Cleansing Operative 1

Somerset County Council; Glastonbury; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25 days annual leave

LGPS pension

Flexible working

Health & wellbeing support

Volunteer opportunities

Job summary

Somerset County Council is seeking a Cleansing Operative to support the Environmental Services team in keeping towns, villages and public spaces clean and welcoming across Somerset. The role is outdoors, hands-on and involves operating vehicles and equipment to deliver frontline cleansing services.

You will work a Wednesday to Sunday rota, with weekend availability essential. A full UK driving licence is required, and LGPS benefits and flexible/hybrid options are available where service needs

Qualifications

• Experience in a practical, physically active role and the ability to work outdoors in varying conditions.
• Strong health and safety commitment and adherence to procedures.
• Good communication skills when dealing with colleagues and the public.

Responsibilities

• Keep streets and public spaces clean, safe and welcoming.
• Remove litter, empty bins and support environmental improvement activities.
• Operate vehicles, machinery and equipment safely.
• Carry out routine vehicle and equipment checks.
• Report completed work and safety concerns promptly.

Skills

Outdoor work experience

Health & safety awareness

Good communication

Initiative

Driving licence (UK)

Job description

Salary: Grade 15 - £25,614 to £26,016 per annum

Contract: Permanent

Hours: 37 hours per week

Closing Date: 22nd November 2026

About The Role

Our Environmental Services team helps keep Somerset's towns, villages and public spaces clean, safe and welcoming for everyone who lives, works and visits here. Their work has a direct impact on community pride, public wellbeing and the appearance of our county.

As a Cleansing Operative, you'll play an important frontline role in maintaining Somerset's streets and public areas to a high standard. Working as part of a supportive team, you'll carry out a variety of outdoor cleansing tasks that help create cleaner, safer environments for local communities. This is a hands‑on role where you'll see the difference your work makes every day, while contributing to services that residents and visitors rely on. If you enjoy practical work, being active outdoors and taking pride in improving your local area, we'd love to hear from you.

As part of this role, you will work a Wednesday to Sunday rota, supporting service delivery across weekends. Flexibility and availability to work weekends are essential.

How You'll Make a Difference

• Help keep streets, public spaces and community facilities clean, safe and welcoming for residents and visitors.
• Remove litter, empty bins and support environmental improvement activities that enhance local neighbourhoods.
• Operate vehicles, machinery and equipment safely to deliver efficient frontline cleansing services.
• Carry out routine vehicle and equipment checks, helping to keep services running smoothly and safely.
• Report completed work, maintenance issues and safety concerns, ensuring a responsive and high-quality service.

What You'll Bring

• Experience in a practical, physically active role and the ability to work outdoors in varying conditions.
• The ability to work independently, manage your workload and use your initiative when needed.
• A strong commitment to health and safety, including following procedures and using equipment responsibly.
• Good communication skills and a positive approach when working with colleagues and members of the public.
• A full UK driving licence and confidence carrying out basic vehicle and equipment checks.

Why Join Us?

At Somerset Council, we're a progressive organisation committed to improving lives and shaping better services for our communities. Based in one of England's most beautiful counties, it's a great place to build your career and enjoy an excellent quality of life.

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave.
• Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), one of the UK's most enhanced and secure pension schemes.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support work‑life balance, where service needs allow.
• Health and wellbeing support, including access to confidential employee assistance services.
• Paid volunteering opportunities, helping you make a difference both inside and outside of work.

Find Out More About Working At Somerset Council

https://www.somerset.gov.uk/jobs-and-careers/working-at-somerset-council/

Further Information

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role. We are only able to proceed with candidates who already have the right to work in the UK without the need for visa sponsorship.

For an informal chat about the role, you can contact Dave Williams, [e-mail]

We believe diversity makes us stronger and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences, whose unique perspectives help us better serve the people of Somerset.

You can find a copy of the job description here SCG1303 Cleansing Operative.pdf

Job Ref:1618/DT