Trust Wide Grounds and Gardens Operative

For questions about this job, contact: Ben Williams, Estates Officer, Benedict.Williams@nhs.net. Shortlisting Date: 13/11/2026. Interview Date: 17/11/2026. All salaries listed reflect the pay for full time roles; any part time roles will be pro rata.

About the role

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an enthusiastic and motivated individual to join Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust as a Grounds and Gardens Maintenance Operative within the Estates & Facilities Department. The successful candidate will be part of the team delivering the maintenance and development of landscaped areas, trees, amenity grounds and external environments while ensuring compliance with health and safety legislation, Trust policies and environmental standards.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced horticultural professional who is passionate about maintaining and improving external environments within a complex healthcare setting to join a talented and effective team in the very heart of Leeds.

Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust operates under The Leeds Way values: Responsible, Open and Honest, One Team, Kind. Our purpose is excellent, safe and sustainable care for every patient every time. Our priorities are People, Improvement and Innovation, Partnerships, and Outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the delivery of the maintenance service for the Trust's external environment including horticultural, arboriculture and landscaping activities.
• Undertake tree maintenance operations with the safe use of chainsaws where qualified.
• Oversee pest recognition, treatment, and removal in accordance with current legislation.
• Maintain amenity and fine turf areas.
• Install and maintain irrigation systems in accordance with Legionella control requirements.
• Interpret plans, drawings and specifications when required.
• Utilise Estates management systems to record and update personal undertakings in relation to maintenance activities.
• Deliver critical adverse weather services including gritting and snow clearance.
• Adhere to good housekeeping standards and ensure external areas remain clean, safe and welcoming.
• Ensure personal compliance with Health & Safety, COSHH, Infection Prevention and Trust policies.
• Support service improvement initiatives and make suggestions to enhance service delivery.

Requirements

To comply with UK Government regulations on Skilled Worker sponsorship, Leeds Teaching Hosp