At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Grounds Team to maintain beautiful outdoor spaces and ensure a welcoming environment.
- Company: Be part of Northumbria University, a top-ranked institution with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, generous holidays, and excellent pension schemes.
- Other info: Join a diverse team that values inclusivity and offers great career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while working outdoors and gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience in grounds maintenance and a full UK driving licence are essential.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 30000 € per year.
ABOUT THE ROLE
This is a permanent, hands-on role forming a core part of the Grounds Team within Facilities and Estates. The post holder will support the delivery of a professional, year-round grounds maintenance service across City Campus and Coach Lane Campus. The role requires an experienced and reliable individual who can work with minimal supervision, apply sound practical judgement, and contribute positively to day-to-day operations. The successful candidate will help maintain high standards across all external areas, responding to routine, seasonal, and reactive demands as required. The role is full time, working 5 days out of 7, including weekend working on a rota basis.
Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Carrying out grounds maintenance tasks including grass cutting, edging, weeding, watering, planting, pruning, hedge trimming, and general upkeep of landscaped and hard areas.
- Re-landscaping flower beds and garden areas and undertaking basic grounds repairs as required.
- Maintaining external cleanliness through litter picking, sweeping paths, roads and hard areas, and emptying external bins.
- Operating powered hand tools and equipment safely and carrying out basic maintenance checks.
- Operating university vehicles as required to support service delivery.
- Preparing and applying chemicals such as fertilisers and weed killers in accordance with training, manufacturer instructions, and safety guidelines.
- Undertaking winter maintenance duties including snow clearance and gritting to ensure safe access across sites.
- Working in accordance with health and safety requirements, risk assessments, and safe systems of work.
- Carrying out additional duties appropriate to the role in response to operational needs.
Further information is available in the role description.
ABOUT YOU
To be successful in the role, you will have:
- Demonstrable experience in grounds maintenance or horticultural services, preferably in a similar environment.
- Ability to work independently and manage day-to-day workload effectively.
- Practical knowledge of grass, plants, and landscaped areas.
- Confidence using grounds maintenance equipment, powered tools, and vehicles safely.
- PA1/PA6 spraying certificates (or equivalent).
- Full, UK driving licence.
- Physical ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and undertake manual tasks, including lifting.
Desirable qualifications and experience include:
- NVQ Level 2 (or higher) in Horticulture or Landscaping.
- PASMA, First Aid, or similar relevant training.
- Experience working across multiple sites or in a customer-facing environment.
Further information about the requirements of the role is available in the person specification.
If you would like an informal discussion about the role, please contact David Hunter, Facilities Coordinator.
To apply for this vacancy please click 'Apply Now'. Your application should include a covering letter and a CV.
ABOUT US
Join Northumbria University, a research-intensive institution unlocking potential and changing lives locally and globally. Named Times Higher Education's University of the Year in 2022 and Modern University of the Year in 2025, we rank top 25 in the UK for research power. Discover more about us.
With over 37,000 students from over 140 countries, we offer world-leading research, award-winning partnerships, and an outstanding student experience. We empower our exceptional staff, promoting a positive work-life balance and offering great benefits, including excellent pension schemes, flexible working, generous holiday entitlement and more.
Our Northumbria Values, co-created by our team, define who we are: Academic Excellence, Innovation, Inclusivity, Collaboration, and Ambition. Our Behaviours shape our work culture: We listen and learn, support one another, respect everyone, trust each other, and are bold.
Based in Newcastle upon Tyne and London, we are an on-campus organisation and offer flexible hours and location where the role allows. We pride ourselves on diversity and inclusivity, holding numerous awards for gender and race equality, disability confidence, and research excellence.
We also hold the HR Excellence in Research award for implementing the concordat supporting the career Development of Researchers and are members of the Euraxess initiative to deliver information and support to professional researchers. The University has implemented a range of flexible working arrangements, and we are happy to explore candidate requirements as part of the recruitment process.
Apply now and join a community committed to transforming society and the economy. Explore "Our Exceptional People, Our Values and Behaviours" page to learn more about our commitments and see our for further details.
Groundsperson in Grounds employer: University of Northumbria
Northumbria University is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and development of its staff, offering a supportive work culture that values collaboration, inclusivity, and innovation. With a commitment to work-life balance, employees benefit from flexible working arrangements, generous holiday entitlements, and excellent pension schemes, all while contributing to a vibrant community in Newcastle upon Tyne. Join us to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to transforming lives through world-class research and education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Groundsperson in Grounds
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! If you can, reach out to current staff or even the Facilities Coordinator, David Hunter. A friendly chat can give you insights into the role and show your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance, demonstrate your hands-on experience with grounds maintenance tasks. Talk about specific projects you've worked on that relate to grass cutting, planting, or using powered tools.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready for practical assessments! Since this role is all about getting your hands dirty, be prepared to showcase your abilities in real-time. Brush up on your techniques for weeding, pruning, and operating equipment safely.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our community at Northumbria University. Don’t forget to include a tailored CV and covering letter!
We think you need these skills to ace Groundsperson in Grounds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in grounds maintenance or horticultural services. We want to see how your skills match the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your practical knowledge and any relevant qualifications!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for our Grounds Team. Share specific examples of your past work and how you can contribute positively to our day-to-day operations.
Show Off Your Skills:If you’ve got certificates like PA1/PA6 or NVQ Level 2 in Horticulture, make sure they’re front and centre in your application. We love seeing candidates who are confident with powered tools and equipment!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our community at Northumbria University!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Northumbria
✨Know Your Grounds
Familiarise yourself with the specific grounds maintenance tasks mentioned in the job description. Be ready to discuss your previous experience with grass cutting, weeding, and using powered tools. Showing that you understand the role will impress the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Independence
Since the role requires working with minimal supervision, prepare examples of how you've successfully managed your workload independently in past positions. Highlight any situations where you took initiative or solved problems on your own.
✨Safety First
Brush up on health and safety regulations related to grounds maintenance. Be prepared to talk about how you ensure safety when operating equipment and handling chemicals. This shows that you take your responsibilities seriously and prioritise safety.
✨Show Your Passion for Horticulture
Express your enthusiasm for working outdoors and maintaining landscapes. Share any personal projects or experiences that demonstrate your love for plants and gardening. A genuine passion can set you apart from other candidates.
