Grounds Operative

2 months contract with a Local Authority

£17.15 per hour umbrella

Job Purpose

• To undertake grounds maintenance and environmental services work across public parks, schools, playing fields, landscaped areas, sports facilities, and other open spaces. The post holder will contribute to the delivery of a high-quality grounds maintenance service by ensuring that allocated areas are maintained safely, efficiently, and in accordance with approved standards and specifications.
  

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out general grounds maintenance activities including grass cutting, hedge trimming, weed control, planting, and upkeep of landscaped areas.
  
• Maintain sports pitches and recreational facilities, including setting out and marking sports areas and maintaining artificial, synthetic, and natural playing surfaces.
  
• Undertake site preparation, construction, and maintenance activities using relevant craft skills and by interpreting work plans and specifications.
  
• Clean and maintain public facilities such as changing rooms, toilets, playgrounds, parks, and open spaces.
  
• Apply pesticides safely and responsibly in line with current legislation, COSHH regulations, and manufacturer guidelines.
  
• Operate handheld and powered tools, vibrating machinery, light plant, tractors, and tractor-mounted equipment safely and effectively.
  
• Conduct routine visual inspections of playground equipment and record findings in accordance with organisational procedures.
  
• Assist in the supervision and guidance of trainees and other employees when required.
  
• Ensure all vehicles, plant, and machinery are maintained in a safe, roadworthy, and operational condition.
  
• Comply with all Health and Safety policies, safe systems of work, and statutory requirements, including the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
  
• Undertake duties across various service departments within the Environment Department as required.
  
• Use all personal protective equipment (PPE) provided and ensure safe working practices are followed at all times.
  

Experience Required

Essential

• Previous experience in gardening, grounds maintenance, landscaping, or similar outdoor maintenance roles.
  
• Experience operating grounds maintenance equipment and machinery.
  
• Experience working independently with minimal supervision.
  
• Knowledge of safe working practices within an outdoor environment.
  

Desirable

• Experience maintaining sports pitches and recreational facilities.
  
• Experience carrying out playground inspections.
  
• Experience supervising or mentoring trainees or junior staff.
  

Qualifications & Training

Essential

• Training and competency in the use of grounds maintenance machinery and equipment.
  
• Full UK Driving Licence.
  
• Ability to tow trailers.
  

Desirable

• NPTC PA6A Certificate (Pesticide Application).
  
• First Aid Certificate.
  
• Additional qualifications related to grounds maintenance, horticulture, landscaping, or environmental services.
  

Knowledge & Skills

Essential

• Knowledge of Health and Safety legislation and safe working practices.
  
• Understanding of COSHH Regulations.
  
• Ability to operate hand tools, powered vibrating machinery, and light plant equipment safely.
  
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to complete tasks within specified timescales.
  
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
  
• Good communication skills and ability to interact professionally with colleagues and members of the public.
  

Desirable

• Understanding of sports pitch maintenance techniques.
  
• Knowledge of playground safety standards and inspection procedures.
  

Personal Attributes

• Reliable and self-motivated.
  
• Strong team player with a positive attitude.
  
• Flexible and adaptable approach to work.
  
• Committed to maintaining high standards of service delivery.
  
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  

Additional Information

• Location: Carmarthen, Carmarthenshire
  
• Working Hours: The role requires flexibility to work 43 hours per week during summer periods, with working hours reducing to 31 hours per week during winter periods as required by operational needs.
  
• Currently 31 hours per week.
• Pay Rate: £17.15 per hour (UMBRELLA)
  
• Candidates must be physically fit and healthy due to the demanding nature of the role, which involves outdoor work, manual handling, and the operation of grounds maintenance equipment.
  
• Applicants must reside within Carmarthenshire or within a reasonable commuting distance of Carmarthen.
  
• A full UK driving licence is essential.
  
• The role involves regular use of outdoor machinery, equipment, and vehicles in varying weather conditions.
  
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be worn and used at all times in accordance with Health and Safety requirements.
  
• No DBS check is required for this position.
  
• The successful candidate must be willing to work across different locations and service areas within the Environment Department as directed by management.
  
• Payment Schedule: Bi-weekly
  
• Start Date: Immediate start available
  
• Closing Date: Applications closing soon – early applications are encouraged
  
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