Estates Operative (Maintenance & Grounds) - Part-Time

As an Estates Operative (Maintenance & Grounds), you’ll play a vital role in maintaining and enhancing both the buildings and outdoor spaces across our brand new, contemporary retirement village in West Byfleet. This is a part-time role (19.5 hours per week) reporting into the Facilities Manager. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of the opening team at a modern, thoughtfully designed site where you’ll help shape an environment that’s attractive, safe, and enjoyable for residents, customers, and visitors - supporting our mission to create communities where everyone has the opportunity to age well.

Key Responsibilities

Maintenance & Facilities

• Carry out scheduled maintenance and inspections of village structures, fixtures, fittings, and equipment.
• Report faults or damage promptly to the Facilities Manager or General Manager.
• Regularly test alarm and safety systems, recording and escalating any issues.
• Support repairs and upkeep of communal areas, benches, and outdoor structures.
• Maintain tools and equipment in good working order, ensuring safe and tidy storage.
• Assist with compliance checks and maintain accurate records.

Grounds & Landscaping

• Maintain all outdoor areas, including lawns, beds, woodlands, boundaries, roadways, and paths.
• Mow lawns, trim hedges, prune trees, and plant or care for shrubs and flowers to maintain a high-quality appearance.
• Identify and treat plant health issues in line with RVG’s sustainability and environmental guidelines.
• Operate and maintain irrigation systems; water manually as needed.
• Keep all walkways, paved areas, and hardscaping safe, clear, and accessible - including snow and ice removal when required.

Health, Safety & Teamwork

• Follow all Health & Safety and COSHH procedures; use only approved materials
• Maintain spraying and chemical-use records accurately
• Participate in emergency response duties, including first aid and liaison with emergency services when trained
• Support colleagues, share knowledge, and contribute to a positive, inclusive team culture that reflects RVG’s values
• Provide out-of-hours emergency cover as part of a rota

Skills & Attributes

• Strong customer focus and commitment to providing an excellent service
• Reliable, proactive, and able to prioritise work effectively
• Good teamwork and communication skills
• Practical problem-solving ability and attention to detail
• Willingness to learn and continuously improve

Experience & Qualifications

• 1–3 years’ experience in gardening, landscaping, maintenance, or a related field.
• Physical stamina to perform outdoor and manual work.
• Awareness of Health & Safety and COSHH guidelines (training provided).