Job vacancies

Team Leader (Landscaping and Projects)

Department: Estates Services
Grade & Salary: Grade 5: £28,759 - £33,966 per annum
Location: South Lodge, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3RF
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time (36.5 hrs/week)

Apply here

About Us

At the heart of the world-renowned University of Oxford lies a commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability. We are proud to introduce you to our dynamic ecosystem, where the Estates Services team strategically manages our extensive functional and commercial estate, comprising 440 buildings and diverse facilities. From specialist research buildings to sports facilities, libraries to agricultural land, we are dedicated to preserving the historical while fostering innovation and sustainability in our ever-evolving campus.
 
Nurturing the green soul of our university is the University Parks Department, stewards of the beloved University Parks and the green spaces surrounding our departmental buildings. Established over 150 years ago, the Parks have grown into a vibrant oasis within our city, blending amenity and recreational spaces with an extensive collection of plants and trees. Home to various sporting activities, it's a cherished hub for both our university community and visitors from around the globe.
 
Together, these departments, under the umbrella of the University of Oxford, empower individuals and teams to tackle global challenges, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. We invite you to join us on a journey where tradition meets innovation, creating a sustainable, diverse, and vibrant community dedicated to making a difference in the world.

What We Offer

As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:
 
• Comprehensive in-house training program, including certifications in Pedestrian Powered Machinery, First Aid, and a range of other valuable training opportunities, to empower your skillset and career advancement
• An excellent contributory pension scheme for your financial future
• 38 days annual leave (inclusive of public holidays)
• Personal and professional development opportunities
• A comprehensive range of childcare services for working parents
• Generous family leave for pregnancy, adoption, paternity, and shared parental leave
• Cycle loan scheme to encourage sustainable commuting
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs

About the Role

We are looking for an energetic and ambitious Team Leader to join our landscaping department within the prestigious University of Oxford. As a Team Leader, your role will be pivotal in shaping and maintaining our iconic green spaces.

Key Responsibilities involve:

• Lead landscaping and planting projects across the University's prestigious sites
• Direct staff and contractors onsite to ensure efficient and high quality installation
• Operate machinery and equipment safely and efficiently
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure health and safety standards are met
• Order materials and equipment for jobs
• Inspect sites before and after works to ensure completion to brief
• Mentor and train apprentices and team members
• Deputise for supervisors as required

About You

As an integral member of our landscaping team at the University of Oxford, we are seeking an individual who embodies dedication, expertise, and a passion for green spaces. To excel in the role of Team Leader, you should possess the following qualifications and attributes:
 
You will have:
 
• A full, clean driving license is essential, as it is integral to the role.
• Hold a Level 2 Certificate in Horticulture/Arboriculture, or a related land-based occupation.
• Possess plant operator’s certification, demonstrating proficiency with various machinery such as excavators and dumpers.
• Proven experience in both soft and hard landscaping, coupled with a strong knowledge of landscaping practices.
• Possess a good understanding of a wide range of plants and a willingness to expand your horticultural knowledge.
• Exhibit the ability to take direction and work proactively, collaborating effectively with the management team.
• Demonstrate the capability to lead staff and subcontractors efficiently, ensuring high-quality project completion and maximizing team productivity.
• Embrace a flexible approach to your work and adapt to varying tasks and responsibilities.
• Exhibit excellent interpersonal skills, allowing you to lead when necessary and effectively pass on landscaping techniques and best practices.
• Possess the ability and willingness to mentor apprentices and train others as part of your role.

It would be desirable if you have:
 
• A Trailer License (B+BE) or have significant experience with large trailers.
• Possess a medium/large vehicle license (C or C1).
• Additional Certifications: Hold NPTC (or equivalent) qualifications, MEWP certification (IPAF 1(b)), forklift or telehandler certification, CAT Cable Detection Training, or CSCS Gold/Blue Card.

Application Process

To apply for this position, please submit the following documents as part of your online application:
• Covering letter/supporting statement
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Contact details of two referees (only contacted if you are successful)
 
Only applications received before 12 pm on Monday 16th October 2023 can be considered.
 
Interviews will take place in person on Monday 30th October 2023 and Tuesday 31st October 2023.

Senior Gardener

Department: Estates Services – Parks Department 
Grade & Salary: Grade 4: £25,138 - £28,759 per annum 
Location: Tentorium - South Lodge, South Parks Road Oxford OX1 3RF 
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time (36.5 hours/week)

Apply here

About Us

The University of Oxford's Estates Services oversees the management and strategic development of the University's extensive estate. This includes properties used for research, teaching, student accommodation, and commercial activities. Within Estates Services, the Parks Department is responsible for maintaining the beautiful green spaces that contribute to Oxford's unrivalled campus environment. This includes the maintenance of the iconic University Parks as well as the grounds surrounding department buildings across the estate.
 
The Parks Department team has established working relationships with Colleges and local organisations, offering high quality horticultural and arboricultural services. This contract work generates essential income to facilitate continued excellence in the care of the University's gardens and landscapes.
 
