Grounds Operative (2 Positions Available)

University of Staffordshire | Stoke Campus | Grade 4

Help Create Outstanding Outdoor Spaces

We're looking for two Grounds Operatives to join our Grounds and Facilities team at the University of Staffordshire.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working outdoors, takes pride in maintaining high-quality environments and wants to make a visible difference every day.

As part of our team, you'll help create safe, attractive and welcoming outdoor spaces for students, colleagues and visitors. Your work will contribute directly to the experience of everyone who uses our campus.

What You'll Be Doing

You'll support the maintenance and improvement of the University's outdoor spaces by:

• Maintaining lawns, grassed areas, trees, shrubs, planted areas and ornamental beds
• Operating grounds maintenance machinery and equipment, including tractors and ride-on mowers
• Supporting sports pitch maintenance and landscaping projects
• Carrying out general external maintenance work
• Inspecting, cleaning and maintaining equipment and reporting any faults
• Keeping outdoor areas clean, safe and welcoming through litter collection and site inspections
• Following health and safety procedures and contributing to a positive customer experience

What You'll Bring

We're looking for someone with:

• Experience maintaining outdoor environments, such as grounds, landscapes, parks, estates or similar settings
• Knowledge of safe working practices and health and safety requirements
• Experience using grounds maintenance machinery or similar equipment
• A practical and reliable approach to work
• Good teamwork and communication skills
• A full UK driving licence

It Would Be Great If You Also Have

• A Level 2 or Level 3 horticultural qualification, or equivalent practical experience
• Experience maintaining sports pitches
• Knowledge of turf management
• Experience with ornamental planting and landscape maintenance

If you don't meet every desirable requirement but feel you have relevant skills or transferable experience, we'd still like to hear from you.

Why Join Us?

At the University of Staffordshire, you'll be part of a supportive team that takes pride in maintaining an environment where people can learn, work and thrive.

We offer:

• A supportive and welcoming team environment
• Induction and ongoing training
• Opportunities to develop your skills and experience
• The chance to contribute to a campus used by thousands of students, staff and visitors

Our Commitment to Inclusion

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, communities and career paths.

We recognise that valuable skills and experience can be gained in many different settings. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process or in the workplace, we'll work with you to provide appropriate support.

This role does not meet the criteria for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK without the need for sponsorship.

Closing Date: 24 Aug 2026

Department: Professional Support

Salary: £25,249 to £28,031 Per Annum - Full Time Permanent
Permanent

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join University of Staffordshire's dedicated Cleaning Team.

In September 2026, we will open our brand-new Student Village – a modern, high-quality accommodation development located alongside our Stoke campus. We are looking for enthusiastic and reliable individuals to help ensure this vibrant new community remains clean, welcoming and well-presented for our students.

This is an opportunity to contribute to an environment that students will be proud to call home while working as part of a supportive and friendly team.

About the Role

As a Cleaner, you will:

• Maintain high standards of cleanliness throughout student accommodation and communal areas
• Ensure facilities are clean, safe and welcoming for residents and visitors
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to deliver an excellent service
• Take pride in creating a positive living environment for students

Working Pattern

• 25 hours per week
• Monday to Friday
• Shift patterns of either: 
  • 10:00am – 3:00pm, or
  • 12:00pm – 5:00pm
• Flexibility is required, as you will need to work both shift patterns

About You

We are looking for individuals who:

• Have a strong work ethic and excellent attention to detail
• Take pride in delivering high standards
• Work well as part of a team
• Bring a positive and reliable approach to their work

Previous cleaning experience is desirable but not essential, as full training will be provided.

Right to Work

This role does not meet the criteria for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK without sponsorship.

Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to be part of an exciting new chapter for the University and play a key role in creating a clean, safe and welcoming home for our students.

If you're looking for a role where your contribution makes a real difference every day, we'd love to hear from you.

Application Information

The University reserves the right to close this vacancy early if sufficient applications are received. We therefore encourage early applications.

Please submit your CV and a covering letter to apply.

Apply now and join us on this exciting journey.

Closing Date: 09 Jul 2026

Department: Professional Support

Salary: £24,520 Per Annum Pro Rata