Job Purpose
To assist in carrying out grounds maintenance across the parishes of Harwell and Chilton. The post holder will support the upkeep of recreation grounds, churchyards, cemeteries, allotments, and other council-maintained land, while working towards the completion of a Level 2 apprenticeship qualification in Horticulture or Landscaping.
This is a joint post, hosted by Harwell Parish Council in partnership with Chilton Parish Council. The post holder will be required to work across both parishes and will develop practical skills under the supervision of the Head Grounds Maintenance Worker.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
General Grounds Maintenance
- Assist with the upkeep of cemetery, churchyard, and recreation ground in both Harwell and Chilton, including grass cutting, edge and bank trimming, and clearance of leaves and litter.
- Help maintain a clean and tidy appearance within the boundary of all council-maintained sites and around their entrances.
- Assist with general maintenance of pathways, including trimming of edges, lopping of overhanging branches, and clearance of litter.
- Assist with the cutting of grass verges throughout both parishes.
- Report any defects in roads, pathways, and lighting to the Clerk Team.
Cemetery and Churchyard
- Assist with general maintenance of graves and pathways, including edge trimming, pruning overhanging branches, and hedge trimming.
- Ensure rubbish is placed in bins provided.
- Report any required repairs or non-compliance of Cemetery Policies to the Clerk Team.
- Assist with periodic checking of tombstones and memorials, reporting any loose or otherwise dangerous memorials to the Clerk Team immediately.
- Assist with the annual tombstone test in November.
- Support the Clerk Team and Head Groundsman with burial arrangements as directed, including liaising with funeral directors and relatives as required under supervision.
- Pass burial and cremation certificates, burial request forms, and payments to the Clerk Team.
- Assist with the allocation and preparation of ashes plots and burial ground.
Recreation Ground
- Assist with the upkeep of the recreation ground including grass cutting, edge trimming, and maintenance of overhanging branches.
- Assist with the maintenance of playing fields, pavilion, play area, and outdoor gym equipment.
- Carry out weekly and monthly checks of play and gym equipment under supervision and report any defects to the Clerk Team.
Allotments and Other Areas
- Assist with general upkeep of allotments in both parishes as and when required.
- Assist with the maintenance of any council-owned open spaces, verges, and paths as directed.
Equipment and Administration
- Report any problems with the Council’s vehicles and machinery to the Clerk Team.
- Assist with the maintenance of council-owned equipment if appropriately qualified or supervised.
- Assist with the periodic emptying of litter bins and dog waste bins.
- Sign the signing-in book every working day on commencement of duties and complete a timesheet of activities.
- Record any accidents in the accident book.
- Undertake any other duties as agreed with the line manager.
Apprenticeship Training
The post holder will be enrolled on a Level 2 Horticulture or Landscaping Operative apprenticeship programme with an approved training provider. Several hours per week will be dedicated to off-the-job training, which may take place remotely or at a college or training centre.
Progress against the apprenticeship framework will be reviewed regularly and the post holder will be supported by both the Head Grounds Maintenance Worker and the Clerk Team throughout the programme.
Additional Requirements
Driving Licence
A full UK driving licence is desirable.
PPE and Equipment
All necessary PPE, tools, and equipment will be supplied by the Council, including the use of a Council-owned vehicle during working hours.
Other Duties
This job description outlines the main duties and responsibilities of the post as currently defined. It should not be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. There may be other duties and responsibilities deemed necessary by the Council, the Line Manager, or the Supervisor in response to the changing needs of both parishes.
Pay: From £10.28 per hour
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
