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- Tasks: Help maintain beautiful park gardens and landscapes for visitors to enjoy.
- Company: Join RZSS, a leading conservation charity dedicated to wildlife and habitat protection.
- Benefits: Enjoy 34 days annual leave, discounts, healthcare plans, and free entry to zoos.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team making a positive impact on the environment.
- Qualifications: SVQ level 1 or equivalent experience in horticulture or landscaping required.
- Other info: Full-time role with opportunities for growth and development in a vibrant setting.
The predicted salary is between 18600 - 26000 £ per year.
The role involves assisting in the maintenance of park gardens including the nursery and landscape, enclosure areas, facilities and infrastructure owned by the RZSS in line with the Gardens team’s procedures and ongoing site development plans in support of RZSS’ vision and mission. Providing high standards of general maintenance to ensure that all areas of the site are safe and well presented for our visitors. This is a full time (37.5 hours per week) and permanent role.
Some of the things you’ll do:
- Assist with the daily maintenance of the sites gardens and landscapes to agreed standards, e.g. keeping gardens, grounds and landscaping clean, in good state of repair to agreed standards and supporting construction projects, e.g. new enclosures.
- Assist with the co-ordination of a range of horticultural activities (e.g. maintaining appearance of grounds, up-keep of the lawns, pathways, entrances of site, leaf sweeping, weeding, grass cutting and sweeping the perimeters) that involve other sections and departments.
- Conduct routine cleaning, inspection and maintenance of assigned small plant and vehicles according to the agreed transport policy and best practice.
- Recommend to your manager cost-effective opportunities to minimise the impact of your department and RZSS’ operations on the environment.
- Provide supporting role to Events Team regarding special event set up and taken down.
What we’re looking for:
- You’ll have a relevant SVQ level 1 qualification or equivalent qualification or experience.
- Have a basic understanding of horticultural practice.
- Practical experience in a horticultural and or landscaping activity.
- Able to demonstrate and set a good example of health and safety practice to others.
What you’ll get in return:
- Starting salary of £23,400 per annum pro rata.
- 37.5hr working week.
- 34 days annual leave (pro rata).
- Discount in both retail/catering.
- Access to a healthcare plan.
- Employer contributory pension scheme.
- You will receive a staff membership which will give you (and family/friends) free (and discounted) entry to both the Highland Wildlife Park and Edinburgh Zoo as well as a number of other Zoos across the UK.
We offer a range of great benefits which can be found at rzss.org.uk/about-rzss/staff-benefits.
Please note that shortlisting of applications and interviews for this position will take place while the advert is live. The advert will close once a successful candidate has been found. Candidates are therefore encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Please see the role profile for further information on what the role involves and essential/desirable criteria.
Groundsperson employer: The Royal Zoological Society Of Scotland
Contact Detail:
The Royal Zoological Society Of Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Groundsperson
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the RZSS's vision and mission. Understanding their goals will help you align your answers during interviews and demonstrate your commitment to their objectives.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain practical experience in horticulture or landscaping before applying. Volunteering at local parks or gardens can provide you with hands-on skills that will make you stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the horticultural field. Attend local gardening events or workshops to meet people who might provide insights or even referrals for the Groundsperson role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss health and safety practices during your interview. Being able to articulate how you prioritise safety in your work will show that you are responsible and aware of best practices.
We think you need these skills to ace Groundsperson
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Groundsperson position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with what RZSS is looking for.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any practical experience you have in horticulture or landscaping. Mention specific tasks you've performed that relate to the daily maintenance of gardens and landscapes.
Showcase Qualifications: If you have an SVQ level 1 qualification or equivalent, make sure to mention it prominently in your application. If you lack formal qualifications, focus on your hands-on experience and understanding of horticultural practices.
Demonstrate Health and Safety Awareness: Since health and safety is a key aspect of the role, include examples in your application that demonstrate your commitment to safe working practices. This could be from previous jobs or training you've received.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Royal Zoological Society Of Scotland
✨Know Your Horticultural Basics
Brush up on your knowledge of horticultural practices. Be prepared to discuss your understanding of plant care, maintenance techniques, and any relevant experience you have in landscaping. This will show your passion for the role and your ability to contribute effectively.
✨Demonstrate Safety Awareness
Since health and safety is crucial in this role, be ready to talk about how you prioritise safety in your work. Share examples of how you've implemented safety practices in previous jobs or during your training, as this will highlight your commitment to maintaining a safe environment.
✨Showcase Your Teamwork Skills
The role involves working with various departments and teams. Prepare to discuss your experience in collaborative settings, how you communicate with others, and any specific instances where you contributed to a team project. This will demonstrate your ability to work well with others.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the role, the team, or the organisation's future projects. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you. It also gives you a chance to engage with the interviewer on a deeper level.
