Skilled Gardener

Skilled Gardener required

A rare and wonderful opportunity has arisen for a qualified and experienced horticulturist to join an historic estate in west Oxfordshire.  This opening will suit a horticulturist with exceptional plant knowledge, particularly of glasshouse and border work.  The role is offered with a generous salary and first-class accommodation by way of a three-bedroom property at a significantly reduced rate of approximately £200/month, if required.

The majestic eighteenth-century country house is surrounded by parkland and pleasure gardens with stunning woodland walks, one of which leads to one of Britain’s finest water gardens.   The original walled kitchen garden remains and provides shelter to an area that exemplifies ornamental gardening through each of the four seasons.  Great expanses of lawn, large mature trees and considered ornamental planting allow the formal Italianate garden style to be highlighted further by the traditional English parkland landscape.  Specimen trees and sculptures provide perspective as the eye is drawn along avenues that culminate at a pinpoint in the distance, with undulating landscape and vistas at every turn. 

A small team of skilled gardeners (full and part-time) care for the gardens with great attention to detail for the benefit of the owners and the visiting public, the latter being invited to explore the estate every other weekend between April and September each year.  This vacancy has arisen due to the current skilled horticulturist returning home to France in July, thereby leaving an opportunity for the successful applicant to be rewarded by way of generous and considerate employers in addition to the unique and spectacular gardens.

Suitable candidates for this role will hold an academic horticultural qualification at RHS Level 3 or above/equivalent in addition to extensive practical experience in private estate gardens.  The focus of this role is fine horticulture, so excellent plant identification skills are essential in addition to a thorough understanding of garden management principles throughout the seasons.  As the estate is open to the public, a willingness and ability of applicants to confidently hold discussions and present to the visiting public on occasion would be a considerable advantage.  Applicants should be flexible, energetic and cooperative in nature with a positive and friendly outlook and must always be presentable.  Some experience of chemical-free garden management methodologies would be helpful, though chemicals are used in some areas of the garden at present due to the size of the estate.  As the primary focus of the position will be glasshouse work as well as management of the large borders, candidates must be competent and experienced in plant propagation.  Good physical fitness and an eye for detail are required, with an ability to work well within a team as well as alone where necessary.  During the peak of summer, watering in the glasshouse may be required over the weekend until the plant stock has been sold.  This is carried out by the team on a rota basis and will be required once in every three weekends for a total of approximately half an hour each day, typically until July.

The stated salary offering will be commensurate with the successful applicant’s level of knowledge and is offered in addition to life insurance, an 8% employer pension contribution and a heavily subsidised first-class accommodation by way of a three-bedroom property.  This is a fabulous opportunity for a skilled horticulturist to join a stunning and historic estate, and to work for genuinely warm and welcoming employers.

SALARY:        Up to £29,000 + Accommodation
LOCATION:  West Oxfordshire
JOB No:          EC16768

If this Skilled Gardener vacancy is of interest, please apply or contact Mark Read on 01233 733510 or info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk.

To view more Gardening jobs click Gardening or to view Landscape jobs click Landscape.

To apply for a position with horticruitment you will need to complete a candidate registration form, please see Candidate Registration.

If you would like more information regarding horticultural qualifications and colleges, see our Career advice.

You will need to be registered with horticruitment to find out where and how your personal data is used whilst using our work finding services please view our privacy policy.

Thank you for the interest you have shown in this Skilled Gardener vacancy.  Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications that we receive, it is not possible to respond to every one.  Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application for this Skilled Gardener vacancy will have been unsuccessful.

www.englishcountrygardeners.co.uk


Experienced Gardener

An excellent opportunity has arisen for a qualified and experienced Gardener to manage and maintain a beautiful private estate in the Cotswolds.  The family currently work closely with two garden designers and are looking for a knowledgeable and hands-on gardener to come onboard.

The grounds cover about 8 HA of land surrounding the main residence.  The garden is comprised of naturalistic perennial plants & grasses, bulbs, herbs, roses and climbers, shrubs, and ornamental trees.  The gardens vary between naturalistic wider areas and more intimate and selective ornamental border areas. There are different areas of grass and turf which require constant attention and care; a main formal lawn, grass meadow, and some wilder natural wildflower meadow areas. The wider estate has relatively recently planted parkland trees, many native and some ornamental non-native and a newly made large swimming lake, hedges some formal some native.

