Somerset Council
Cleansing Operative
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Closing date: 18 August 2026
Salary: Grade 15 - £24,796 to £25,185 per annum
Be part of the team that keeps Somerset looking its best.
As a Cleansing Operative, you’ll help keep Somerset’s streets, parks and public spaces clean, safe and welcoming for everyone. Whether you’re removing litter, emptying bins or supporting day-to-day environmental services, your work will make a real difference to local communities. This is a hands-on role where you’ll be out and about, working as part of a friendly team and playing an important part in looking after the places people live, work and visit. At Somerset Council, you’ll be supported to do your best work in a role that’s practical, meaningful and valued.
Role Summary
The Cleansing Operative is responsible for helping to keep Somerset’s streets, parks and public spaces clean, safe and well maintained. The role supports the delivery of day-to-day environmental services that local communities rely on.
Carrying out a range of practical outdoor tasks, the postholder works as part of a team to maintain high standards across public areas while providing a reliable and efficient service. The role contributes to making Somerset a pleasant place to live, work and visit, while supporting the council’s commitment to delivering essential frontline services.
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What you'll do - Key Responsibilities
- Carry out street cleansing operations across Somerset including litter picking, hand sweeping, bin emptying, fly tip removal and toilet cleaning
- Work as part of a street cleansing team to enhance and maintain the environment with minimal disruption to customers
- Drive non-LGV vehicles and operate machinery as required to support service delivery
- Carry out basic care and maintenance of vehicles and equipment, including daily checks and reporting defects
- Ensure vehicles and equipment are kept clean, safe and in good working condition
- Report back to supervisors on work completed and any issues identified
- Follow all health and safety requirements, taking responsibility for your own safety and that of others
- Operate tools and equipment safely in line with training and manufacturer guidance
- Maintain accurate records including timesheets, inspection logs, and defect reporting forms
- Contribute to delivering an efficient, reliable and customer-focused service
Knowledge, Experience, Skills and Qualifications
- Experience of working in a practical, hands-on role, ideally as part of a team delivering frontline or environmental services.
- Understanding of the importance of maintaining clean, safe public environments and working safely in public spaces.
- Ability to work independently, manage workloads effectively, and follow instructions when operating tools, machinery and equipment.
- Good communication skills and the ability to interact professionally with colleagues, supervisors and members of the public.
- Basic literacy and numeracy skills, with the ability to maintain accurate records and complete routine paperwork.
- Ability to carry out vehicle and equipment checks and report any defects or issues
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Additional Information
- 25 days’ annual leave, plus bank holidays
- Permanent role – 37 hours per week
- Two shift patterns available: Monday to Friday, or Saturday to Wednesday
- A generous benefits package that supports your wellbeing, work-life balance and ongoing development
Regretfully, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.
For an informal chat about the role, you can contact Dave Williams, Area Supervisor at dave.williams@somerset.gov.uk
SCG1303 Cleansing Operative.pdf
Job ref: 1178/DT
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