The Parks Department employs dedicated specialist staff and invests in advanced equipment to deliver their services to the highest standards. They are committed to sustainable practices and carbon reduction strategies. The department's work ensures that the University's staff, students, and visitors - whether part of the University community or tourists exploring the city of Oxford - can enjoy the University's exceptional gardens and parklands.

About the Role

As a Senior Gardener, you will play a pivotal role in the care and maintenance of the University Parks and the broader green estate. This position offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Oxford while contributing to the preservation and development of these cherished green spaces.

Key Responsibilities:

• Grounds Maintenance: You will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including mechanical and chemical weed control, sweeping, litter removal, clearance work, cultivations, and mulching. Your meticulous attention to detail will ensure that our grounds remain pristine and inviting.
• Horticultural Expertise: Pruning shrubs, climbers, and small trees, as well as caring for plantings through staking, training, and plant protection measures, will be a significant part of your role. Your green thumb and knowledge of plant care will be invaluable.
• Border Maintenance: You'll oversee the care of shrubs, herbaceous plants, and seasonal bedding, contributing to the ever-changing beauty of the green spaces you tend.
• Lawn Maintenance: Maintaining high-quality lawn areas through mowing, seasonal operations, and the application of fertilizers and herbicides will be essential to uphold the parks' standards.
• Equipment Operation: You'll safely operate a range of vehicles and machinery, ensuring routine maintenance and daily checks to guarantee optimal performance.
• Landscape Operations: Under supervision, you'll implement drawings, measure, and lay out designs and planting schemes, contributing to the aesthetic appeal of our green spaces.
• Leadership: Leading teams of staff on project work and routine tasks, you will ensure safe working practices are followed, fostering teamwork and cooperation.
• Mentorship: As part of our commitment to growth and development, you'll have the opportunity to mentor apprentices and other team members, sharing your expertise and helping them thrive in their roles.
• Deputizing: In the absence of Gardening Team Leaders, you may be called upon to step into leadership roles, showcasing your leadership and problem-solving abilities.
• Responsibility: You'll take ownership of an agreed-upon area of work or duty, demonstrating your dedication and accountability.

In this role, no two days will be the same, offering you a dynamic and engaging work environment. Your ability to adapt, lead, and inspire your team will be crucial in maintaining the high standards that define our green spaces.

If you have a passion for horticulture, a commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the University Parks, and a desire to make a lasting impact, we invite you to join our team as a Senior Gardener. Your dedication will contribute to the ongoing legacy of these iconic spaces.

About You

To thrive in this role, you should possess the following essential qualifications and attributes:
 
• A craft qualification in horticulture or relevant experience.
• PA1 and PA6 pesticide certification.
• A full, clean driving license.
• Proven horticultural background (other land-based backgrounds may be relevant).
• Good plant knowledge.
• Experience in the use and operation of various horticultural and grounds care equipment.
• A flexible and adaptable approach to work.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to lead and liaise efficiently with the management team.
• The drive to mentor apprentices and train others.
• The ability to take responsibility for an agreed area of work/duty.
 
While not required, the following qualifications and skills would be desirable:

• Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) license.
• Towing license.
• CSCS skills card for the construction industry.
• Plant operator’s certification (e.g., excavators, IPAF, dumpers, etc.).

What We Offer

As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:
 
• Comprehensive in-house training program, including certifications in Pedestrian Powered Machinery, First Aid, and a range of other valuable training opportunities, to empower your skillset and career advancement
• An excellent contributory pension scheme for your financial future
• 38 days annual leave (inclusive of public holidays)
• Personal and professional development opportunities
• A comprehensive range of childcare services for working parents
• Generous family leave for pregnancy, adoption, paternity, and shared parental leave
• Cycle loan scheme to encourage sustainable commuting
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs 

Application Process

To apply for this position, please submit the following documents as part of your online application:

• Covering letter/supporting statement
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Contact details of two referees (only contacted if you are successful)
 
Only applications received before 12pm on Friday 6th October 2023 can be considered.
 
Interviews are due to take place in person on Monday 16th October and Tuesday 17th October 2023
 

Gardener

Estates Services, South Lodge, South Parks Road, Oxford | Grade 3 - £22,681 - £25,138
Applications closing date and time: 19-Sept-2023 12:00
Interviews will be held in person on 25 September.

Apply here

About Us

The University of Oxford's Estates Services oversees the management and strategic development of the University's extensive estate. This includes properties used for research, teaching, student accommodation, and commercial activities.

Within Estates Services, the Parks Department is responsible for maintaining the beautiful green spaces that contribute to Oxford's unrivalled campus environment. This includes the maintenance of the iconic University Parks as well as the grounds surrounding department buildings across the estate.

The Parks Department team has established working relationships with Colleges and local organisations, offering high quality horticultural and arboricultural services. This contract work generates essential income to facilitate continued excellence in the care of the University's gardens and landscapes.

The Parks Department employs dedicated specialist staff and invests in advanced equipment to deliver their services to the highest standards. They are committed to sustainable practices and carbon reduction strategies.

The department's work ensures that the University's staff, students, and visitors - whether part of the University community or tourists exploring the city of Oxford - can enjoy the University's exceptional gardens and parklands.

