*The closing date for this position is the 28 th May 2026* Gardener 3 (Skilled) Downpatrick Temporary (Approx 18 weeks) £14.07 per hour 36 hours per week Main Purpose To oversee and participate in maintenance including grass cutting, hedge trimming, clearing leaves and litter, etc at any of the Councils facilities including hazardous locations and in all weathers. To undertake ground maintenance work including planning, setting out and marking of sports areas. To advise on condition and availability of pitches. To be responsible for the safe storage, handling and recording of chemicals according to COSHH procedures. To undertake horticultural operations such as planting, pruning and seeding. To quantify appropriate plants and materials using horticultural knowledge for specific projects for ordering purposes. To use powered hand tools and plant, including the operation of tractor mounted equipment. To undertake daily maintenance and setting of machinery. To interpret plans and undertake site preparation and construction. To transport, erect and dismantle sports and other equipment. To drive and be responsible for allocated vehicles including trailers. To maintain records e.g. accident book, daily work sheets and stores records as required. To act as key holder for a range of Council locations. To ensure that corporate policies and procedures are adhered to. To maintain an up-to-date professional awareness of matters relating to horticulture and grounds maintenance. To assist in the implementation of the Councils emergency plan when required. To clear snow or debris following sever weather conditions and salt car parks and Council property. Essential Criteria: (Please note that Platinum Recruitment NI Ltd require original certificates as proof of all qualification listed on CV) NVQ Level 1 Horticulture AND a minimum of 12 months relevant experience to include the use of commercial grounds maintenance machinery. Examples: Strimmers, walk behind or ride on mowers, leaf blowers, hedge cutters and other hand tools OR In lieu of qualification, a minimum of 2 years relevant experience to include the use of commercial grounds maintenance machinery. Examples: Strimmers, walk behind or ride on mowers, leaf blowers, hedge cutters and other hand tools Current category B driving licence Platinum Recruitment NI Ltd is an equal opportunities employer and a Corporate Member of the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC). Platinum Recruitment NI Ltd adheres to all current employment legislation. We reserve the right to close vacancies earlier than the specified date, should we receive sufficient applications. If interested, please send your CV as early as possible. Please note only those candidates shortlisted may be contacted. Applicants must be authorised to work in the UK and Ireland. We are unable to sponsor or take over the sponsorship of an employment visa at this time. Successful candidates may need to apply for an Access NI Certificate with Platinum Recruitment NI Ltd regardless if you already have a valid certificate. It will be a cost of between £16 - £32 depending on clearance level.