At a Glance
- Tasks: Help maintain Ashington's beautiful public spaces and seasonal displays.
- Company: Join Ashington Town Council, a supportive and community-focused employer.
- Benefits: Earn £13.47/hour with flexible hours and a chance to make a difference.
- Other info: Fixed-term role from June to October, perfect for summer job seekers.
- Why this job: Get hands-on experience while enhancing your local community's environment.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed, just a passion for outdoor work.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 € per year.
The Seasonal Neighbourhood Services Operative will work alongside the permanent Neighbourhood Services Officer (NSO) to deliver Ashington Town Council's neighbourhood services programme during the high‑season period from June to October. The post exists because the Council's programme during this period — particularly the sustainable bed maintenance across six wards, the seasonal planters and hanging baskets programme, and grounds maintenance — cannot be delivered within the permanent NSO's working week alone. The postholder will contribute to maintaining and improving the appearance and environmental quality of Ashington's public spaces, amenity areas, and key community assets, working to agreed schedules and standards and under the day‑to‑day direction of the Executive Officer.
Specific Duties and Responsibilities
- Seasonal Planters and Hanging Baskets: The Council operates 22 seasonal planter sites across the town at key locations and gateways throughout Ashington. The watering and maintenance programme is led by the permanent NSO. The postholder will support this programme.
- Sustainable Bed and Horticultural Maintenance: The Council maintains a programme of sustainable planting beds and horticultural features across all six wards. All sustainable beds are maintained on a weekly basis throughout the high season.
- Grounds Maintenance and General Environmental Work.
- Equipment, Vehicles, and Health and Safety.
- Community Engagement and Communication.
Grade and Pay
The post is graded at LC1, Spinal Column Point 6 under the NJC for Local Government Services (Green Book) pay scale as applied by Ashington Town Council. LC1(SCP 6) £13.47/HR. Ashington Town Council is a Real Living Wage accredited employer. The hourly rate of £13.47 meets and exceeds the Real Living Wage rate of £13.45. Salary is paid on a pro‑ratio basis for the duration of the fixed‑term contract. NJC Pay Scales are currently under negotiation and any increase will be applied as agreed.
Employment Status and Working Hours
The post is fixed term for the period June to October 2026 (approximately 22 weeks), subject to recruitment proceeding promptly. The Council intends to revisit the contract annually, subject to budget approval and service requirement. The standard working week is 37 hours, Monday to Friday. Working hours will be arranged with the Executive Officer to meet the operational requirements of the programme, particularly during seasonal planting weeks and in periods of high demand. The usual working day is 8:30am – 4:30pm. Occasional weekend working may be required and will be agreed in advance.
Equal Opportunities
The Council is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, or age.
SEASONAL NEIGHBOURHOOD SERVICES OPERATIVE in Northumberland employer: ASHINTON TOWN COUNCIL
Ashington Town Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values community engagement and environmental stewardship. As a Real Living Wage accredited employer, we provide competitive pay and opportunities for personal growth while contributing to the beautification of Ashington's public spaces. Join us in making a meaningful impact during the high season, with flexible working hours and a commitment to equal opportunities for all.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEASONAL NEIGHBOURHOOD SERVICES OPERATIVE in Northumberland
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! If you can, reach out to the Neighbourhood Services Officer or other team members before your interview. A friendly chat can give you insights into their work culture and what they value in a candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for community service! When you’re chatting with them, share any experiences you have in maintaining public spaces or working on community projects. It’ll show that you’re not just looking for a job, but you genuinely care about making Ashington a better place.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to demonstrate your skills! Whether it’s horticultural knowledge or grounds maintenance techniques, think of examples from your past that highlight your abilities. Practical experience speaks volumes!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Ashington Town Council.
We think you need these skills to ace SEASONAL NEIGHBOURHOOD SERVICES OPERATIVE in Northumberland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Role:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the Seasonal Neighbourhood Services Operative role shine through. We want to see that you care about maintaining and improving Ashington's public spaces, so share any relevant experiences or interests that connect with this.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to fit the job description. Highlight your skills and experiences that align with the specific duties like sustainable bed maintenance and community engagement. This helps us see why you're a great fit for the team!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and long-winded explanations. Use bullet points if it helps to make your skills and experiences stand out more clearly.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at StudySmarter.
How to prepare for a job interview at ASHINTON TOWN COUNCIL
✨Know Your Neighbourhood Services
Familiarise yourself with Ashington Town Council's neighbourhood services programme. Understand the specifics of seasonal planters, hanging baskets, and sustainable bed maintenance. This knowledge will show your genuine interest in the role and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Showcase Your Horticultural Skills
If you've got experience in gardening or grounds maintenance, be sure to highlight it! Bring examples of your past work or discuss any relevant projects. This will demonstrate your practical skills and how they align with the job requirements.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication
Since you'll be working closely with the permanent Neighbourhood Services Officer, it's crucial to showcase your teamwork abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous roles, especially in community or environmental projects.
✨Prepare for Health and Safety Questions
Health and safety is a big part of this role. Brush up on basic health and safety practices related to grounds maintenance and equipment use. Being able to discuss these topics will show that you're responsible and ready to contribute safely to the team.
