At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain parks, gardens, and public spaces to create clean and welcoming environments.
- Company: Join Slough Borough Council, dedicated to community and environmental improvement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 26-33 days leave, pension scheme, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for career growth and personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing practical skills.
- Qualifications: Practical, reliable, and motivated individuals with a passion for outdoor work.
Directorate: Regeneration, Environment and Planning
Pay Level: 5, £30,160-£32,118 (fully inclusive of Local Weighting Allowance)
Contract Type: Permanent
Working Hours: 37 hours per week
Location: Slough Cemetery (Cross site)
DBS requirement: Basic
Number of Hires: 4
We are reviewing applications on a rolling basis. Interviews will be held on a rolling basis commencing from the week of 14th September 2026.
What you’ll be doing:
- Maintaining parks, gardens, open spaces, roadsides and commercial premises to a high standard.
- Using grounds maintenance tools, equipment, plant and vehicles safely and responsibly.
- Supporting a safe working environment for colleagues, residents, visitors and road users.
- Keeping accurate records and updating work progress using handheld or in-cab devices.
- Working courteously with the public and helping resolve issues on site with professionalism.
- Contributing ideas to improve working methods, schedules and service delivery.
Our Council: Our vision is to make a difference to our communities and environment. Every employee contributes to services for local people, directly or by supporting colleagues. We celebrate diversity and want residents to enjoy fulfilling, prosperous and healthy lives.
What we offer:
- 26 days’ annual leave, rising to 30 days after 2 years and 33 days after 5 years’ service.
- The Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Wellbeing initiatives and employee networks that help us celebrate and promote equality.
- Tax-free childcare and childcare services.
- Season ticket loan to help with rail or bus travel to and from work.
Accessibility and Support: Slough Borough Council is an inclusive employer. If you need support during the application process or reasonable adjustments for interview, please contact our Recruitment Team: Recruitment@slough.gov.uk. Information shared will be treated confidentially and used only to provide appropriate support throughout recruitment and beyond.
Right to Work and Checks: Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. If you require sponsorship, please note that we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role. We are committed to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults. Appointments are subject to satisfactory pre‑employment checks.
How we recruit at Slough Borough Council: Our 8 Core Skills reflect what we value and will form part of your interview.
We look forward to hearing from you! Join Slough Borough Council and help accelerate our transformation and growth.
Grounds Maintenance Semi-Skilled Operative in Slough employer: Slough
Slough Borough Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment where your contributions are valued. With a strong focus on community engagement through the Pride in Place programme, employees have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while enjoying flexible working arrangements, generous leave entitlements, and a commitment to employee wellbeing and professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Grounds Maintenance Semi-Skilled Operative in Slough
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace Grounds Maintenance Semi-Skilled Operative in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch Slough's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at Slough. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at Slough
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at Slough.
