Grounds Maintenance Operative

Spelthorne Borough Council is looking for two reliable and enthusiastic Grounds Maintenance Operatives to join our Parks and Open Spaces team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with a keen interest in gardening, horticulture and the upkeep of public open spaces. Working as part of the team, you will help maintain the Walled Garden in Sunbury on Thames and associated grounds to a safe, attractive and well-presented standard for residents and visitors. About the role You will support the day-to-day maintenance of the Walled Garden and surrounding open spaces, carrying out a range of practical outdoor tasks. Duties will include grass cutting, planting, watering, weeding, edging, pruning, hedge trimming, seasonal clearance, litter removal and general site maintenance. You will also use a range of grounds maintenance tools and equipment, such as mowers, strimmers, blowers and hand tools, once suitable training has been provided. You will be expected to follow safe working practices, use appropriate personal protective equipment and report any defects, hazards or maintenance issues to the Team Leader.

We are looking for someone who is dependable, punctual and happy to work outdoors in varying weather conditions. You should have a genuine interest in plants, gardening and public open spaces, along with the ability to work safely, methodically and as part of a team. You will need to communicate appropriately with residents, visitors, colleagues and contractors, and be willing to learn new skills as required. Previous grounds maintenance or horticultural experience would be an advantage, but a positive attitude and willingness to learn are equally important. Key requirements The successful candidate will have:

• A keen interest in gardening, plants and maintaining public open spaces
• Reliability, punctuality and a methodical approach to work
• The ability to undertake practical outdoor work safely and consistently
• A willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions
• The ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Good awareness of health and safety requirements
• Appropriate communication skills when dealing with residents and visitors
Previous grounds maintenance or horticultural experience, knowledge of Spelthorne, experience using grounds maintenance tools or machinery, and a full clean manual driving licence would be desirable but not necessary.

Spelthorne Borough Council is committed to equality of opportunity and to providing a healthy and safe working environment. If you enjoy practical outdoor work and would like to help keep our parks and open spaces safe, attractive and welcoming, we would like to hear from you. In return, we can offer excellent conditions of service with a benefits' package that includes, pension scheme and at least 23 days' paid leave per year.