Grounds Machine Operator

Machine Operator (Landscaping)

Location: Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK, Burnaston, Derby

Reports To: Landscaping Supervisor / Landscaping Manager

Grade: Operative

Job Purpose

To support the delivery of high-quality landscaping and grounds maintenance services across the Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK site at Burnaston.

The role combines traditional landscaping and grounds maintenance activities with the operation of specialist plant and machinery. The successful candidate will be an experienced landscaper who wishes to develop their skills and undertake training in the operation of tractors, excavators, and associated equipment.

Full training and certification will be provided for the operation of specialist machinery.

The role supports the maintenance of a complex 580-acre manufacturing site incorporating production facilities, roads, balancing lakes, nature reserves, woodland, meadows, car parks, landscaped areas, and ecologically sensitive habitats.

Key Responsibilities

• Grounds Maintenance
  • Carry out routine landscaping and grounds maintenance activities including:
    • Grass cutting
    • Hedge trimming
    • Shrub and border maintenance
    • Weed control
    • Leaf clearance
    • Litter picking
    • Meadow management
    • Tree maintenance support
    • General site presentation activities
  • Complete work in accordance with planned maintenance schedules and client requirements.
  • Ensure all areas are maintained to the highest standards of safety, quality, and appearance.
• Machinery Operation
  • Following appropriate training and authorisation:
  • Operate tractors and associated attachments.
  • Operate excavators for landscaping and environmental works.
  • Assist with lake, drainage, and ditch maintenance activities.
  • Support meadow management and habitat creation projects.
  • Undertake ground preparation and minor earth-moving activities.
  • Carry out routine equipment inspections and basic maintenance checks.
  • Safely transport equipment and materials around the site.
• Winter Maintenance
  • Participate in winter maintenance operations including:
    • Gritting
    • Snow clearance
    • Ice prevention works
    • Winter emergency response activities
  • Support winter standby and seasonal operational requirements as necessary.
• Health, Safety and Environment
  • Always work in accordance with Mitie and Toyota health and safety requirements.
  • Follow all risk assessments, method statements, and safe systems of work.
  • Use all PPE and equipment correctly.
  • Report accidents, near misses, equipment defects, and environmental concerns.
  • Promote a positive safety culture across the contract.
  • Ensure all machinery is operated safely and within company procedures.
• Environmental and Biodiversity Responsibilities
  • Support Toyota's biodiversity and environmental objectives.
  • Assist in the maintenance of meadows, woodland, lakes, and ecological habitats.
  • Minimise environmental impact through responsible working practices.
  • Contribute to sustainability initiatives and habitat improvement programmes.
  • Support the contract's commitment to environmentally sensitive landscape management.
• Customer Service
  • Represent Mitie professionally at all times.
  • Maintain positive working relationships with Toyota stakeholders.
  • Respond professionally to requests and enquiries.
  • Deliver excellent standards of customer service and site presentation.

Knowledge, Skills and ExperienceEssential

• Previous landscaping or grounds maintenance experience.
• Experience operating landscaping equipment such as mowers, strimmers, hedge cutters, leaf blowers, and similar machinery.
• Full UK Driving Licence.
• Good understanding of health and safety requirements in an outdoor working environment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn new skills.

Desirable

• Experience of operating tractors, excavators, or other plant machinery.
• Experience working on industrial, manufacturing, or large commercial sites.
• PA1 / PA6 qualifications.
• Trailer towing experience.
• Knowledge of biodiversity, conservation, or habitat management.
• First Aid qualification.

Please note: Existing tractor or excavator licences are not essential. Full training and certification will be provided for the right candidate.

Personal Attributes

• Reliable and dependable.
• Strong work ethic.
• Positive and enthusiastic approach.
• Keen to learn and develop new skills.
• Flexible and adaptable.
• Team focused.
• Takes pride in delivering high-quality work.
• Committed to safety and continuous improvement.

Career Development

This role is designed for experienced landscaping professionals looking to expand their skills and progress their careers. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to receive formal training and certification in:

• Tractor operation
• Excavator operation
• Specialist landscaping machinery
• Winter maintenance equipment
• Biodiversity and environmental management activities

This provides a clear development pathway towards senior machine operator, team leader, or supervisory roles within the landscaping operation.