Location: Bainbridge, near Leyburn, with regular travel across the National Park
Hours: Part time, 22.5 hours per week
Contract: Fixed term for 18 months
Salary: £29,540 to £36,363 pro rata per annum

Do you have a passion for community engagement and a commitment to making the outdoors accessible to everyone? If you believe everyone should be able to enjoy our natural heritage, this is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference.

About Us

We are the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, an organisation that protects, enhances and promotes the immense beauty, wildlife and character of the Yorkshire Dales. Set against expansive heather moorland tops, each valley has its own distinct charm, from crags and waterfalls to an underground labyrinth of caves.

The Benefits

• Competitive salary: £29,540 to £36,363 pro rata, per annum
• Generous leave: 26 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays
• Flexible working: Flexi-time scheme
• Excellent pension: Local Government Defined Benefit Pension Scheme
• Wellbeing support: Subsidised healthcare scheme, cycle to work scheme and staff discounts
• Free parking

The Role

As the Access to Eden Community Engagement Officer, you’ll lead the development and delivery of inclusive and meaningful nature-based activities at Podgill and Smardale Gill Nature Reserves.

You’ll co-create a new sensory trail, work closely with volunteers, and build strong relationships with under-served communities, particularly those with sensory impairments, to break down barriers to visiting the outdoors.

This role is part of the Access to Eden Partnership, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, which aims to empower and enable marginalised communities to enjoy, value and protect Eden’s natural environment.

Key responsibilities include:
• Creating, planning and delivering inspiring events and activities.
• Building positive partnerships with community organisations.
• Recruiting, supporting and motivating volunteers.
• Overseeing the design and delivery of the sensory trail, including managing budgets and contractors.

About you

You’ll have:
• Experience leading outdoor activities or events with a wide range of participants.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to build trust and rapport.
• Knowledge of inclusive practice and accessibility in outdoor settings.
• A proactive, collaborative approach to working with communities and partners.

Access to a car or access to a means of mobility support to meet the travel demands of the post (if driving must have a current valid driving licence and appropriate business insurance) is essential.

Join Our Team!

We’re proud to be a Disability Confident employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria, we guarantee you an interview.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcome applicants from all backgrounds to apply and join us.

For an informal chat about the role, contact Kiri Wood, Education, Engagement and Wellbeing Manager, on 01756 751623 or email kiri.wood@yorkshiredales.org.uk

Closing date: 11pm on Sunday, 1 March 2026.

Anticipated interview dates: Thursday, 12 March 2026.