Groundsperson Level 2

Opportunity Review: Grounds Maintenance Operative - East Riding of Yorkshire Council

This role within the East Riding of Yorkshire Council's Grounds Maintenance Service presents a fantastic opportunity for individuals passionate about contributing to the upkeep and beautification of public spaces. If you thrive in an outdoor environment and enjoy a physically engaging role, this position offers a stable and impactful career path.

Key Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• Meaningful Contribution: You'll play a vital role in ensuring the effective delivery of council grounds services, directly impacting the visual appeal and usability of green spaces across the East Riding of Yorkshire.
• Skill Development and Training: While existing experience in grounds maintenance is desirable, the council explicitly states that training will be provided for operating key machinery such as triple mowers and tractors. This is a significant advantage for candidates looking to expand their skillset and gain valuable operational experience.
• Varied and Engaging Work: The responsibilities are diverse, encompassing everything from grass cutting and strimming to hedge cutting, herbicide application, planting, and even minor landscaping repairs. This variety ensures that no two days are the same, keeping the role dynamic and interesting.
• Teamwork and Independence: The role offers a balance of working independently on tasks and collaborating within a team. You'll have the opportunity to utilize your initiative to ensure work is completed to a high standard, while also contributing to the collective success of the grounds maintenance team.
• Career Progression Potential: The emphasis on problem-solving, organization, and customer respect suggests that individuals who excel in these areas may find opportunities for growth within the service, potentially taking on more responsibility in monitoring and allocating work.
• Stable Employment: Working for a local council typically offers good job security and consistent hours.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Physical Demands: A strong level of physical fitness is essential. Candidates must be comfortable with prolonged walking (a minimum of 5 hours daily) and the capability to move heavy equipment.
• Early Starts: The role requires an early start, with the expectation to be at the depot ready for work by 7:30 am.
• Outdoor Work: This position involves working outdoors in all weather conditions. Resilience and a genuine enjoyment of being outside are crucial.
• Equipment Use: Experience with hand-arm vibrating equipment is a requirement. While this is managed within HSE guidelines, candidates should be aware of this aspect of the role.
• Driving License: A full driving license is an essential requirement for this position.
• Local Knowledge: While the role is based at Goole depot, having good local knowledge of other areas within the East Riding of Yorkshire will be beneficial.
• Customer Interaction: Treating customers with respect is highlighted as an essential trait, indicating that candidates will likely have some level of public interaction.

Guiding Your Career Path:

For individuals seeking a career that combines practical skills with a tangible impact on their local community, this Grounds Maintenance Operative role is an excellent starting point or a valuable next step. The opportunity to gain new skills and certifications, coupled with the consistent nature of the work, provides a solid foundation for a long-term career in grounds management or related fields. Those who are reliable, adaptable, and possess a strong work ethic will find this role to be both rewarding and a pathway to further professional development within the council's services.