Estates Operative
Are you practical, hands-on, and take pride in a job well done? We’re looking for someone join our small but highly effective estates team, helping to care for and develop our beautiful Forest estate.
About the role
The Charity’s estate is spread out (with many parts not contiguous) across the Warwickshire and Worcestershire borders. This is a varied and active role where no two days are the same. From fixing gates and maintaining land to responding to urgent repairs, you’ll play a vital role in keeping the estate running smoothly and safely.
What You’ll Be Doing
As part of the Estates team, you’ll be involved in a wide range of tasks, including:
Maintenance & Land Care
- Maintaining estate infrastructure such as fencing, gates, tracks, and bridges
- Carrying out groundworks, drainage and water supply tasks
- Supporting land management activities (mowing, hedgerow cutting, path maintenance, site clearance)
- Handling general building upkeep such as painting, minor plumbing, and repairs
Repairs & Problem Solving
- Responding to repair requests across the estate
- Diagnosing faults such as leaks or damaged infrastructure
- Fixing locks, facilities, and general estate issues
Working Across the Estate
- Operating agricultural vehicles, tools, and machinery
- Collaborating with colleagues and external contractors
- Identifying risks and helping prioritise solutions
- Supporting wider organisational activities when needed
What We’re Looking For:
Essential:
- Experience in maintenance, labouring, or land-based work
- Confidence using tools, machinery, and equipment
- A practical, problem-solving mindset with attention to quality
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
- Strong awareness of health & safety
- Full manual driving licence
Desirable:
- Experience in fencing, groundworks, or plant operation
- Tractor and agricultural implement experience
- Basic plumbing or woodworking skills
- Land management qualifications (or willingness to gain them)
The Heart of England Forest is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. Applicants must be willing to undergo protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and an enhanced DBS disclosure.
If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and get stuck into meaningful, hands-on work, we’d love to hear from you. Please download our candidate pack to find out more!
Apply
To apply for this role, please send your CV and a supporting statement describing 2 or 3 examples of projects/jobs you've completed which would help support your application max. 500 words (one side of A4).
As part of our EDI monitoring to check our recruitment reaches the widest audience possible, we would be grateful if you could also submit an EDI form (this will anonymised and kept separate from your application)
Please submit these to jobs@heartofenglandforest.org.
