Horticultural Operative Apprentice

Mediterranean Shipping Company; Ipswich; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading shipping firm is seeking a Horticultural Operative Apprentice to support grounds maintenance and landscaping projects. This 24-month fixed-term role includes the opportunity to enroll in a structured Level 2 Horticulture Operative Apprenticeship. The apprentice will work outdoors in various weather conditions, assisting with tasks such as pruning, planting, and managing plant health. The role offers competitive salary, health care, and training from experienced staff in a supportive environment.

Benefits

Private Health Care

Generous pension scheme

Life Assurance – 4x salary

22 days holiday

Discounted gym membership

Cycle to work scheme

Qualifications

• Interest in horticulture, landscaping, or grounds maintenance.
• Willingness to learn and apply horticultural techniques.
• Ability to work effectively in outdoor conditions.

Responsibilities

• Assist with routine grounds maintenance.
• Support seasonal landscaping projects.
• Learn to operate horticultural tools and machinery.

Skills

Interest in horticulture

Willingness to work outdoors

Basic knowledge of plants

Understanding of Health & Safety

Education

GCSEs in English and Maths

Job description

Horticultural Operative Apprentice

Fixed term, 24 months

To support the maintenance and enhancement of the landscaped grounds and provide support to both internal and external facilities maintenance across MSC (U.K.) Ltd. sites, while undertaking a structured Level 2 Horticulture Operative Apprenticeship. This role supports succession planning for the current sole groundskeeper and contributes to the long-term sustainability and aesthetics of the estate.

How you will help us and what you can expect

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with routine grounds maintenance including mowing, pruning, weeding, and planting
• Support seasonal landscaping projects and soft landscaping installations
• Learn and apply horticultural techniques under supervision
• Operate and maintain horticultural tools and machinery safely
• Maintain plant health and manage pests and diseases
• Contribute to the upkeep of hard landscaping features (e.g. paths, fences)
• Work outdoors in all weather conditions across multiple sites
• Attend college-based training and complete coursework as required
• Conduct general internal and external facilities maintenance work as required

Training & Development

• Enrolment in the Level 2 Horticulture Operative Apprenticeship (via Grey Seal Academy)
• Off-the-job training (approx. 20% of working hours)
• Functional Skills in English and Maths (if not already achieved)
• Mentorship from experienced staff including involvement in project planning and execution
• Attend formal internal and external training as required and in line with regulatory and internal compliance requirements

Skills and experience you’ll bring to us

Essential

• Interest in horticulture, landscaping, or grounds maintenance
• Willingness to work outdoors in all seasons where])

Desirable

• Basic knowledge of plants or gardening
• Previous experience in a manual or outdoor role
• GCSEs in English and Maths
• Understanding of Health & Safety and Risk Assessments
• Full UK driving license

What we offer

• Competitive salary
• Private Health Care for everyone from day 1
• Generous pension scheme
• Life Assurance – 4x salary
• 22 days + a day to take on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve
• Free parking jalan>
• On-site artisan restaurant
• Discounted gym membership
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flu vaccines and eye care vouchers
• Buy or sell holiday scheme (opportunity to buy or sell up to 5 days)
• Christmas club saving
• MSC Cruises friends and family discount
• Full induction day and training provided
• Learning and development opportunities
• Dress for the day policy/modern office environment