Grounds Maintenance Operative

OCS Group; Brighton; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A facilities management organization is seeking a Grounds Maintenance Operative in Brighton. The role involves maintaining high standards in grounds upkeep, operating equipment safely, and ensuring health and safety compliance. Candidates should have grounds maintenance experience, a valid UK driving license, and a practical approach to work. The position entails both physical tasks and teamwork, making it essential to manage time effectively and maintain high standards for campus users.

Qualifications

• Must have Right to Work in the UK.
• A DBS will be completed for the successful candidate.
• Practical experience in grounds maintenance on a large estate.

Responsibilities

• Perform general grounds maintenance to a high standard.
• Safely operate and maintain grounds machinery.
• Promote health and safety and comply with SEF QSHE requirements.

Skills

Grounds maintenance experience

Team working ability

Knowledge of equipment safety

Time management

Positive attitude

Education

Good basic education with English and numerical skills

Full UK Driving Licence

Tools

Horticultural equipment

Ride-on mowers

Tractors

Job description

About The Company:

This recruitment campaign is being managed by OCS Group UK on behalf of Sussex Estates and Facilities LLP (SEF) - which is a partnership formed between OCS and the University of Sussex. SEF is the direct employer for this role and is responsible for delivering facilities management services across the University of Sussex estate.

OCS is proud to partner with the University of Sussex in this long-term collaboration. With a workforce of over 50,000 colleagues and a turnover exceeding £2 billion, OCS is a market leader in delivering innovative and award-winning services across facilities management, including hard services, cleaning, security, and catering. These strengths underpin our commitment to excellence in the SEF partnership.

Our shared mission is to enhance the University campus by ensuring it operates smoothly and efficiently, aligning with the University's values and commitment to sustainability. Together, we are dedicated to making the campus a better place for students, staff, and the broader community. The partnership is built on the core values of Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment, guiding how we work and deliver services.

Please note: The employing organisation for this role will be Sussex Estates and Facilities LLP.

About The Role:

Days of Working: Monday - Friday, occasional weekends as required.

Undertake general grounds maintenance duties - ensuring a very high standard of work is always maintained.

Maintenance duties are to include both mechanical and manual operations and will cover the broad spectrum of grounds maintenance.

Responsible for the health and safety of themselves, their work colleagues and others who may be affected by their activity, working in accordance with the safety policies of Sussex Estates Facilities.

This is a highly physical role, working in all weathers, and the candidate will need to demonstrate a strong work ethic, common sense and a practical approach. Experience of working within the farming industry and operating and servicing horticultural equipment would be advantages.

As part of your role, your key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Perform general grounds maintenance to a high standard, including both mechanical and manual tasks.
• Maintain amenity lawns, high-profile areas, and off-campus gardens.
• Carry out soil cultivation, planting, pruning, mulching, watering, and weeding.
• Undertake weed and moss control and keep paths and borders clear of litter.
• Safely operate and maintain grounds machinery (ride‑on mowers, tractors, trimmers, leaf blowers).
• Empty litter bins according to schedules.
• Perform gritting and snow clearing duties when required.
• Ensure safe use, storage, and disposal of pesticides.
• Maintain a clean and secure work area and yard.
• Promote health and safety and comply with SEF QSHE requirements.
• Support biodiversity and sustainability initiatives.
• Assist with manual tasks and other duties as directed.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate should meet the following criteria:

• Must have Right to Work in the UK.
• A DBS will be completed for the successful candidate.
• Good basic education with English and numerical skills.
• Full UK Driving Licence.
• Practical experience in grounds maintenance on a large estate.
• Hands‑on team working ability.
• Good knowledge of grounds maintenance operations and safe equipment use.
• Ability to manage time effectively and work well in a team.
• Understanding the importance of maintaining high standards for campus users.
• Positive attitude, responsive to deadlines and customer requests.

Desirable

• Lantra/NPTC qualifications for powered and ride‑on equipment.
• Previous employment in land‑based industry.
• Advanced knowledge of grounds maintenance and machinery repair.
• Tractor driving experience.
• Experience working in educational, public, or private sectors.

How to Apply:

If you are interested in joining a business that encourages professional development, career progression and the chance to work with inspirational people then please click apply and register your interest! You can also sign up to our job alerts when registering which will notify you when other suitable vacancies are available.

We are an equal opportunities employer and rely on a diverse workforce with a broad range of knowledge, skills, and backgrounds to deliver our goals. We offer an inclusive and welcoming environment and actively encourage applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or age.