Static Gardener

A GC1 is an experienced horticulturist who usually works in a mobile role or at a static site and is responsible for the maintenance of a number of specific plots within a geographical region. A GC1 carries out gardening maintenance and renovation work to the standards of excellence as set by the Commission, and according to horticultural policies and procedures. This is a practical role, requiring maintenance craft skills to undertake a wide range of duties. These include turf culture, headstone border maintenance and planting, pest control, machinery operation and maintenance, tree care, and the care of ornamental features.

Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities

• Undertaking practical horticultural maintenance, renovation work and caretaking duties, including mowing, edging, hedge cutting, weeding, pruning and pesticide application.
• Planning and organising daily workload, appropriate to each site, including compiling stock order for plants, chemicals, fertilisers, PPE and machinery.
• Responsible for the safe operation, care, day to day maintenance and repair of all work equipment to a set standard, including team vehicles.
• Reporting to Line Management any structural defects noted, or any development in the surroundings or environment of cemeteries and memorials observed during maintenance duties.
• Observing the Commission’s safety procedures and safe working practices, ensuring that PPE is used appropriately, and that the Commission’s H&S policies, procedures and safety instructions are adhered to at all times.
• Undertaking H&S risk assessments in accordance with CWGC processes and priorities.
• Familiar with, and competent in undertaking a number of routine administrative duties, including the use of IT, smart phones and tablet based technology.
• Undertaking any other duties which may reasonably be regarded as within the nature of the role.
• Cross function work within the region; working with Skilled Maintenance Crafts person (SMC) on renovation work.
• Representation of the Commission at ceremonies.
• Provision of advice/direction and other information to Cemetery visitors/members of the public, helping them locate war graves.

Job Functional Knowledge

Supporting the GC1iC with the execution and co-ordination of Horticulture Standards in the cemeteries, plots and memorials, and in other countries UKNA operations, if required.

Problem Solving

Identifying and presenting solutions to problems, knowing when to elevate when necessary.

Nature of Impact

Awareness of how role integrates into the team, region and area.

Area of Impact

UKNA, primarily North Region.

Interpersonal Skills

Able to communicate effectively with colleagues at all levels.

Job Scope Requirements

Education and Knowledge – Essential

• NVQ Level 2 in Amenity Horticulture or equivalent is desirable.
• Practical experience of horticultural/gardening work.
• A good level of computer literacy or the ability to learn quickly.

Skills and Abilities

• Good craft gardening skills.
• Ability to work alone and using their initiative, as well part of a team.
• Effective communication and listening skills.
• Decision making skills and the ability to use own initiative, to resolve issues.
• Takes responsibility for action.
• Good organisational and time management skills.
• Sense of service delivery.
• Good resource management.
• Awareness of the aims and objectives of the organisation.

Everyone who works for us, or with us, shares our Values, which are formed around our concept of CARE (Commitment, Ambition, Respect and Excellence). We are proud and committed to ensuring we bring this to life every day, for ourselves, each other and those who lost their lives.

Health and Safety responsibility for self.