At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a mobile team maintaining parks, sports fields, and housing sites.
- Company: Runnymede Borough Council, committed to excellent grounds maintenance.
- Benefits: 29 days leave, health insurance, training opportunities, and a great pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible shifts and a supportive team environment await you!
- Why this job: Make a difference in your community while working outdoors and developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in horticulture and basic machinery maintenance preferred.
The predicted salary is between 25750 - 30089 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to join Runnymede Borough Council as we continue our positive work in the successful provision of grounds maintenance. As a Grounds Person/Gardener, you will work as part of a mobile team performing a diverse role in our park, housing sites, fine turf areas and sports fields.
The Grounds Person/Gardener role includes but is not limited to the following tasks:
- Participate in flexible (early/late shift) working patterns to accommodate the demands of the service.
- Maintain and take responsibility for your equipment, which includes daily checks and cleaning of equipment.
- Operate all machinery, tools and equipment in a safe and appropriate manner in accordance with manufacturers' recommendations.
- Recycle as much waste arisings as possible.
- Follow RBC health and safety policies including wearing PPE and other RBC uniform.
- Undertake the application of pesticides in accordance with manufacturers' recommended instructions (full training provided to cover PA1 and PA6).
- Drive council vehicles as required adhering to the Law and the Councils Drivers Handbook.
Benefits include:
- 29 days annual leave, plus 8 days bank holidays.
- Excellent Pension Scheme.
- Free Parking.
- Training and development opportunities.
- Payment of one professional membership per annum.
- Cycle to work + further related discounts.
- Season ticket loan.
- Health insurance plan after 1 year’s service / Dental after 3 years’ service.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
Please note that Runnymede Borough Council is currently undertaking a pay and grading review, which is expected to be implemented during the summer. The successful applicant will be appointed under the Council’s current grading and salary structure and, following implementation of the new framework, will be assimilated into the revised pay structure in line with all existing employees. This grading in the new pay structure for this role will be RBC1-2 with a salary range of £25,750 - £30,089.
About You: We are looking for a skilled and passionate individual to join our team who can provide grounds maintenance/gardening services in Runnymede. We are looking for exceptional candidates with a range of skills including:
- Experience of basic plant/machine maintenance, as well as the ability to utilise a ride on mower and chainsaw.
- Good health and safety knowledge along with the ability to undertake physically demanding work where chemicals have been used.
- Able to work to tight deadlines as well as verbally communicate effectively and use technology.
- Work as part of a team as well as use their own initiative.
- Knowledge of relevant horticultural education as well as a Level 2 Technical Certificate in Horticulture, PA1 and PA6 spraying certificates, and Level 3 Advanced Technical Certificate in Horticulture would be desirable.
- Significant experience in horticulture and grounds maintenance.
Grounds Person/Gardener in Chertsey employer: Runnymede
Runnymede Borough Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional development. With generous benefits such as 29 days of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for training, employees can thrive in their roles while contributing to the community's green spaces. The council's commitment to flexible working patterns and health initiatives makes it an attractive place for those seeking meaningful employment in grounds maintenance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Grounds Person/Gardener in Chertsey
✨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 Runnymede.
✨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 Runnymede.
✨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 Runnymede; staying ahead of the game can give us the edge we need.
We think you need these skills to ace Grounds Person/Gardener in Chertsey
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 Runnymede.
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 Grounds Person/Gardener.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect not just your passion for plants but also how your experience aligns with what Runnymede 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 Runnymede a clear picture of your capabilities!
How to prepare for a job interview at Runnymede
✨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 Runnymede might have a focus on environmental impact, so showing your commitment could set you apart from other candidates.
