Daily Head Groundsman / Handyman for Private Estate
An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Head Groundsman / Handyman to join a dedicated team on a large privately owned country estate near Cheltenham. Reporting to the Estate Manager, this role involves the management and upkeep of extensive grounds, including 10 acres of formal gardens (herb garden, rose garden, herbaceous borders) and 100 acres of woodland, lakes, and surrounding estate land.This estate is a holiday residence for a British businessman and his family and is not their primary home. The role requires someone who can work independently while also collaborating with an existing team of gardeners. Due to the rural location, candidates must have their own transport as there is no public transport access.
- Gardener
- Full Time
- TC329
- Cheltenham
Vacancy Description
Family Description & Location
An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Head Groundsman / Handyman to join a dedicated team on a large privately owned country estate near Cheltenham. Reporting to the Estate Manager, this role involves the management and upkeep of extensive grounds, including 10 acres of formal gardens (herb garden, rose garden, herbaceous borders) and 100 acres of woodland, lakes, and surrounding estate land.
This estate is a holiday residence for a British businessman and his family and is not their primary home. The role requires someone who can work independently while also collaborating with an existing team of gardeners. Due to the rural location, candidates must have their own transport as there is no public transport access.
Job Description
- Oversee and maintain all aspects of the estate grounds and property maintenance, ensuring high standards at all times.
- Manage and lead a small, multi-skilled team, providing direction and hands-on support where needed.
- Carry out general property maintenance including pathways, driveways, fencing, and estate infrastructure.
- Maintain and operate large estate machinery (mowers, tractors, chainsaws, etc.), ensuring servicing and upkeep.
- Work alongside contractors, coordinating external trades and service providers as required.
- Occasionally assist with key holder duties, including out-of-hours attendance if needed.
- Provide seasonal upkeep including gritting in winter, leaf clearance in autumn, and general landscaping.
- Travel on an ad hoc basis to work on additional estate properties if required.
Candidate Requirements
- Physically fit and capable of manual outdoor work in all weather conditions.
- Full UK driving licence (essential due to the rural location).
- Strong experience in grounds and property maintenance, ideally in a private estate or similar environment.
- Confident in using large machinery (tractors, ride-on mowers, chainsaws – certification preferred but not essential).
- Experience in basic plumbing and electrical work is beneficial.
- Comfortable working at heights when required.
- Experience in weed management (PA1 and PA6 spraying certificates advantageous).
- Understanding of Health & Safety regulations and First Aid training (or willingness to undertake training).
Working Hours & Salary
- Monday – Friday, 40 hours per week.
- Salary: £35,000 - £40,000 per annum, negotiable depending on experience, references, and skill set.
This role is ideal for a hands-on, experienced Groundsman with leadership skills who enjoys working in a beautiful countryside setting. If you meet the above requirements and are looking for a long-term position within a prestigious private estate, we would love to hear from you!