Job Title: Gardener 1 Directorate: Initially inCommunity & Wellbeing however may be required to work in any Directorate in the Council Department: InitiallyinParks & Cemeteries however, may be required to work in any Directorate in the Council Location: Throughout the Borough Reports to: Team Leader - Parks and Cemeteries Salary Scale: Scale 3 SCP 6 - 7 Car Status: Use of Council Vehicle PURPOSE AND FUNCTION OF THE POST: To undertake detailed horticultural duties and tasks ensuring all areas are well maintained, attractive and tidy. PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES; Undertake horticultural and associated maintenance within parks and open spaces to include planning planting, fertilising, weed control, grass cutting, pruning, tree planting and maintenance, leaf collection, cleansing, maintenance of bedding displays, provision of indoor floral planting, seeding and turfing. Identification of horticultural pests, diseases and disorders. Interpretation of plans and layouts. Safe and proper storage and selection of chemicals and spraying equipment and the accurate calibration of same. Compliance with legislation and best practice with regard to chemical usage and record keeping. Preparation and maintenance of sports facilities including setting out and line marking. Undertaking guidance of other team members as required in the performance of horticultural duties. The operation of vehicles and associated equipment to include trailers, grass cutting machinery, cultivation equipment, and sports-turf maintenance equipment. Operation of such equipment in a safe, secure and proper manner. Completion of daily vehicle checks and recording of same and reporting of defects before commencing work. Cleaning and lubrication of vehicles and equipment as required. Undertake traffic management signage and lane closures as required. Ensuring health and safety and risk assessments is/are fully considered for all allocated tasks as appropriate. Act as key holder as required. Ensure appropriate use of IT Equipment and mobile phones where supplied. Carry out cemetery duties as and when required, including weekends and public holidays. To comply with and promote equality, health and safety in accordance with Council Policies and legal requirement. Undertake any other duties consistent with the level and nature of the post that may be allocated by parks and cemeteries management to include the interchange of duties to cover leave, employee vacancies or illness. To undertake duties outside normal working hours to reflect the needs of the service including weekends and public holidays. ARDS AND NORTH DOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL PERSON SPECIFICATION The person specification provides information on the qualifications, experience, knowledge and skills required to carry out the duties of the post. The essential criteria will be used for shortlisting and as part of the selection process. CATEGORY QUALIFICATIONS ESSENTIAL NVQ Level 2 in Horticulture/Turf Culture or equivalent PA1/PA6 Certificate of Competence in the application of Pesticides DESIRABLE NVQ Level 3 in Horticulture or equivalent EXPERIENCE ESSENTIAL 2 Years relevant experience working in a horticultural environment with a public interface DESIRABLE Previous supervisory experience KEY SKILLS & ABILITIES ESSENTIAL To be a good team worker DESIRABLE Understanding and appreciation of the needs of the Public OTHER REQUIREMENTS A valid driving licence to include categories C1E. Candidates without C1E must complete this classification within 12 months of appointment. Prepared to work outside normal hours, including weekends and public holidays A driving assessment by Council will form part of the selection process Appointment will be subject to completion of a medical questionnaire including a pre-employment Drugs and Alcohol Screening Please note reasonable adjustments will be considered specifically for applicants with disabilities, who because of their disability, are unable to hold a valid driving licence. The selection panel reserves the right to enhance the shortlisting criteria to facilitate the process when necessary.