At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage daily operations of parks and recreational facilities while engaging with the community.
- Company: Join Stafford Borough and Cannock Chase District Councils, committed to community wellbeing and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and access to health and wellbeing schemes.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for training and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while gaining valuable experience and skills.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths, customer service experience, and good IT skills required.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
The role of the Open Spaces Officer will be to manage the daily operational requirements of the sporting and recreational facilities within Westbridge Park, Riverway 3G, Victoria Park and Stonefield Park. From the start you will receive a warm welcome through an induction which will give you the opportunity to go through your role and responsibilities, terms of employment, learn about some of our key policies and procedures as well as provide you with some practical information to make the transition into your new role as smooth and effective as possible.
We recognise that one approach does not fit all so we use a range of operational, developmental and statutory opportunities together with a combination of approaches and techniques to encourage and develop individual learning and growth. Employee Reviews are completed on a regular basis and coaching and mentoring is available to develop individual skills, knowledge and confidence. E-learning and 'on the job' training are used to support personal responsibility and a blended approach to learning.
When recruiting we shortlist using the information supplied on the application form only; personal information forms no part of the shortlisting process ensuring that decisions relating to recruitment are made on a purely objective basis relating to skills, ability and experience. Any tests conducted as part of the interview process are designed to be non-discriminatory and relate purely to the demands of the role. We are a Disability Confident Employer; we ensure that any disabled candidate meeting the essential criteria is guaranteed an interview. A local veteran making the first transition from military to civilian employment is also guaranteed an interview where the essential criteria are met.
We are committed to supporting our employees in maintaining their health and wellbeing and have developed a range of resources and benefits to help us do so. Our support for employees is accredited by national initiatives such as Mindful Employer (Stafford Borough Council) and Time to Change (Cannock Chase District Council).
Requirements:
- Educated to GCSE level in English and Maths (A-C) or equivalent
- Demonstrate previous experience working directly with the public
- Excellent customer care experience
- Can communicate effectively both orally and in writing
- Competent IT skills, particularly Microsoft packages
- The ability to be mobile to patrol the parks and undertake basic facility maintenance
- The ability to work in all the above locations, with a Full and Valid UK driving licence and access to a vehicle
- The hours will be worked on an annualised basis and ability to participate in shift patterns which will include weekdays, evenings, weekends, and bank holidays (payment for which is included in the rate of pay)
Stafford Borough and Cannock Chase District Council are neighbouring authorities; working closely together and sharing a number of services to provide high quality, cost effective services for their residents, while retaining their own distinct priorities and identity. Stafford Borough Council is a proactive and forward-thinking authority with big ambitions. A Council that is financially resilient, sustainable and delivering good value for money, Stafford Borough Council evolves to meet the changing needs of our community.
Cannock Chase District Council serves a population of around 100,000 residents. The District covers over 30 square-miles of southern Staffordshire, which includes 3 main town centres: Cannock, Hednesford and Rugeley. Cannock Chase is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is popular with local residents as well as tourists. Our ambition is to make a difference to local people's lives. In our 5 year Corporate Plan (2018-2023) we have 2 new key priorities which are: 'Promote Prosperity' and 'Community Wellbeing', which aim to improve the opportunities, wellbeing and quality of life of our communities.
Cannock Chase District Council is committed to Equality & Diversity and our employees enable us to reach our goals and deliver our services to a high standard. We strive to recruit dynamic individuals who are seeking rewarding and satisfying job opportunities. Working for us is not just a job; you will be playing a part in serving our communities; we are very much one team where everyone's contribution is valued.
We have a range of benefits which have been designed to make the council a positive, supportive and enjoyable place to work. These include:
- A friendly, supportive and positive working environment
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme
- Generous annual leave entitlements
- Flexible working, where applicable to the post
- Family friendly policies
- Employee health and wellbeing schemes such as cycle to work and healthcare schemes
- Positive working relationships with trade unions
- Training and development opportunities
- Employee support services
- Occupational sick pay scheme
Seasonal Open Space Officers employer: Stafford Borough & Cannock Chase District Councils
Stafford Borough Council and Cannock Chase District Council are exceptional employers, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where every team member's contribution is valued. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, professional development, and flexible working arrangements, you will have the opportunity to grow your skills while making a meaningful impact in the community. Join us in creating award-winning parks and open spaces, and enjoy the benefits of a friendly workplace that prioritises health and happiness.
Contact Details:
Stafford Borough & Cannock Chase District Councils Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Seasonal Open Space Officers
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the parks and facilities you'll be managing! Spend some time visiting Westbridge Park, Riverway 3G, Victoria Park, and Stonefield Park. Familiarising yourself with the locations will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer care skills! Since this role involves working directly with the public, think of scenarios where you might need to handle queries or complaints. Role-playing these situations with a friend can boost your confidence and communication skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your IT skills, especially with Microsoft packages. If you're not already comfortable with them, consider taking a quick online course or tutorial. Being tech-savvy will definitely give you an edge in managing operational requirements.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows that you’re proactive and keen on joining our team. Don’t forget to highlight your relevant experience and skills in your application!
We think you need these skills to ace Seasonal Open Space Officers
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your passion for working with the public and your love for parks and open spaces.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills. If you've got customer care experience or have worked in similar roles, shout about it! We’re looking for those who can communicate effectively and manage facilities.
Keep It Clear and Concise:We appreciate clarity, so keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points if needed, and make sure to proofread for any typos or errors. A clean application shows attention to detail!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our values right there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Stafford Borough & Cannock Chase District Councils
✨Know Your Parks
Familiarise yourself with the parks and recreational facilities you'll be managing. Research their history, current events, and any community initiatives. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you answer questions about how you would enhance these spaces.
✨Customer Care is Key
Since excellent customer care experience is essential, think of specific examples from your past roles where you provided outstanding service. Be ready to discuss how you handled difficult situations or went above and beyond for customers.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your effective communication skills both orally and in writing. You might be asked to explain how you would communicate with the public or write reports. Practise clear and concise responses to common interview questions.
✨Be Ready for Practical Tests
As part of the interview process, there may be practical tests related to the demands of the role. Brush up on basic facility maintenance tasks and be prepared to showcase your IT skills, especially with Microsoft packages. This will help you stand out as a capable candidate.
