Grounds Maintenance Operative
15 days ago
Manchester
Your new company\n\nA large, reputable higher education institution in Manchester is seeking a dedicated and proactive Grounds Maintenance Operative to support the upkeep and presentation of its campus grounds. This long-term temporary position offers stability, a collaborative working environment, and the opportunity to contribute to the safety, sustainability, and overall student experience across a busy university estate.\n\nYour new role\n\nCarry out routine grounds maintenance including mowing, strimming, edging, hedge cutting, weeding, pruning, and planting.\nUndertake soft landscaping works such as turfing, mulching, and seasonal planting schemes.\nMaintain pathways, courtyards, outdoor sports areas, and communal green spaces to a high standard.\nSupport leaf collection, litter picking, and waste management across the campus.\nOperate and maintain ground machinery and tools safely (e.g., ride-on mowers, strimmers, blowers).\nAssist with gritting and snow-clearing duties during winter months to ensure safe access across campus.\nReport maintenance issues, hazards, or defects promptly to supervisors.\nWork collaboratively with estates and facilities teams to support events, projects, and seasonal requirements.\nEnsure all work is completed in line with health and safety regulations and university policies.What you'll need to succeedEssential\n\nExperience in grounds maintenance, landscaping, horticulture, or a similar outdoor maintenance role.\nAbility to operate grounds maintenance machinery and equipment safely.\nStrong understanding of health and safety working practices.\nReliable, punctual, and able to work independently or as part of a team.\nPhysically fit and able to work outdoors in all weather conditions.Desirable\n\nHorticulture or grounds maintenance qualification (e.g., NVQ Level 2 in Horticulture or equivalent).\nPA1/PA6 pesticide qualifications.\nFull UK driving licence.\nExperience working in a public-sector or education environment.What you'll get in return\n\nLong-term temporary assignment within a respected Manchester higher education institution.\nSupportive and friendly estate services team.\nOpportunities to build experience on a large, diverse estate.\nWeekly pay and competitive hourly rate.\n\nWhat you need to do now \nIf you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.\nIf this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.\n\nHays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at (url removed)