At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in delivering high-quality horticultural and grounds maintenance services.
- Company: Join the East Lothian Council team, dedicated to community service.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly pay and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Internal applicants only; driving licence needed for travel.
- Why this job: Make a difference in your community while working outdoors.
- Qualifications: SVQ Level 3 in Horticulture or equivalent experience required.
Hourly rate of pay: £16.70 - £17.84
Days and Hours of Work: Monday - Friday, 07:00-15:30
To start asap.
This post is open only to current employees of East Lothian Council (this includes agency/casual/locum staff who are currently undertaking work for us).
Job Details:
- To assist with front line service delivery in high amenity horticultural, grounds maintenance and related services.
Please download the Job Outline/Person Specification (available under 'Job Attachments') for the full range of tasks and duties associated with this job. You will need to refer to these in order to complete the application form. You must ensure you meet every 'essential' criteria stated on the Person Specification to be considered for interview.
The ‘East Lothian Way’ – values and behaviours we expect our employees to demonstrate in their everyday work. Should you be invited to interview, you may be asked questions based on these behaviours. Please refer to the document via the link to familiarise yourself with them.
Job Requirements:
- Relevant Qualifications SVQ Level 3 in Horticulture or related discipline (or able to demonstrate equivalent knowledge gained through previous employment/experience).
- Pesticide application certificate (PA1/PA2 and/or PA6 and/or PA9).
- Formal Health and Safety Training.
- Obtaining an SVQ Level 3 in Horticulture within 3 years of appointment to the post is expected.
- Driving Licence: As the duties of this role require you to effectively travel to successfully undertake the full remit of the role, you must hold a current driving licence and have access to a vehicle. (*Where a disability precludes you from obtaining a driving licence, ELC will take into account its responsibility to make reasonable adjustments to allow for your disability.)
Additional Information:
For additional East Lothian Council employment information please click on the following link: www.eastlothian.gov.uk/nonteachinginfo
If you have any difficulties creating an account on MyJobScotland or applying for this post please contact the MyJobScotland support team via this link https://www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/contact-us.
If you require further information about this vacancy, please call 01620 827868, or email us on recruitment@eastlothian.gov.uk.
Please note: We do not accept CV's (either electronically or by mail). All our vacancies must be applied for by fully completing the on-line application form. Although there is an ‘import data from my CV’ function on MyJobScotland, this only imports very limited data and should not be relied upon to complete the application form. If, for example, due to a disability, you are unable to complete the on-line application form you can contact us for a paper application via the telephone number or email address above.
Amenity Operative - Gardener (Qualified) - INTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLY - EAL12752 in North Berwick employer: East Lothian Council
East Lothian Council is an exceptional employer that values its employees and fosters a supportive work culture. With competitive pay rates and a commitment to employee development, including opportunities for further qualifications in horticulture, staff can thrive in their roles while contributing to the beautification of the community. Working in East Lothian offers the unique advantage of engaging with nature in a picturesque environment, making it a rewarding place for those passionate about horticulture and grounds maintenance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Amenity Operative - Gardener (Qualified) - INTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLY - EAL12752 in North Berwick
✨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 East Lothian 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 East Lothian 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 East Lothian Council; staying ahead of the game can give us the edge we need.
We think you need these skills to ace Amenity Operative - Gardener (Qualified) - INTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLY - EAL12752 in North Berwick
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 East Lothian 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 Amenity Operative - Gardener (Qualified) - INTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLY - EAL12752.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect not just your passion for plants but also how your experience aligns with what East Lothian 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 East Lothian Council a clear picture of your capabilities!
How to prepare for a job interview at East Lothian 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 East Lothian Council might have a focus on environmental impact, so showing your commitment could set you apart from other candidates.
