At a Glance
- Tasks: Help maintain beautiful parks and open spaces while working outdoors.
- Company: Bath & North East Somerset Council, dedicated to improving community life.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, competitive pay, and extra for weekend work.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and grow your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Get fit, enjoy nature, and make a positive impact in your community.
- Qualifications: Clean driving licence and a passion for horticulture.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Overview
At Bath & North East Somerset Council we have one overriding purpose to improve people’s lives. We operate in-house services to keep our neighbourhoods and open spaces well maintained. You’ll need to be physically fit to meet the job description requirements and be prepared to work outdoors in all weather.
The primary purpose of this post is to assist the team leader with the day-to-day running and development of the team in accordance with the Council’s Vision and Values, policy and other objectives, to achieve maximum effectiveness and efficiency.
Responsibilities
- Planting, pruning, and seeding
- Hedge trimming
- Grass cutting in parks, open spaces and verges
- Strimming, leaf blowing, raking
- Setting out and marking sports areas
- Upkeep of pitches (artificial and natural)
- Propagation and nursery care of plants
- Site preparation
- Manual litter picking and sweeping
- Emptying litter and recycling bins, and replacing liners
- Using electronic mobile devices to record work and log issues
- Resolving complaints as directed by managers
- Work in a team of up to 10 grounds people to carry out horticultural and related operations
Qualifications
Essential
- Driver must have a clean category B or above licence
Desirable
- Vocational qualification or experience (NVQ Level 2 or 3 or RHS equivalent) in Landscaping, Horticulture, or related area
- Driving licence, plus relevant NPTC/LANTRA machinery operation certification (e.g., ride-on mowers/tractors)
- Knowledge of horticulture practices and plant care
- Experience delivering general or specific grounds maintenance and operating relevant machinery and small plant
General
The post-holder will be expected to work/be available outside normal office hours including Bank Holidays, weekends and evenings as required. You will be compensated for this. Enhancements are paid for weekend and Bank Holiday working.
More information
If you would like more details or to chat through the role, please contact Matt Soan, Senior Supervisor, at Matt_Soan@bathnes.gov.uk or 07530 263159. Interview date: TBC. Please note the advert may close earlier than the stated closing date due to high demand; apply early.
Equal Opportunity
Bath and North East Somerset Council is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We are a Disability Confident Employer and welcome applications from a wide range of backgrounds. Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
Grounds Maintenance Operative in Bath employer: BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL
Bath & North East Somerset Council is an exceptional employer dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for its community. With a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, the Council fosters a supportive work culture that values teamwork and personal development. Employees benefit from flexible working arrangements, competitive compensation for weekend and Bank Holiday shifts, and opportunities to grow within a dynamic environment focused on maintaining beautiful neighbourhoods and open spaces.
Contact Details:
BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Grounds Maintenance Operative in Bath
✨Get Hands-On at Local Events
Hit up local horticulture fairs, plant shows, and farmer’s markets. These gatherings are a goldmine for networking and usually attract employers looking for passionate candidates. Chat with the vendors and fellow enthusiasts; you never know who might know about a full-time opening at a place like BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL.
✨Join Gardening Clubs and Online Communities
Become part of local gardening clubs or online forums where like-minded folks share tips and job leads. These communities can often clue you in on upcoming vacancies. Remember, people in these groups often work in the industry and can help us get our foot in the door at places like BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL.
✨Show Off Your Green Thumb
Consider creating a public portfolio showcasing your gardening projects, designs, or any unique plants you've cultivated. A well-documented journey through your horticulture experiences can make you stand out when chasing full-time roles. It’s basically your way of shouting, 'Look at what I can do!' to potential employers.
✨Apply Early and Often!
The horticulture field can be competitive, especially for full-time roles. Keep an eye on seasonal hiring trends and don’t hesitate to apply as soon as positions open up. Check out our website regularly for openings at BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL; staying ahead of the game can give us the edge we need.
We think you need these skills to ace Grounds Maintenance Operative in Bath
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Green Thumb:In horticulture, it's all about showcasing your hands-on experience. Make sure your CV highlights any relevant gardening, landscaping, or plant care roles you've held. Also, don’t forget to mention any specific skills like plant identification or pest management that make you a great fit for the position at BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL.
Include Certifications and Training:If you've got any horticulture-related certifications, such as in organic gardening or landscape design, be sure to include them. This will set you apart from other applicants and show that you’re committed to expanding your knowledge in the field, which is crucial for a full-time role like Grounds Maintenance Operative.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect not just your passion for plants but also how your experience aligns with what BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL is looking for. Share specific examples of projects you've worked on or challenges you've overcome in previous horticultural roles to demonstrate your suitability for the full-time position.
Be Ready to Talk Numbers:When applying for a full-time role in horticulture, it's helpful to quantify your achievements. Did you increase crop yields or reduce waste in a previous job? Highlight these metrics in your CV to give hiring managers at BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL a clear picture of your capabilities!
How to prepare for a job interview at BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL
✨Get to Know Your Plants
Brush up on your plant knowledge! Be prepared to discuss specific species, their growth requirements, and potential pests. Remember, the role involves practical horticultural skills – so don’t be shy about sharing your hands-on experience with various plants and gardening techniques.
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
If you've worked on garden designs, landscaping projects, or community gardens, bring along a portfolio showcasing your work. Visuals speak a thousand words, and this will help us see your creativity and practical skills in action. Plus, don’t forget to have a few stories about challenges you faced and how you overcame them!
✨Be Ready for a Plant Quiz
Prepare for some technical questions related to horticulture! We may ask you about soil types, plant propagation methods, or pest management strategies. This helps us assess your depth of knowledge and problem-solving skills – so don’t skip the revision!
✨Passion for Sustainability
Horticulture often revolves around sustainability practices, so be ready to discuss any experience you have with eco-friendly gardening methods or sustainable designs. This role at BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL might have a focus on environmental impact, so showing your commitment could set you apart from other candidates.
