Garden Team Leader

The role

We are looking for a motivated Garden Team Leader to join our friendly and supportive team to help maintain the diverse outdoor spaces of the University. Enjoy the benefits of a 35 hour working week with generous holiday allowance (including 7 University closure days) and a positive and flexible working culture.

This is a hands-on practical role where you can combine horticultural expertise with team leadership to help create attractive and inspiring environments for our students, staff and the public to enjoy. 

What will you be doing?

As Garden Team Leader, you will:

• Lead, organise and motivate a team to deliver high-quality seasonal grounds maintenance
• Plan and prioritise workloads to ensure work is completed safely and on time
• Carry out and oversee horticultural tasks including planting, pruning, weeding and landscaping
• Maintain gardens, hard surfaces and open spaces to professional standards
• Deliver team briefings and help to support staff development and training
• Adhere to health & safety policy on-site, including COSHH and risk assessments
• Operate and oversee the safe use of machinery, tools and vehicles
• Respond to changing conditions (e.g. weather or operational priorities)
• Liaise with colleagues across the University to maintain high service standards
• Deputise for the Grounds Coordinator when required

You’ll lead from the front — setting standards, supporting your team and ensuring continuous improvement across all activities. 

You should apply if

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has strong experience in horticulture, gardens or grounds maintenance
• Has proven experience supervising or leading a team
• Has relevant operational qualifications (e.g. NPTC, LANTRA)
• Demonstrates strong organisational and problem-solving skills
• Has a good understanding of health and safety practices
• Communicates effectively and works collaboratively
• Holds a full UK driving licence (as some duties would not be easily completed via public transport only)

Additional information

Contract type: Open ended

Work pattern: Full time (35 hours)

Grade: E

Salary: £26,093 - £28,778 per annum

School/Unit: Campus Division - External Estates

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on: Tuesday 1st September

For informal queries please contact: Joe Clarke on 07811 940 334, [email protected]   

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