Job Title: Multiskilled Groundworker
Reports to: Buildings Manager
Department/Function: Buildings Team
Hours: Full Time
Location: Raby Castle, Park & Gardens
Salary: Competitive depending upon experience
Job Ref: VA236-2026
Raby Estate comprises substantial landholdings and diverse operations across County Durham and Shropshire. Raby Castle, Park & Gardens near Staindrop has been the home of the Vane family for generations and continues to grow as one of the foremost visitor attractions in the North.
The Estate includes in‑house farms, let farms, residential properties, heritage buildings, visitor attractions such as High Force Hotel and Waterfall, and various construction and maintenance projects.
Role Overview:
We are looking to recruit a hardworking and dedicated Multiskilled Groundworker to join our busy Buildings team. This role supports the refurbishment, maintenance, and presentation of residential properties, farmhouses, estate buildings, and surrounding grounds. The role also includes plumbing-related tasks.
What You will be doing:
- Grounds maintenance including grass cutting, strimming, hedge trimming, leaf clearance, and pathway upkeep.
- Supporting refurbishment and maintenance of estate buildings and residential properties.
- Assisting with first and second fix tasks such as basic carpentry, fencing, painting, and general repairs.
- Plumbing tasks including minor leak repairs, tap and fitting replacements, unblocking drains, and supporting water system maintenance.
- Labouring duties including material handling, site preparation, and assisting trades as required.
- Seasonal tasks such as winter gritting, snow clearance, and storm damage clean-up.
- Working safely and professionally on refurbishment projects across the Estate.
What to expect:
- You will be working in a public facing environment and be expected to be well presented at all times.
- The ability to work flexible hours is a must. Raby is particularly busy at weekends and during school holidays, so an ability to work these hours is essential.
- You will need a full, clean driving license.
You will need to have:
- A professional attitude and strong work ethic.
- Ability to work independently and show initiative.
- Good eye for detail and excellent timekeeping.
- Strong communication skills.
- Proven experience in grounds maintenance, building repairs, or related trades.
- Basic plumbing skills essential.
- Full UK driving licence.
- NVQ or relevant qualifications desirable but not essential.
- Experience working on traditional or heritage properties is an advantage.
What we have to offer
Its people that make a place, without people, a place is simply an empty shell. At Raby this is certainly true, it’s our people that make Raby special.
We strive to offer our employees an excellent working environment and the tools to perform, enabling them to achieve their goals and be the best they can be.
As well as some of the most iconic locations to work we offer:
- Attractive salary
- 33 days holiday, including statutory holidays (pro rata for Part Time Employees)
- Group Pension Scheme with a 7.7% employer contribution with the option to salary sacrifice
- Group Life Insurance
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Health Cash Plan
- Employee Assistance Program
- Buy/Sell Holiday Scheme
- Free on-site car parking
- Discounts at Raby retail and food outlets
- Discounts for stays at Raby’s High Force Hotel
- Complimentary access to Raby Castle and High Force leisure attractions
- A behind-the-scenes tour of Raby Castle
- Invitations to Raby Estate social events throughout the year
- A chance to work in one of the most unique and beautiful venues in the region
How to apply
If you would like to be part of our journey and you feel you have the necessary skills, experience and personality to undertake this role, we’d love to hear from you.
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