University of Leeds
Grounds & Gardens Assistant
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Grounds Maintenance Operator
Location: University of Leeds campus Working Hours: 35 hours per week (Mon-Fri: 7.30am–3pm; 1 Saturday in 4) Note: Flexibility required due to seasonal variations and university events (eg degree ceremonies)
About the Role
This role involves maintaining the University of Leeds’ external estate, including grounds, gardens, and support services, ensuring a visually appealing and well-kept environment.
You’ll work as part of a growing team, contributing to activities like:
- General external maintenance and repairs
- Support for university events (open days, conferences, ceremonies)
Successful applicants will showcase:
- Proven experience in grounds maintenance
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues
While an interest in horticulture is advantageous, full training will be provided.
Given the role’s nature, tasks will require:
- Significant manual handling
- Outdoor work across all weather conditions
Responsibilities
- Maintenance & Horticulture:
- Upkeep of gardens, grass areas, and landscaping
- Planting, mulching, and seasonal maintenance
- Grounds Support:
- Pathway and hard surface repairs
- General tidying and waste management
- Event & Facility Support:
- Temporary fixtures (e.g. for events)
- Assisting with set-up of university-organised occasions
- Flexibility & Availability:
- Expected weekday hours: Mon-Fri, 7:30am–3pm
- Approximately 1 Saturday per 4 starting at weekday hours (may adjust for duties)
- Seasonal Adjustments:
- Reduced hours in winter, increased demands in peak seasons
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Requirements
Essential
✅ Grounds maintenance experience attained through education or employment ✅ Ability to build and sustain effective working relationships ✅ Availability to carry out manual handling of shared equipment/materials ✅ Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions
Desirable
✔ Prior experience with university or academic institutional settings ✔ Horticulture-related qualifications or experience (training provided otherwise)
Benefits
🔸 Holiday: 26 paid days + 16 Uni-custom closure days (≈42 days annually) 🔸 Flexible & populated hours (5 days spread over 7), with possible seasonal adjustments 🔸 Generous pension options including employer-supported life assurance 🔸 Health & Wellbeing:
- Discounted gym fitness membership at The Edge (pool, sauna, climbing wall, cycling circuit)
- On-site wellbeing resources
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🔸 Professional Development:
- Free access to training programmes via our Organisational Development & Professional Learning team
🔸 Employee Perks:
- Access to on-site childcare (where applicable)
- Discounted shopping/shopping portal
- Travel season ticket loans and discounts
🔸 A positive, interactive team with personal career advancement support
Additional Notes
- This role does not qualify for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Further visa guidance: Visas & Immigration: Work Visas
Contact
For queries or further details, email James Wright, Senior Maintenance Manager: j.r.wright@leeds.ac.uk
Please also note the Pre-employment Health Assessment instructions listed in the Candidate Briefing.
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