At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain the Sanctuary's outdoor spaces, ensuring they are clean and presentable.
- Company: Join The Big Cat Sanctuary, a leading conservation site dedicated to big cats.
- Benefits: Enjoy a starting salary of £27,000, 28 days holiday, and staff discounts.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that supports wildlife while working in a beautiful outdoor environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in groundskeeping or landscaping is essential; must be physically fit and detail-oriented.
- Other info: Full-time role with some weekend work; driving licence required as public transport is unavailable.
The predicted salary is between 23000 - 30000 £ per year.
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The Big Cat Sanctuary
Kent Closing date for applications is: 6th Jul 2025
Contact: Lisa Pressland (jobs@thebigcatsanctuary.org) Sector: Horticulture Type: Paid Contract type: Full-time Salary: Starting salary circa £27,000 PA
Groundskeeper
(Full-Time, Permanent)
About The Role
The Big Cat Sanctuary is seeking a reliable and hard-working Groundskeeper to help maintain the high standards of the Sanctuary’s outdoor spaces. This is a hands-on role focused on keeping the grounds clean, tidy, and presentable at all times, supporting both the daily running of the site and the visitor experience.
Duties will include regular grass cutting, hedge trimming, verge maintenance, basic landscaping, and general site upkeep. You’ll work independently and alongside other departments to ensure a safe and attractive environment for staff, visitors, and the animals.
A flexible and proactive approach is essential, as some weekend and Bank Holiday working will be required. The role also requires a smart appearance and strict adherence to health and safety regulations.
Key Responsibilities
- Mow lawns and large grassed areas, cut verges, and maintain pathways and open spaces
- Trim hedges, bushes, and shrubs as needed to keep the site tidy and safe
- Carry out general grounds maintenance and light landscaping
- Operate, maintain, and safely store groundskeeping equipment and tools (mowers, strimmers, hedge trimmers, etc.)
- Support with gritting, snow clearance and general site maintenance as needed
- Work closely with the Buildings & Maintenance and Animal Keeper teams as required
- Identify and report any site issues, hazards, or required repairs
- Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety, site policies and procedures
- Positively represent the Sanctuary when on site and during any visitor interactions
- Attend training, meetings and take part in emergency procedures as required
Essential
Your Skills & Experience:
- Previous experience in groundskeeping, landscaping or outdoor maintenance
- Competent in using grounds maintenance equipment (mowers, strimmers, hedge trimmers, etc.)
- High attention to detail and good time management skills
- Able to work independently, take initiative and work as part of a team
- Physically fit and able to work outdoors in all weathers
- Tidy in appearance and committed to Health & Safety standards
- Full UK driving licence and own transport (The Sanctuary is not accessible via public transport)
- Right to live and work in the UK (documented proof will be required)
Desirable
- Experience working in a zoo, parkland, visitor attraction or conservation site
- Basic landscaping or fencing skills
- Familiarity with habitat or wildlife-related environments
The position is offered on a full-time basis, 5 days per week (generally 08.00-17.00)
In Return, You Will Receive
- Starting salary circa £27,000 PA
- 28 days holiday (including Bank Holidays), plus Christmas Day as standard
- Full staff uniform
- A range of staff discounts/benefit
Apply For This Job
To apply, please email your CV and cover letter to jobs@thebigcatsanctuary.org stating “Groundskeeper” in the email title
Seniority level
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Seniority level
Entry level
Employment type
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Employment type
Full-time
Job function
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Job function
Management and Manufacturing
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Groundskeeper employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Contact Detail:
British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Groundskeeper
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific groundskeeping tasks mentioned in the job description. Understanding the daily responsibilities, such as mowing lawns and trimming hedges, will help you demonstrate your knowledge during any interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your experience with grounds maintenance equipment. If you've used mowers, strimmers, or hedge trimmers before, be ready to discuss this in detail, as it’s a key requirement for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Highlight your ability to work independently and as part of a team. The role requires collaboration with other departments, so sharing examples of teamwork and initiative can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Emphasise your commitment to health and safety standards. Given the nature of the job, being able to discuss how you’ve adhered to safety protocols in previous roles will show that you take this aspect seriously.
We think you need these skills to ace Groundskeeper
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in groundskeeping, landscaping, or outdoor maintenance. Include specific examples of tasks you've performed that align with the job description, such as operating grounds maintenance equipment.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for maintaining outdoor spaces and your commitment to health and safety standards. Mention why you want to work at The Big Cat Sanctuary and how your skills can contribute to their mission.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your attention to detail, time management skills, and ability to work independently or as part of a team. If you have experience in a zoo or conservation site, make sure to mention it as it’s a desirable quality for this role.
Follow Application Instructions: When applying, ensure you send your CV and cover letter to the specified email address, using 'Groundskeeper' in the subject line. Double-check for any spelling or grammatical errors before hitting send to make a great first impression.
How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
✨Show Your Passion for Nature
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working outdoors and caring for the environment. The Big Cat Sanctuary values individuals who are passionate about wildlife and conservation, so share any relevant experiences or personal stories that highlight your commitment.
✨Demonstrate Your Skills with Equipment
Be prepared to discuss your experience with grounds maintenance equipment like mowers and hedge trimmers. If possible, mention specific tasks you've completed using these tools, as this will show your competence and readiness for the role.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Independence
The role requires both independent work and collaboration with other teams. Share examples of how you've successfully worked alone and as part of a team in previous jobs, highlighting your flexibility and proactive approach.
✨Dress Smartly and Be Professional
Since a smart appearance is essential for this role, make sure to dress appropriately for the interview. This not only shows respect for the interviewers but also reflects your understanding of the importance of professionalism in the workplace.