HWRC Operative

Post Title

Gardener

JOB PURPOSE

To work as directed to carry out all aspects of practical amenity horticulture to the highest standards as required by the Grounds Maintenance Specification and Clients

KEY RESULT AREAS

1. To use a high level of gardening skills to meet the horticultural standards within the specification and to undertake all horticultural operations including:

• Grassing cutting duties/strimming/hedge trimming/clearing leaves and litter
• Planting out of bedding plants trees and shrubs
• Shrub bed planting and maintenance (e.g. pruning and division)
• Application of chemicals
• Maintenance setting out and marking sports facilities
• General soft landscaping works (e.g. topsoiling cultivation seeding shrubbed renewal etc.)

2 . To operate and be responsible for ensuring that all vehicles plant and machinery are kept in good working orders and comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act and the Road Traffic Regulations

3. To report any defects in tools and equipment to line manager

4 To take reasonable care of own and others safety; to cooperate with managers/ supervisors in complying with statutory health & safety duties; to report incidents accidents faults etc

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Qualifications

1. NVQ stage 1 in Horticulture (or equivalent) OR a minimum of two years proven practical experience in Grounds Maintenance work
2. Possession of a current full UK driving licence is essential

Knowledge

Possess knowledge of mechanical plant/equipment and its maintenance (or be prepared to undertake training)

1. Knowledge of plant identification and disorders
2. Knowledge of Health & Safety at Work Regulations

Experience

• Able to demonstrate all practical aspects of horticulture including grass cutting and general horticultual machinery
• Experience of soft landscaping work
• Experience of using mowing equipment and small plant (e.g. pedestrian mowers strimmers etc.)

Aptitude & Skills

• Ability to work on own initiative with minimum supervision
• Able to work to deadlines
• Good communication skills oral and written
• A willingness and ability to undertake further training and learn new skills
• Punctuality and reliability
• Ability to demonstrate a commitment to the improvement and development of the gardening team as a whole
• Flexible approach to people and work
• Willingness to assist colleagues when necessary
• Have a pleasant manner and positive attitude
• Stamina; able to undertake the physical aspects of the post
• Able to work outdoors irrespective of weather or conditions
• Able to work in any location within the city boundary
• Availability to work overtime if necessary

• Ability to interpret plant plans
• Stamina; able to undertake the physical aspects of the post
• Able to work outdoors irrespective of weather or conditions

EXPECTED BEHAVIOURS & VALUES

• Encourage and support others as part of a team. Give guidance and advice to others. Grow positive working relationships
• Contribute with and be open to change.
• Communicate openly being straightforward with people to generate trust and confidence.
• Follow procedures and rules. Give feedback where these can be improved.
• Honestly reflect on my personal style and its impact on others and develop my skills so I can adapt my style as appropriate.