Definitive Map Officer

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Job Reference: HCC623632

Salary Range: £33,178 - £36,369 per annum

Work Location: Elizabeth II Court, Winchester

Hours per week: 37

Contract Type: Permanent

Closing Date: 20 April 2026

Interview Date: 3 June 2026

The Definitive Map Officer post sits within the Definitive Map Team, which is part of the Countryside Service. The team is responsible for overseeing the management of the Definitive Map of Public Rights of Way and the registers of Commons and Town or Village Greens. Most of the team’s work is driven by applications for Definitive Map Modification Orders (DMMOs).

Reporting to the Senior Definitive Map Officer, you will have your own caseload, investigating and recommending whether to accept applications for DMMOs, in line with the County Council’s statutory duties under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981. This will include the preparation and presentation of complex reports and the representation of the Council at public inquiries. You will also assist with ongoing work to review and maintain the Definitive Map.

The Definitive Map Officer is responsible for managing and progressing a caseload of Definitive Map Modification Order applications, ensuring that each case is fully investigated and determined in accordance with the County Council’s statutory duties under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. The role involves researching and assessing complex historical and contemporary evidence, preparing detailed and legally robust reports and recommendations, and advising Members or senior officers on whether applications should be accepted or refused. The postholder represents the Council at public hearings and inquiries, including presenting evidence and responding to cross‑examination, and acts as a key point of contact for applicants, landowners, professional agents and members of the public. In addition, the role provides specialist advice on rights of way legislation, contributes to the ongoing review and maintenance of the Definitive Map, and supports effective team working through record‑keeping, process improvement and the direction of administrative support staff.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and self‑motivated individual to join our dedicated, supportive and friendly team. The successful applicant should be educated to degree level or have previous experience of working in public rights of way. The post is a hybrid role, split between home and our Winchester office. Some infrequent travel will be necessary for site meetings and survey work.

We offer a flexible, motivating and inclusive workplace, where talent is truly recognised and developed. We have created an environment that you can look forward to being a part of and where you are empowered to be your best and believe in creating a workplace built on teamwork where people can grow and develop in their roles.

If you think you have what it takes to make a real difference in Hampshire, get in touch!

To find out more about what we can offer you in return, please see our Benefits Package.

Hampshire is a beautiful place to live, with vibrant cities, miles of coastline and two National Parks. If you enjoy outdoor activities, you’ll find world class walking, cycling, sailing and much more. For more information, please go to Living and Working in Hampshire.

Jennifer Holden‑Warren, Senior Definitive Map Officer on (Monday to Wednesday), or Harry Goodchild, Definitive Map Manager on 03707 797 652 (Thursday and Friday).

Hampshire County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment.

In order to combat discrimination, no unnecessary conditions or requirements will be applied which could have a disproportionately adverse effect on any one group. All sections of the population will have equal access to jobs. No applicant or employee will receive less favourable treatment because of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership and pregnancy or maternity, unless a Genuine Occupational Requirement (GOR) applies.

We are a Disability Confident Employer - committed to ensuring that our recruitment and selection process is inclusive and accessible.