Open Spaces Officer

Open Spaces Officer

Part-Time 12000 - 16000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Maintain parks, ensure play equipment safety, and keep public spaces clean and inviting.
  • Company: Join a dedicated Environmental Services team focused on enhancing community spaces.
  • Benefits: Flexible 15-hour weekend role with opportunities to make a difference in your community.
  • Other info: Great chance to gain experience while working outdoors and engaging with the community.
  • Why this job: Perfect for nature lovers wanting to contribute to local parks and play areas.
  • Qualifications: Full UK Driving License and Level 2 qualification in Horticulture or related field.

The predicted salary is between 12000 - 16000 £ per year.

We have an exciting role on offer within our Environmental Services as an Open Spaces Officer. We are looking to recruit self-motivated individuals to join our expanding Parks team.

To be successful in this role you need a full UK Driving License and a minimum of Level 2 qualification. You will also need to have relevant qualifications and/or experience in an appropriate area of work (Horticulture and/or Cleansing Services).

Your responsibilities will include:

  • Litter picking
  • Emptying bins
  • Ensuring our play equipment is fit and safe to use by the public
  • Some gardening duties
  • Carrying out play area inspections
  • Ensuring our park and play areas are presented to the public in the best condition possible

Please note this is a 15 hours per week post, working weekends only.

If this is you, this may be the opportunity you are looking for!

If you would like to talk through this opportunity further, please contact Craig Holmes – Open Spaces Manager at Craig_Holmes@middlesbrough.gov.uk or call 01642 515654.

Open Spaces Officer employer: Middlesbrough Council

Join our dedicated team as an Open Spaces Officer, where you will play a vital role in maintaining the beauty and safety of our parks. We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive work culture that values employee growth, offering training opportunities and a chance to make a real difference in the community. With flexible weekend hours and a focus on environmental stewardship, this position is perfect for those looking to contribute meaningfully while enjoying a balanced work-life schedule.

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Contact Details:

Middlesbrough Council Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Open Spaces Officer

Get Involved with Local Gardening Groups

Join local horticulture clubs or community gardens. It's a fantastic way to meet people in the industry, learn about available part-time opportunities, and get tips on what local businesses like Middlesbrough Council are looking for.

Attend Horticulture Fairs and Events

Keep an eye out for gardening fairs, farmers’ markets, or plant festivals in your area. Not only can you learn a lot, but these events often have job boards or local employers looking to hire part-time help.

Leverage Social Media for Opportunities

Follow local horticulture accounts on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. There are often postings about part-time jobs that might not make it to traditional job boards, plus you can connect with other enthusiasts who might have the inside scoop on openings at places like Middlesbrough Council.

Tap into Your University’s Resources

If you're a student, your university might have links with local horticulture firms. Check out your career services; they might list part-time opportunities with companies like Middlesbrough Council that are specifically looking for students eager to gain experience.

We think you need these skills to ace Open Spaces Officer

Full UK Driving License
Level 2 Qualification
Horticulture Knowledge
Cleansing Services Experience
Litter Picking
Play Equipment Inspection
Gardening Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Green Thumb:When applying for a part-time job in horticulture at Middlesbrough Council, make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have with plants, gardening, or landscape maintenance. If you've got a knack for nurturing plants or knowledge about different species, don’t keep it a secret—let it shine in your CV!

Include Certifications and Courses:If you've completed any horticulture-related certifications or courses, be sure to list them in your application. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you're serious about your passion for plants. If you’ve got any coursework on plant biology or sustainable practices, include that too!

Tailor Your Cover Letter to Middlesbrough Council:In your cover letter, make sure to express why you want to work specifically with Middlesbrough Council. Are they known for their beautiful gardens or innovative horticultural practices? Mention these points and how they resonate with your own interests and experiences—this shows genuine enthusiasm and helps you stand out.

Flexibility Matters:Since you're aiming for a part-time role, emphasise your availability in your application. Whether you can work weekends, evenings, or even during peak seasons, make it clear! Flexibility can be a huge plus, so highlight how you can fit into the team at Middlesbrough Council and support their needs.

How to prepare for a job interview at Middlesbrough Council

Know Your Plants

As we're diving into horticulture, it’s crucial to brush up on your plant knowledge. Be ready to discuss different species, their care requirements, and maybe even tackle some plant identification questions. Having a few examples of your past gardening experiences or plant projects can really show your passion and expertise!

Hands-On Experience Matters

Since this is a part-time gig, your practical skills might be just as important as your theoretical knowledge. Think about any previous jobs, volunteer work, or personal projects related to gardening or landscaping. Highlight those experiences in your answers – showing what you've physically done can leave a strong impression.

Seasonal Awareness is Key

In horticulture, understanding the seasons and how they affect plant behaviour is essential. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach gardening tasks at different times of the year, and share your approach to seasonal planting or maintenance strategies – it'll show your practical understanding of the field!

Bring Your Tools (and Portfolio!)

If you have a portfolio showcasing your previous work, such as photos of gardens you've designed or maintained, definitely bring it along. For a part-time role, sharing your creative ideas and how you use tools for different tasks can set you apart. It's about showing how you can bring value to Middlesbrough Council with your unique skills and passion!