Grounds Maintenance Operative/Van Leader

At Key Maintenance Group, we are looking for a Grounds Maintenance Van Leader to become the customer-facing champion for the sites they manage.

This role is about much more than simply cutting grass and maintaining landscapes.

We are looking for someone who takes pride in their work, understands the importance of presentation, and wants to play a key role in delivering exceptional service to our clients.

As a Van Leader, you will be responsible for leading a small team of 1-2 operatives, ensuring all work is completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest possible standard.

You will take ownership of your sites, build positive relationships with clients, and ensure specifications are not only met but exceeded wherever possible.

Our customers and their sites are our biggest testimonials.

The better our sites look, the stronger our reputation becomes, and the faster we grow.

We are looking for forward-thinking individuals who want to grow with us, develop their skills, and create opportunities for themselves within a fast-moving and ambitious company.

Key Responsibilities

• Service Delivery & Site Ownership
• Lead and participate in day-to-day grounds maintenance activities across assigned sites.
• Take ownership of the sites under your management and ensure they are maintained to an exceptional standard.
• Deliver all works in accordance with client specifications and company standards.
• Identify opportunities to improve site presentation and proactively suggest improvements.
• Carry out regular quality checks to ensure work standards remain consistently high.
• Ensure sites remain safe, tidy, and professional throughout all visits.
• Customer Service & Client Relationships
• Act as the primary on-site contact for clients and site representatives.
• Build positive and professional relationships with customers.
• Respond to client requests and feedback in a professional manner.
• Report any concerns, additional work opportunities, or client requests to management.
• Represent Key Maintenance Group professionally at all times.
• Lead, motivate, and support a team of 1-2 operatives.
• Allocate daily tasks and ensure workloads are completed efficiently.
• Provide guidance, coaching, and support to team members.
• Assist with the training and onboarding of new employees.
• Promote a positive team culture focused on quality, safety, and customer service.
• Health, Safety & Compliance
• Ensure all work is completed in accordance with company policies, Risk Assessments, Method Statements, and relevant legislation.
• Conduct daily equipment and vehicle checks.
• Ensure correct use of PPE, machinery, and equipment.
• Report hazards, incidents, near misses, and safety concerns promptly.
• Maintain high standards of housekeeping on all sites.
• Administration & Reporting
• Complete daily job records and site documentation using company systems.
• Record completed works, variations, and any issues affecting service delivery.
• Monitor equipment condition and report maintenance requirements.
• Assist the Supervisor with audits, inspections, and compliance checks.
• Ensure all required paperwork is completed accurately and on time.

Skills & Experience Required

• Previous grounds maintenance, landscaping, or horticultural experience.
• Experience leading or supervising a small team.
• Good understanding of grounds maintenance equipment and safe working practices.
• Full UK Driving Licence.
• Strong organisational and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and make decisions on site.
• Willingness to undertake an Enhanced DBS Check.
• PA1 / PA6 Pesticide Qualifications.
• NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Horticulture or equivalent.
• First Aid at Work Qualification.
• Experience working on schools, commercial sites, or local authority contracts.
• Experience completing site audits, inspections, or RAMS.
• Personal Attributes

We are looking for someone who

• Takes pride in the appearance of their sites.
• Leads by example.
• Is proactive and solution-focused.
• Has a strong work ethic and positive attitude.
• Wants to continuously improve themselves and those around them.
• Understands that excellent service delivery drives business growth.
• Is ambitious and wants to progress within a growing company.
• Summer Season
• Monday to Friday
• Winter Season
• Typically Tuesday to Friday (4-day working week)
• Additional overtime opportunities may be available through winter gritting and emergency weather response operations.
• Outdoor working in all weather conditions.
• Uniform and PPE provided.
• Reporting To
• Grounds Maintenance Supervisor

Why Join Key Maintenance Group?

We are a growing company with ambitious plans for the future. We believe in giving our people responsibility, ownership, and opportunities to develop.

This role is ideal for someone who wants more than just a job.

We are looking for leaders who want to build a career, help shape the future of the business, and grow alongside the company.

If you are passionate about delivering outstanding service, take pride in your work, and want the opportunity to progress within a supportive and growing business, we’d love to hear from you.

#J-18808-Ljbffr