What We Offer

As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:
 
• Comprehensive in-house training program, including certifications in Pedestrian Powered Machinery, First Aid, and a range of other valuable training opportunities, to empower your skillset and career advancement
• An excellent contributory pension scheme for your financial future
• 38 days annual leave (inclusive of public holidays)
• Personal and professional development opportunities
• A comprehensive range of childcare services for working parents
• Generous family leave for pregnancy, adoption, paternity, and shared parental leave
• Cycle loan scheme to encourage sustainable commuting
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs.

About the Role

We are looking for a skilled and enthusiastic Gardener to join our friendly team caring for the beautiful University Parks and green spaces across the University of Oxford estate. This is a full time permanent role reporting to the Team Supervisor. Your responsibilities will include:

• Perform general grounds maintenance tasks, including mechanical and chemical weed control, sweeping, litter removal, clearance work, cultivations, waste chipping/shredding, and mulching.
• Prune shrubs, climbers, and small trees.
• Assist with new plantings, including staking, tying, watering, and dead-heading.
• Maintain borders, caring for shrubs, herbaceous plants, and seasonal bedding.
• Manage turf, including mowing, spiking, top-dressing, overseeding, and more, using various equipment.
• Perform hedge maintenance, including planting, pruning, and cutting.
• Safely operate and maintain a wide range of vehicles and machinery.
• Collaborate on landscape and nursery projects as part of a team.
• Fulfil other duties as specified by the Parks management team.
• Use a mobile device for recording hours worked at various sites (equipment provided).

About You

You will have:
• Craft qualification (e.g., NVQ or City & Guilds) in horticulture or a related field.
• Demonstrated knowledge of horticultural practices.
• Experience with a broad range of horticultural, landscape, and grounds care equipment.
• Good plant knowledge.
• Full, clean driving licence.
• Flexible approach to work requirements
 
It would be desirable if you have:
• Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) licence.
• Towing licence.
• CSCS skills card for the construction industry.
• PA1 and PA6 Pesticide certification.

Application Process

To apply for this position, please submit the following documents as part of your online application:

• Covering letter/supporting statement
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Contact details of two referees (only contacted if you are successful)
 
Only applications received before 12 pm on Tuesday 19th September 2023 can be considered.
 
Interviews will take place during week commencing 25th September 2023 and will be face to face.

Horticulture Team Supervisor (Training & Development)

Estates Services, South Lodge, South Parks Road, Oxford | Grade 6 - £32,332 - 38,205
Applications closing date and time: 01-Oct-2023 12:00
Interviews will be held in person on 09 October

Apply here

About Us

Are you ready to be part of the driving force in the University Parks Team at the University of Oxford? Join our dedicated team responsible for nurturing and maintaining the University's green spaces and landscapes. As the Team Supervisor for Training and Development, you will be at the forefront of fostering growth and excellence within our team. We are seeking a leader with a passion for horticulture and a commitment to developing talent.

What we can offer:  

As an employer, we value the well-being and development of all our employees. We offer a comprehensive range of benefits, including:

  • 30 days of annual leave (excluding public holidays)
  • Extensive personal and professional development opportunities
  • Supportive childcare services for working parents and guardians
  • Generous family leave for pregnancy, adoption, paternity, and shared parental leave
  • Excellent contributory pension scheme for your financial future
  • Salary sacrifice scheme for additional savings
  • Subsidised sports centre membership to promote well-being
  • Cycle loan scheme to encourage sustainable commuting
  • Discounted bus and transit travel
  • In addition, you will have access to a vibrant community with social groups and sports clubs, fostering an inclusive atmosphere.

Role Impact 

As a Team Supervisor, you will play a pivotal role in nurturing a skilled and diverse workforce within the Estates Services – Parks Department. Your responsibilities will encompass:

  • Guiding and mentoring apprentices, fostering their growth and development
  • Designing and implementing comprehensive training plans
  • Ensuring a safe work environment through effective health and safety management
  • Supervising a range of practical horticultural tasks and staff members
  • Leading and collaborating with teams, encouraging best practices
  • Managing the on-site nursery, imparting knowledge about successful propagation and cultivation

Selection Criteria 

We are looking for candidates who embody our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and excellence. The following skills and attributes are essential:

  • Relevant qualification or degree in horticulture or demonstrated experience
  • Supervisory experience, guiding and inspiring teams
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Organisational prowess, decision-making abilities, and problem-solving skills
  • Enthusiasm for continuous learning and professional development
  • Basic IT skills, including Outlook, Word, and Excel

Benefits of Joining 

Apart from being part of a dynamic and inclusive work community, you will enjoy ample opportunities for personal and professional growth. We offer a supportive work environment where your contributions are valued, and innovation is encouraged.

Application Process:

To apply for this position, please submit the following documents as part of your online application:

  • Covering letter/supporting statement
  • Curriculum vitae (CV)
  • Contact details of two referees (only contacted if you are successful)
  • Only applications received before 12 pm on 01 October can be considered.

Interviews will be held in person on 09 October.

Bring your expertise to the University of Oxford and be a part of a community that values creativity, diversity, and excellence.

The University of Oxford is an equal-opportunity employer and welcomes applications from individuals regardless of their background.