The owners bought the property about 4 years ago and the gardens have been under development since. With the continuous progress of the garden, the experienced gardener will be responsible for all aspects of the garden and therefore need to be self-motivated, proficient at organising their time whilst being able to remain flexible in their approach to work. He / She will work closely with the owners, garden designers and tree expert to ensure that the garden is kept to a high horticultural standard. Additional duties include the pool maintenance.

Applicants for this position will ideally be academically qualified to Level 2 or above and are confident in their plant knowledge, with excellent attention to detail. Specialist herbaceous knowledge around a new perennial/prairie style treatment is essential. There is a small orchard and excellent orchard care knowledge is important. Excellent managerial and liaison skills to keep track of all estate work, budgets and schedules, with proven supervisory experience is required. Spray certificates (PA1/PA6) and chainsaw competence certification are desirable and a full clean driving licence. Good physical fitness and experience with a wide range of garden machinery are required for the role.

This position is available on a flexible hour’s basis 4-5 days per week (32 – 40 hours p/week) paid pro rata. The owners hold events at the property and therefore additional hours may be required for which time off in lieu will be given.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced gardener, team player and someone who is keen to keep things moving forward, embracing the flavour of the garden as its been lovingly designed and built. 

SALARY: £30,000 - £35,000 depending on experience

LOCATION: Cotswolds

JOB No: EC16380

If this Skilled Gardener vacancy is of interest, please apply or contact Sara Yassin on 01233 733510 or info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk

To view more Gardening jobs click Gardening or to view Landscape jobs click Landscape.

To apply for a position with horticruitment you will need to complete a candidate registration form, please see Candidate Registration.

If you would like more information regarding horticultural qualifications and colleges, see our Career advice.

You will need to be registered with horticruitment to find out where and how your personal data is used whilst using our work finding services please view our privacy policy.

Thank you for the interest you have shown in this Experienced Gardener vacancy.  Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications that we receive, it is not possible to respond to everyone.  Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application for this Experienced Gardener vacancy will have been unsuccessful.

www.englishcountrygardeners.co.uk


Assistant Centre Manager

Ref - T875

Our client has undergone an impressive expansion, the company has been focusing on bringing all the benefits of a larger organisation whilst retaining the strengths of a family run business. The individual centre teams all have their own local personality and close relationships with a loyal customer base. To sustain the company’s growth and improve their outstanding service, they are looking for an energised and professional Assistant Centre Manager to support the Centre on a full-time basis.

The Role

The Assistant Centre Manager role will report directly into the Centre Manager and be responsible for exceptional levels of customer service and brand delivery through visual merchandising, store standards and team management. You’ll work closely with the Centre Manager to ensure an efficient, smooth operation is in place. The role will have a real people focus and be involved in training, motivating and engaging a team of horticultural retail professionals.

The customers are key to the business so you’ll know how to make them feel extra special and resolve any issues quickly and effectively. You’ll have an eye for numbers and work towards agreed targets and communicate this to the team.

What we are looking for

We are looking for an experienced horticultural retail professional who can confidently articulate ability to deliver and improve business results as well as lead from the front with your team. You’ll be a confident communicator and understand how to engage and inspire a team. You’ll deputise for the Centre Manager at times and enjoy new challenges and responsibilities.

Our client has a dynamic, fast paced business so we look for people that embrace this type of culture and thrive in a changing environment.

What the company offers

A competitive salary and benefits include a pension, up to 28 days holiday (FT) and staff discounts across all of the company brands.

If you would like to join this family run business and bring your ideas and talents to this fast growing company and forward thinking team we want to hear from you.

Main Duties & Responsibilities
  • Ensure that Customers receive the best Customer Service and care to ensure that complaints are kept to a minimum.
  • Ensuring the highest standards of display, compliance and inventory control are maintained.
  • To ensure all sales targets and KPI’s are achieved.
  • Supporting Department Managers to ensure that they receive clear direction and performance management within a culture of coaching and mentoring.
  • Identify any training needs for employees to progress and develop within the Company.
  • To be available for work at weekends.

If this Assistant Centre Manager vacancy is of interest, please apply or contact Ruth Bolam on 01233 732767 or ruth@horticruitment.com

To view more garden centre jobs, click Retail.

To apply for a position with horticruitment you will need to complete a candidate registration form, please see Candidate Registration.

If you would like more information regarding horticultural qualifications and colleges, see our Career advice.

You will need to be registered with horticruitment to find out where and how your personal data is used whilst using our work finding services please view our privacy policy.

