Trainee Grounds Maintenance Assistant; apprenticeship development

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Trainee Grounds Maintenance Assistant (apprenticeship development role) )

Accommodation & Commercial Services

Grade 1 :

- £24,479 per annum

Open-Ended/Permanent
- Full Time

Working Arrangements :
Onsite working only

04-Nov-2026, 11:59:00 PM

Disclosure and Barring Service Requirement :
Not Applicable.

Job Title
:
Trainee Grounds Maintenance Assistant (development role)

Department
:
Estates and Facilities Directorate

Grade :
Grade 1

Salary range : £24,479

Working arrangements :
Full-time (35 hours)

Permanent

Five days from seven (primarily Monday to Friday), including day release at College to study for NVQ level 2 in Amenity Horticulture

Development role progressing from Grade 1 to Grade 2, subject to completion of relevant apprenticeship/qualification and achieving the required standards on an agreed personal development plan

Maybe required to work evenings and weekends as business demands

Onsite working only

Role will require physical activities and manual handling, including lifting and transporting materials and stock.

The University

At Durham University, we are proud of our people, because they are at the heart of our globally outstanding institution, which is a key part of our local community. We inspire our people to do extraordinary things and we invite you to join our fantastic team.

Across the University, we have a huge variety of roles and responsibilities, which together make us one large and successful community. Whether you are at the very start, middle or end of your career, there is a role for you. We believe everyone has their own unique skills to offer.

At the University we promote and actively champion equality, diversity and inclusion. It is crucial that everyone can be themselves and can flourish in an environment where everyone respects each other and is treated fairly. We want our people and wider community to feel happy, secure and proud to be a part of Durham. We are looking for the same values in you.

We welcome and encourage applications from members of groups who are under-represented in our work force including people with disabilities, women and black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. For more information on our EDI strategy and values,

The Role and Department

This role provides an excellent opportunity to begin a career in grounds maintenance and horticulture within one of the UK's leading universities. As a Trainee Grounds Maintenance Assistant, you will develop practical skills and experience while working alongside experienced professionals responsible for maintaining Durham University's stunning grounds, gardens and landscaped spaces. Combining hands‑on work with a structured apprenticeship programme, you will gain the knowledge, skills and qualifications needed to build a successful career in the sector.

Throughout your development journey, you will receive training, guidance and support to help you grow in confidence and capability while making a valued contribution to the University's estate.

Working across the University's extensive and diverse estate, you will learn how to undertake a wide range of grounds and gardening activities, from routine…