4 months contract with a Local Authority

Job Title: Grounds Operative

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.
  
• Pay Rate: £16.61 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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