Estate Operative (Grounds Maintenance)

We’re a values-driven, charitable organisation on a mission to make a real difference in Sunderland. Every day, we provide more than 60,000 people with a place they’re proud to call home.

Our vision is clear: everyone deserves a good-quality home they can afford. We invest millions of pounds each year to keep our homes safe and decent, while also playing a part in tackling the UK housing crisis by building hundreds of modern, energy-efficient homes for rent right here in Sunderland.

If you share our passion for creating thriving communities and want to be part of something that truly matters, we’d love for you to join us and help achieve our vision.

If you have any accessibility needs or require adjustments, please let us know—we’re here to support you.

We may close this vacancy earlier than the advertised closing date if we receive a large number of applications. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible to ensure your application is considered.

Are you passionate about working outdoors and making a real difference in your community? We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Estate Operative to join our dedicated grounds maintenance team at Gentoo.

A full UK driver's licence and a basic DBS check (arranged and funded by Gentoo) are required for this position.

What you will be doing:

As an Estate Operative, you’ll play a vital role in keeping our neighbourhoods and communal areas looking their best for our customers. You’ll work both independently and as part of a supportive, experienced team—rain or shine! Your main responsibilities will include:

Grass cutting, hedge trimming, pruning, strimming, and clearing leaves, litter, or debris.

General maintenance of grounds, landscaped areas, open spaces, and customer properties using mechanical equipment and materials.

Using a hand-held scheduling device and completing all related documentation.

Why join Gentoo?

Annualised hours—40 hours per week in summer, 29 hours per week in winter.

Work with experienced colleagues who share best practices and technical knowledge.

Access to training opportunities and clear pathways for career progression within Gentoo.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace.

What we are looking for:

A full UK driver’s licence (essential).

Experience in grounds maintenance.

Pride in your work and a keen eye for detail.

Willingness to learn and develop new skills, including completing relevant training and qualifications.

Desirable (but not essential)

Experience with horticultural plants and machinery, and knowledge of best practices.

Experience driving and towing machinery.

Familiarity with app-based scheduling systems.

COSHH and Health & Safety knowledge in a horticultural environment.

Knowledge of Sunderland and the surrounding area.

Some of our great benefits include:

• 31 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) with an option to purchase up to 5 additional days per year.

• Early finish on Fridays

• Flexible and hybrid working.

• Free Health Cash Plan, with cashback for dental, optical, physio, wellbeing therapies and more, with some free child cover.