About the Role
We are seeking a committed and skilled Gardener (Grade D) to support the maintenance and improvement of parks, green spaces and horticultural areas. This post will be filled via a six-month agency extension, ensuring continuity of service with an operative already experienced and familiar with the role. This approach prevents disruption and maintains service quality.
You will work as part of the Green Team to deliver high-standard horticultural maintenance and provide a frontline presence to park users.
Key ResponsibilitiesHorticultural & Grounds Maintenance
* Carry out routine and specialist horticultural tasks to maintain parks and green spaces to a high standard.
* Support preparation and delivery of planting schemes, seasonal bedding, and fine turf maintenance.
* Perform tasks such as digging, raking, mulching, pruning, staking, watering and weeding.
* Carry out grass cutting and turf maintenance across ornamental, sports and amenity areas.
* Assist with hard and soft landscaping works under direction.
* Mix and correctly apply pesticides (where trained and accredited).
* Maintain tools, machinery and equipment, reporting defects and ensuring safe operation.
* Undertake snow/ice removal, leaf clearance, litter collection and other tasks to maintain safety and cleanliness.
Public Interaction & Community Support
* Provide courteous, helpful responses to park users and the public.
* Support delivery of community events such as tree planting, bulb planting and clean-up activities.
* Report complaints, antisocial behaviour or issues to Green Team Coordinators.
Operational Duties
* Assist in receiving deliveries and moving materials to site.
* Conduct visual play inspections in designated play areas.
* Work independently across parks and open spaces without direct supervision.
* Support gate locking/unlocking duties and maintain accurate records (occasional unsociable hours with notice).
* Participate in the Council’s performance management processes and staff training.
Requirements
Ideal Candidate ProfileEssential Skills & Experience
* Experience working in grounds maintenance or horticulture.
* Ability to maintain green spaces to a high standard.
* Experience using horticultural machinery, tools and equipment.
* Able to perform routine machinery maintenance (oiling, cleaning, minor adjustments).
* Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
* Knowledge of health & safety, safe use of pesticides and working practices for parks/open spaces.
* Working knowledge of plants, bedding schemes and fine turf maintenance.
* Strong communication skills to interact with the public and colleagues.
* Commitment to equality, diversity and excellent service delivery.
* Ability to undertake training relevant to the role.
* Full UK driving licence.
Desirable
* Knowledge of first aid relating to public safety and park environments.
* Experience leading or supporting small community-based horticultural events.
Pre-Employment Requirements
* Basic DBS Check (if required by the service)
* Proof of Right to Work in the UK
* Satisfactory employment references
Benefits
Why Join?
* Continue working within an established team without disruption to service delivery.
* Work outdoors across a variety of green spaces with a supportive operational team.
* Opportunities to develop horticultural and machinery skills further.
* Play a key role in maintaining safe, attractive, high-quality parks for residents and visitors.
How to Apply
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Reference ID: RQ1635985