Apprentice Groundsperson
The Role will be part of Gardens Department and report to the Head Gardener.
About us
The estate has been part of the Scottish Borders since 1358. Everything we do, is to ensure that we continue into the next millennium. Through our longevity we have developed deep connections with the land and its people and we are guided by the principle that our operations benefit the health of the environment and the prosperity of local communities. We are not just enduring; we will constantly innovate and grow to maximise the potential of the region and land under our care so we will be a source of inspiration and a model estate for the 21st Century.
Passionate People
It takes a certain sort of person to flourish in such a fast-paced, multi-dimensional environment like Floors Castle. We look for talented, self-motivated and enthusiastic individuals who will be able to share our passion for providing a warm welcome and amazing experiences.
Our Values
Custodians Community Authenticity Drive Warmth
“To understand, improve and develop our natural, heritage and built environments, allowing them to flourish as sustainable businesses capable of making significant contributions to a vibrant Borders community, now and for generations to come.”
Purpose of the role
Working under the tutorage of our Groundsman you will be involved in the maintenance and improvement of the Grounds and wider policies of Floors Castle. You will also work with the Gardens Team maintaining the walled garden to the very highest standards possible.
Key responsibilities
· To maintain all areas of lawn within the grounds of the Castle and Walled Gardens to a high standard, repairing damage to lawns and edges as necessary.
· To assist in the preparation and implementation of annual lawn management and renovation programmes.
· To maintain areas of long grass within the grounds, strimming as and where necessary.
· To maintain the pathways throughout the grounds.
· To help maintain machinery and equipment, ensuring machinery is kept clean & tidy generally in good condition.
· To keep lawns and pathways clear of leaves with leaf blowing machine and collection and disposal of.
· To regularly spray weeds on hard standing areas, gravel and for lawn care, ensuring that health & safety guidelines for working with pesticides are strictly followed (training provided).
· To check and empty rubbish bins and carry out litter picking.
· To assist in the Walled Gardens when instructed to do so
· During winter months ensure roads within the Estate are clear of snow and/or frost by salt spreading
· Keep the workplace tidy and orderly to ensure a safe working environment.
· To be adaptable and able to work both on your own and within a team.
Qualities you will possess
· Passion for what you do
· Positive and friendly with a “can do attitude”
· Attention to detail
· Ability to prioritise and organise
· Proactive
· Confident and desire to learn new skillls
· Excellent communicator
· A sense of fun!
· Take responsibility for yourself
What do you need to be successful?
· Attention to detail, a professional and mature outlook – a desire to be the best within your field of expertise
· Able to demonstrate affinity with machinery, repairing and maintenance with ability to learn quickly
· A positive mindset with a passion for your work, plants, grass and trees and the countryside
· Able to demonstrate you are a team player, yet also happy to work on your own
For more information, or to apply for this role, please send a CV and covering letter, detailing your suitability for the role to hr@floorscastle.com
Salary: Apprentice rate of £7.55 per hour
Hours of work: Full-time averaging 39 hours per week, Monday to Friday, between the hours of 8.00 a.m. and 5.00pm, during the summer months and 8.00am – 4.00pm during the winter months.
Modern Apprenticeship: There is the opportunity to study Modern Apprenticeship Horticulture - SCQF Level 5 at Borders College Newtown Campus.
Benefits:
· Discounted or free food
· Employee discount
· On – site free parking
· Pension
Job Types: Full-time, Apprenticeship
Pay: £7.55 per hour
Expected hours: 39 per week
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Schedule:
Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 12/03/2025