Estate Maintenance & Farm Worker
Location: Matfen, Northumberland — with duties across the Matfen Estate, Halton Castle, and other locations as required.
Reports to: Estate Manager
Purpose of the Role
The Estate Maintenance & Farm Worker will play a key role in the upkeep, presentation, and smooth operation of the Matfen Estate and associated properties. This is a varied, hands-on position focused primarily on estate maintenance, farm support, woodland management, and property upkeep.
The successful candidate will help ensure that estate infrastructure, buildings, land, woodlands, and other outdoor areas are maintained to a high standard, remaining safe, functional, and presentable throughout the year.
While some grounds maintenance duties are required, particularly at Halton Castle, this role is not primarily a gardening position. Specialist gardening and horticultural work will be undertaken separately, with this role focused on general estate operations and maintenance.
A background in farming, estate work, agricultural contracting, or rural property maintenance would be highly beneficial.
Key Responsibilities
Estate Maintenance & Operations
- Carry out general estate maintenance including fencing, gates, tracks, drainage systems, and external property repairs.
- Assist with the upkeep and presentation of estate buildings, cottages, workshops, and surrounding areas.
- Support biomass boiler operations, log splitting, timber handling, deliveries, and winter gritting.
- Undertake woodland and forestry work including tree planting, trimming, felling assistance, clearance, and habitat management.
- Perform routine servicing and maintenance of estate vehicles, tools, and machinery.
- Support farm and land-based activities as directed by the Estate Manager.
- Assist with livestock, land management, and seasonal agricultural operations where required.
Grounds Maintenance
- Carry out grass cutting, strimming and knapsack spraying around estate properties
- Maintain lawns, access routes, and general outdoor areas to a tidy and presentable standard.
- Operate and maintain grounds maintenance equipment including ride-on mowers, strimmer’s, hedge cutters, and blowers.
- Undertake seasonal tasks such as leaf clearance, hedge cutting, and vegetation management.
- Support occasional landscaping and planting projects as required.
Estate Development & Project Work
- Contribute to estate improvement and conservation projects.
- Assist with woodland, hedgerow, and environmental management initiatives.
- Support infrastructure upgrades and property improvement works across the estate.
- Participate in estate events, open days, charitable activities, and other projects when required.
Skills & Attributes
- Proven experience in estate maintenance, farming, agricultural work, rural property maintenance, or a similar practical role.
- Strong practical skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a small, flexible team.
- High standards of workmanship and attention to detail.
- Reliable, physically fit, and comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Good awareness of health, safety, and environmental practices.
Essential
- Full UK driving licence.
- Experience operating, or willingness to train in the safe use of estate and agricultural machinery, including chainsaws, tractors, telehandlers, and other equipment.
- Practical maintenance skills and a willingness to undertake a varied workload.
Desirable
- Previous experience in farming, estate management, forestry, or agricultural contracting.
- PA1/2/6, Telehandler Certificate, Chainsaw Certificate desirable but not essential
- Experience with woodland management, fencing, drainage, and general construction or maintenance work.
Hours of Work
- Monday to Friday: 08:00 – 16:00 (including a one-hour break).
- Occasional weekend work or emergency call-outs may be required depending on seasonal demands and estate requirements.
Salary & Benefits
- Competitive salary, commensurate with experience.
- Overtime opportunities available.
- Estate accommodation may be available following successful completion of the probationary period.
- Employer pension contributions of up to 3%.
- 25 days annual leave per year (restricted during key seasonal periods).
Personal Qualities
- Self-motivated, dependable, and adaptable.
- Takes pride in maintaining high standards across the estate.
- Professional, trustworthy, and respectful when representing the estate.
- Enthusiastic about rural life and working within a diverse countryside environment.
- Willing to undertake a broad range of tasks and contribute positively to the wider estate team.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £26,000.00-£30,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Experience:
- Farm & Estate: 1 year (preferred)
Language:
Licence/Certification:
- Driving Licence (required)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
