CMS Recruitment are seeking hardworking Grounds Maintenance Operative on a permanent basis to join our well know construction & regeneration client working across Northumberland. Role Purpose: To deliver high-quality grounds maintenance services across estates, communal external areas, and facilities. The Grounds Maintenance Operative ensures outdoor environments are clean, safe, well-presented, and compliant with service standards, enhancing the appearance and usability of external spaces for residents and visitors. Duties and Responsibilities: Key Responsibilities Carry out grass cutting, strimming, hedge trimming, pruning, weeding, edging, and shrub maintenance. Operate grounds machinery including lawn mowers, strimmers, leaf blowers, hedge cutters, and ride-on equipment (where trained). Maintain planting beds, borders, trees, and seasonal features. Perform litter picking, waste collection, and fly-tip reporting. Assist with soft landscaping tasks such as planting, turfing, mulching, and soil preparation. Grit and clear snow/ice during winter months to maintain safe access routes. Report estate issues such as damaged fencing, unsafe trees, trip hazards, vandalism, or abandoned vehicles. Work safely around the public, ensuring tools and machinery do not pose risks. Communicate clearly and respectfully with residents and building users. Follow all Health & Safety policies, RAMS, and safe systems of work. Use correct PPE at all times, including hearing and eye protection. Carry out pre-use checks on machinery and equipment. Identify and report hazards such as unsafe trees, exposed roots, damaged pathways, or pest issues. Ensure safe storage, handling, and refuelling of machinery and fuel containers. Use handheld devices or job sheets to record completed works, photos, and follow-on actions. Vehicle Responsibilities: Drive company vehicles safely in line with UK road law and fleet policy. Conduct daily checks including tyres, lights, fluids, damage, and load security. Report vehicle defects immediately and follow correct procedures. Keep the vehicle clean and ensure tools, machines, and consumables are safely secured. Maintain van stock including fuel, strimmer cord, PPE, and basic tools. Follow procedures for fuel use, telematics, parking, and accident reporting. Generic Requirements for all colleagues Contribute to the creation of a positive culture in line with Advance Northumberland values. Show commitment to equality and diversity in the workplace and ensure this is reflected in all activities. Ensure a safe and sustainable working environment is promoted across the business. Contribute to the financial performance of the business, in line with role responsibilities Undertake other reasonable duties as requested Essential Criteria Skills, Knowledge & Experience Required: Experience in grounds maintenance or outdoor labouring work. Ability to operate grounds machinery safely and effectively. Understanding of soft landscaping and horticultural tasks. Awareness of environmental and ecological considerations. Good communication and customer service skills. IT skills sufficient to undertake mandatory training and use in-house APPS. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Full UK driving licence (if required for the role). Desirable: NVQ Level 2 in Horticulture or Grounds Maintenance. Desirable: PA1/PA6 pesticide application certification. Desirable: Experience in social housing or public sector estate management. Desirable: First aid training and experience using digital job management systems. Behavioural Expectations: Professional and polite at all times when representing the organisation. Commitment to delivering high standards of outdoor presentation. Positive, proactive attitude with pride in the quality of the environment. Strong commitment to safe working practices and PPE use. Organised approach to route planning, task management, and timekeeping. Tools, Equipment & Machinery: Maintain tools and machinery in safe working condition through checks and cleaning. Report faulty equipment immediately and remove from service where necessary. Use appropriate PPE for all activities involving machinery. Ensure safe handling, mixing, and application of chemicals (where trained). Maintain tidy, organised vehicles and equipment storage areas. Performance Measures Quality of grounds presentation and maintenance standards. Seasonal work responsiveness (e.g., winter, leaf-fall season). Customer satisfaction and resident feedback. Productivity and completion of scheduled routes and tasks. Compliance with Health & Safety procedures and RAMS. Accuracy of job reporting, photos, and equipment logs. If you are passionate about Ground Maintenance and possess the necessary skills, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity!