain.

Key responsibilities

• Collect and dispose of rubbish from bins, perform litter picking and maintain site cleanliness.
• Unlock gates and barriers each morning according to seasonal opening schedules.
• Carry out routine maintenance such as installing, repairing and painting signs, fixing fences and replenishing fall‑protection equipment.
• Seasonal strimming, mowing and occasional chemical spraying of vegetation after appropriate training.
• Inspect and service public toilets, restock supplies and report or clear minor faults.
• Travel on foot, by bike or vehicle (on‑ and off‑road) to cover multiple sites, sometimes beyond the Forest of Dean.

Required profile

• Resilient and adaptable, able to work independently and as part of a rotating seven‑day roster.
• Physically fit for demanding outdoor tasks and comfortable working in all weather conditions.
• Willing to work alternate weekends, public holidays and occasional out‑of‑hours events.

Required skills

• Mowing and vegetation management equipment operation.
• Certified chemical spraying (pesticide/weed control) handling.
• Sign installation and repair.
• Fence repair and basic carpentry.
• Use of hand tools and off‑road vehicle operation.

What we offer

• Opportunity to work in a nationally‑visited forest environment.
• Varied daily tasks with no two days the same.
• Training for specialised equipment and safety procedures.
• Team‑oriented culture supporting professional development.