At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain estates by delivering grounds maintenance, waste removal, and cleaning services.
- Company: Join a supportive team at SettleParadigm, dedicated to community well-being.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous holiday, health cash plan, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for training and volunteering.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in grounds maintenance and a full clean driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 29397 - 29397 £ per year.
Salary: £29,397 + Excellent Benefits
Location of office: Baldock, Letchworth Garden City
Location of work: Various sites across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire
Contract: Permanent
We are looking for an Estates Operative to help keep our estates clean, safe and welcoming for our residents. This role is an important part of our Estate Services team, delivering grounds maintenance, bulk waste removal and cleaning services across our communities. You will work both independently and as part of a team, using your skills, initiative and customer-focused approach to maintain high standards across our estates.
The Estate Services team operates remotely across our geographical areas, delivering services that directly impact the land we manage and the residents who live there. This includes grounds maintenance, bulk waste removal, cleaning and wider estate-based tasks.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Deliver high-quality grounds maintenance, litter picking and bulk waste removal services
- Carry out grass cutting, hedge maintenance, lawn edging, moss clearance, pruning, plant and shrub maintenance, spraying and gritting
- Support land clearance for areas identified for development
- Remove bulk waste and assist in identifying responsible parties where re-charging may be appropriate
- Work with residents to ensure estate issues are reported promptly
- Complete scheduled inspections and checks to ensure estates remain safe and well maintained
- Work closely with colleagues to deliver a consistent and reliable service
- Support up-cycling and community give-back days
- Ensure all work is carried out safely and in line with procedures
- Complete other site-based or resident-related tasks as required
What we’re looking for
- Experience in grounds maintenance or estate services
- Knowledge of health and safety at work
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team
- A full clean driving licence
- Physical fitness to carry out manual handling tasks
- Ability to identify risks, hazards and support emergency planning
- Good communication skills
Nice To Haves
- Willingness to support social purpose goals and community-focused activities
- Flexibility to work additional hours or respond to emergency call-outs when required
- Desire to develop skills in horticulture and broaden experience
- PA1 / PA6a spraying certification
- Experience towing trailers
- A recognised horticultural qualification
Benefits
- Annual salary: £29,397 per annum
- 25 days holiday, increasing with service, plus Christmas closure and buy options
- Generous pension scheme – up to 9.5% employer contribution via salary sacrifice
- Family-friendly leave: Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave
- Health cash plan – claim up to £1,800 for everyday health costs (plus free kids’ cover)
- Life cover and income protection
- Flexible working – hybrid options, modern offices, free parking & EV charging
And that’s just the beginning! We’re also thrilled to provide:
- Mental Health First Aiders available to support
- Car leasing via salary sacrifice (for permanent colleagues subject to conditions)
- Funded training, qualifications & apprenticeships
- 3 paid volunteering days in the local communities
- Peer-recognition rewards platform
- Paid professional subscription (one per year)
Our Commitment
We are committed to creating an inclusive workforce, by reflecting and representing the diversity of the communities we serve. We would like to encourage applications from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds; people who identify as disabled, neurodiverse, members of the LGBTQ+ community and people from underrepresented groups.
Accessibility and Adjustments
We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll always endeavour to be as accommodating as possible. Please let us know in advance of any suitable arrangements required. Due to the nature of some of our roles involving work with vulnerable members of society, this post may be subject to a basic or enhanced Criminal Disclosure, which will be carried out when a conditional offer is made. Please ensure you fully answer the questions on the application form.
Closing Date: 31/08/2026
We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the closing date should we find a suitable candidate.
Estates Operative in Letchworth employer: SettleParadigm
SettleParadigm is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees are valued and encouraged to grow. With a strong commitment to social purpose, we offer competitive salaries, generous benefits, and opportunities for professional development, all while working in a hybrid model that promotes work-life balance. Join us in making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve, as we strive to build more affordable homes and enhance the quality of life for our residents.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Estates Operative in Letchworth
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like SettleParadigm often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Estates Operative in Letchworth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what SettleParadigm does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at SettleParadigm
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with SettleParadigm will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at SettleParadigm.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with SettleParadigm.
