Groundsman (LMO/TS 2)

Job Purpose

Under the supervision of the Landscape/Grounds Supervisor, the Groundsman is responsible for landscaping and maintaining the King’s House grounds, to provide a pleasing backdrop for State, National and Civic ceremonies, Meetings, Visits, Tours and other events and activities undertaken by the Office. The areas include the outer and inner entrance ways to King’s House, inner roadways, Teardrop Garden, The Governor-General’s Garden, Ceremonial Garden, Hardwood Garden, Banyan Lawn, Ceremonial Lawn, West Lawn, Office areas and adjoining Car Parks and East Pastures. 

The Groundsman assists with the assigned preparation required for special events and functions at King’s House. The incumbent is expected to be consistent in projecting a professional image, as well as upholding high standards of service delivery. 

This role requires technical knowledge of agricultural production, crop rotation, harvesting procedures, food quality standards and the operation of farming tools and equipment. 

The incumbent seeks to achieve the job purpose by embracing, demonstrating and contributing to the Vision of the Office of His Excellency The Governor-General and Staff: “A culture of excellence through people, performance and partnerships”. 

Key Responsibilities

Technical/Professional: 

• Cuts and/or resuscitates lawns, prunes shrubs and trees; prepares garden beds and introduces new plants; 
• Applies chemicals and fertilizers by following established safety procedures, instructions and methodology; 
• Uses hand and power tools, such as power saw, brush cutter, shears and edge clippers to maintain the grounds. Carries out minor repairs of such equipment and tools;
• Transplants shrubs and other plants, using best practices to ensure proper horticultural care; 
• Weeds areas of landscape, planter boxes and maintains the greenhouse;
• Mulches, sprays, forks, trims edges, waters and prunes shrubs, trees, flowerbeds and potted plants as necessary, to ensure their health; 
• Maintains the assigned areas according to the work schedule implemented by the Supervisor; 
• Provides support for the installation of landscape designs for all areas of the property;
• Maintains borders and ensures that footpaths are clear and free from litter at all times, while undertaking general cleaning of the grounds by sweeping, raking, washing down areas, etc.; 
• Reports to the Supervisor, any faulty or damaged equipment or any potential hazard or untoward occurrences, within the property; 
• Assists with breaking down and refitting of rooms exterior spaces before and after events which take place at King’s House; 
• Assists with heavy lifting of furniture and/or equipment, as required; 
• Performs any other related duties as required. 

Required Knowledge, Skills and Competencies

• Able to use any related machinery and equipment 
• Knowledge of irrigation procedures which include when, where, why and how watering is carried out 
• Knowledge of caring for exotic and ornamental plants 
• Knowledge and understanding of horticulture and pest control 
• Keen eye for details 
• Loyal, composed, trustworthy and demonstrates impeccable integrity 
• Good interpersonal skills and ability to exercise initiative, and cope well under pressure
• Communicates effectively, both in oral and written forms, with persons at all levels
• Confidential and professional in personal conduct and execution of duties

Minimum Required Qualification and Experience

• Certificate in Horticulture, Landscaping and Agriculture or related discipline, from a recognized tertiary institution (certification by HEART Trust/NTA is desirable);
• Two (2) years related working experience in a comparable setting; 
• Experience operating agricultural tools and equipment. 

Special Conditions Associated with the Job

• This job is outdoors and direct exposure to varied weather conditions is to be expected (e.g. sun, rain, wind, heat, etc.); 
• The Groundsman is expected to take a non-traditional approach to working hours. This means that he or she may be required to work a flexible schedule, which will include, at times, long hours, working on weekends and Public Holidays; 
• This position requires co-ordinating with superiors to solve problems that arise, spending long hours on one’s feet and often having to lift heavy objects.

Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.