JOB PROFILE
What Is a Ground Maintenance Operative?
IN THIS JOB PROFILE
You Will Learn.
- What a Ground Maintenance Operative is.
- What the responsibilities of a Ground Maintenance Operative are.
- What qualifications a Ground Maintenance Operative needs.
- What skills a Ground Maintenance Operative needs.
- Who employs a Ground Maintenance Operative.
- The average salary of a Ground Maintenance Operative.
- The perks of being a Ground Maintenance Operative.
- Where the latest Ground Maintenance Operative jobs are and how to apply for them.
What Is a Ground Maintenance Operative?
A Ground Maintenance Operative plays a vital role in ensuring the upkeep and aesthetic appeal of various outdoor spaces. Their responsibilities encompass a range of tasks related to landscaping, gardening, and general maintenance. These professionals are typically employed in parks, public gardens, sports facilities, schools, and commercial properties.
One of the primary responsibilities of a Ground Maintenance Operative is maintaining the cleanliness and tidiness of outdoor areas. This involves tasks such as litter picking, sweeping paths, and emptying bins. They also perform routine maintenance activities like mowing lawns, pruning shrubs and trees, and planting flowers to create vibrant and well-maintained landscapes.
Furthermore, a Ground Maintenance Operative is often responsible for weed control, ensuring that unwanted vegetation is kept at bay. They may utilise appropriate herbicides or manual methods to control the growth of weeds and maintain the overall appearance of the outdoor spaces.
These professionals also play a crucial role in maintaining the safety of outdoor areas. They inspect and repair playground equipment, benches, fences, and footpaths, addressing any potential hazards promptly. Additionally, they may be involved in snow clearance and gritting during winter months to ensure safe access to the premises.
Overall, the role of a Ground Maintenance Operative requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic. Their efforts contribute to the preservation and enhancement of outdoor spaces, providing enjoyable and well-maintained environments for the public, visitors, and users of these areas.
What Are the Responsibilities of a Ground Maintenance Operative?
While working as a Ground Maintenance Operative, you will be required to:
- Ensure outdoor spaces are maintained to a high standard.
- Complete landscaping and gardening to maintain outdoor spaces.
- Ensure outdoor spaces are kept clean and tidy.
- Litter pick and empty bins when required to.
- Perform routine maintenance tasks such as mowing lawns and planting flowers.
- Ensure weed control is carried out regularly.
- Repair outdoor equipment when required, such as benches and fences.
- Clear snow and lay down grit during winter months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Qualifications Does a Ground Maintenance Operative Need?
To operate as a Ground Maintenance Operative in the UK, several qualifications and skills are typically required.
Popular entries into this role include completing a college course, taking part in an apprenticeship or working towards a full time position by gaining as much work experience as possible.
Depending on the specific role, qualifications such as a Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Horticulture or a related field may be advantageous.
A basic understanding of horticulture and plant care is essential, including knowledge of different plants, weeds, and their maintenance requirements.
Practical skills in operating and maintaining grounds maintenance equipment, such as mowers, trimmers, and leaf blowers, are also important.
Additionally, health and safety awareness is crucial, including familiarity with safe working practices and the proper use of personal protective equipment.
What Is the Average Salary of a Ground Maintenance Operative?
On average, a Ground Maintenance Operative in the UK can expect to earn a salary range of approximately £18,000 to £25,000 per year.
However, this figure is an estimate and can vary based on various factors such as the size and type of grounds being maintained (e.g., parks, gardens, sports fields), the region or city where the job is located, and the level of experience and qualifications of the operative.
Who Employs a Ground Maintenance Operative?
A Ground Maintenance Operative in the UK would typically be employed by a variety of organisations that require the upkeep and care of outdoor spaces.
These can include local government bodies, such as city councils or municipal parks departments, responsible for maintaining public parks, gardens, and recreational areas.
Additionally, private companies owning large estates, golf courses, or corporate office parks may employ Ground Maintenance Operatives to ensure the aesthetic appeal and functionality of their grounds.
Educational institutions, including schools and universities, may also hire these professionals to maintain their outdoor facilities.
Any entity with outdoor spaces in need of regular maintenance and landscaping would require the services of a Ground Maintenance Operative.
What Skills Does a Ground Maintenance Operative Need?
Key skills of a Ground Maintenance Operative include:
- A good level of physical fitness as the role may require manual labour and moving heavy equipment.
- Knowledge of horticulture to correctly distinguish between plants when working.
- Attention to details to effectively follow instructions and ensure work is completed to a high standard.
- Knowledge of health and safety regulations to ensure that working environments are safe at all times and guidelines are always adhered to.
- Good communication skills to effectively interact with other team members and liaise with clients.
- Good time management to ensure projects are completed in a timely manner and jobs are prioritised in order of urgency and importance.
- Patience in order to complete difficult jobs that may take time to complete.
- Teamwork to effectively work alongside other tradespeople.
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