Gardener 3 - Canal

Platinum Recruitment NI Ltd; Newry; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional recruitment agency is seeking a Grounds Maintenance Operative in Newry, Northern Ireland. The role involves maintaining council-owned waterways and parks, including tasks like grass cutting, litter clearance, and horticultural operations. Candidates should have NVQ Level 2 in Horticulture or equivalent, along with relevant experience operating grounds maintenance machinery and handling chemicals safely. The position requires working outdoors in varying weather conditions, driving responsibilities, and a customer-friendly attitude.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2 in Horticulture or equivalent is essential.
• 2 years' relevant experience with grounds maintenance machinery is preferred.
• Certificate in Chemical Spraying and Handling (Pa1 and Pa6a) is required.

Responsibilities

• Oversee maintenance tasks including grass cutting and litter clearing.
• Assist in horticultural operations such as planting and pruning.
• Drive and maintain allocated vehicles including trailers.

Skills

Use of commercial grounds maintenance machinery

Horticultural knowledge

Driving experience

Public interaction

Operation of commercial clearance machinery

Education

NVQ Level 2 in Horticulture or Equivalent

Tools

Chainsaw

Commercial vehicles with trailers

Job description

Main Role: The postholder will primarily be engaged in work relating to all council owned waterways but in general terms will be required to work in all weather conditions and as a team member contributing to the maintenance of the full range of the Councils parks, open spaces as appropriate.

Responsibilities

• To oversee and participate in maintenance including grass cutting, hedge trimming, clearing leaves and litter, etc at any of the Councils facilities including hazardous locations and in all weathers.
• To undertake ground maintenance work including planning, setting out and marking of sports areas. To advise on condition and availability of pitches.
• To be responsible for the safe storage, handling and recording of chemicals according to COSHH procedures.
• To undertake horticultural operations such as planting, pruning and seeding. To quantify appropriate plants and materials using horticultural knowledge for specific projects for ordering purposes.
• To use powered hand tools and plant, including the operation of tractor mounted equipment. To undertake daily maintenance and setting of machinery.
• To interpret plans and undertake site preparation and construction.
• To transport, erect and dismantle sports and other equipment.
• To drive and be responsible for allocated vehicles including trailers.
• To maintain records e.g. accident book, daily work sheets and stores records as required.
• To act as key holder for a range of Council locations.
• To ensure that corporate policies and procedures are adhered to.
• To maintain an up-to-date professional awareness of matters relating to horticulture and grounds maintenance.
• To assist in the implementation of the Councils emergency plan when required.
• To clear snow or debris following severe weather conditions and salt car parks and Council property.

Skills and Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2 in Horticulture or Equivalent
• OR
• 2 years’ relevant experience to include the use of commercial grounds maintenance machinery while in the presence of members of the public and/or traffic.
• Certificate in Chemical Spraying and Handling (Pa1 and Pa6a).
• OR
• Chainsaw Operators Licence (CS 30 & CS31 or equivalent)
• Previous experience of van driving and commercial vehicles with a trailer.
• Experience of working on own initiative and as part of a team.
• Be helpful, courteous; and have experience of working with members of the public.
• Experience with operation of commercial clearance machinery.
• Knowledge of seasonal planting schemes and plant selection.
• Hold a full current driving licence to include C1 plus E and access to transport.
• Ability to work outside of normal hours, including evenings, weekends and public/bank holidays.

Area: Derry or Londonderry
Closing date: 05 Dec 2025