Thank you for the interest you have shown in this Assistant Centre Manager vacancy.  Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications that we receive, it is not possible to respond to every one.  Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application for this Assistant Centre Manager vacancy will have been unsuccessful.

www.horticruitment.com


Junior Gardener

Junior Gardener required

Job Ref: EC9909

A gardener is sought after for a large private estate garden situated in an area of outstanding beauty close to Henley on Thames.

The formal gardens of about 3 acres which surround the main house, contain a rose garden, large areas of fine lawn, hedging and topiary, a small orchard and kitchen garden as well as a glasshouse used for growing cut flowers and tomatoes. There are also paddocks and parkland plus associated buildings. The whole estate totals about 60 acres.

The owners are currently seeking a full-time gardener to join their gardening team working under the direction of the Estate Manager/Head Gardener.  Good practical skills and plant knowledge would be advantageous, but candidates who are at the earlier stages of their gardening career would also be welcome. The diverse nature of the gardens and estate offers an outstanding opportunity for someone who is keen to learn and develop their craft and gardening skills.

Your duties will include maintenance of the main and associated gardens and paddocks. Care of the formal lawns, hedge trimming, maintenance of the borders and planting. You must also be willing to turn your hand to other more general tasks as required.

The owners are keen to promote a friendly and rewarding working environment, so it is important that you have a positive attitude, with good communication skills and are able to get on well with all other staff members.

The working hours are generally 7.30am to 4pm with a 30min lunch break, however some flexibility may be required. Due to the rural location of the property it is essential that you have your own transport.

Our client is open to considering applications from candidates who are at the early stage of their gardening career who are keen to learn and develop their craft gardening skills.

SALARY: £20,000-£24,000 depending on experience
LOCATION: Henley on Thames
JOB No: EC9909

If this Junior Gardener vacancy is of interest, please apply or contact Sara Yassin on 01233 733510 or info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk.

To view more Gardening jobs click Gardening or to view Landscape jobs click Landscape.

To apply for a position with horticruitment you will need to complete a candidate registration form, please see Candidate Registration.

If you would like more information regarding horticultural qualifications and colleges, see our Career advice.

You will need to be registered with horticruitment to find out where and how your personal data is used whilst using our work finding services please view our privacy policy.

Thank you for the interest you have shown in this Junior Gardener vacancy.  Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications that we receive, it is not possible to respond to every one.  Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application for this Junior Gardener vacancy will have been unsuccessful.

www.englishcountrygardeners.co.uk


Plantarea Assistant Manager

Ref - C405

Plantarea Assistant Manager required

Our client is a family run business, growers of great quality plants on a 25 acre nursery. They have an independent garden centre with a wonderful offering and are proud to supply home grown seasonal bedding & bulbs, specimen shrubs and trees, beautiful herbaceous plus other plants and a full range of tools, accessories and other products for the amateur gardener and professional landscaper alike. They are currently seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic Seasonal and Bedding Plants Assistant Manager to join their ever growing team. 

Can you provide a good range of inspirational plant displays?

Do you enjoy providing excellent customer sales and service?

Are you a great team player able to make a real difference to the overall look and feel of the plantarea?

Key points
  • Driving sales and profitability through product placement and displays
  • Maintaining professional standards across the department
  • Ensuring only excellent quality plants are on offer
  • Supervising and leading a team of staff
  • Driven to achieve the WOW factor across all areas
Must haves
  • Previous experience in garden centre retailing
  • Excellent knowledge of Bedding and Seasonal Plants
  • A creative and commercial mind
  • An enthusiastic approach to all daily activities
  • Keen to reach and exceed goals by offering excellent retailing standards

If this Plantarea Assistant Manager vacancy is of interest, please apply or contact Ruth Bolam on 01233 732767 or ruth@horticruitment.com

To view more garden centre jobs, click Retail.

To apply for a position with horticruitment you will need to complete a candidate registration form, please see Candidate Registration.

If you would like more information regarding horticultural qualifications and colleges, see our Career advice.

You will need to be registered with horticruitment to find out where and how your personal data is used whilst using our work finding services please view our privacy policy.

Thank you for the interest you have shown in this Plantarea Assistant Manager vacancy.  Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications that we receive, it is not possible to respond to every one.  Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application for this Plantarea Assistant Manager vacancy will have been unsuccessful.

www.horticruitment.com


Assistant Gardener - EC8622

A very attractive vacancy has arisen for an Assistant Gardener to join a small, friendly and supportive team on a private estate in West Oxfordshire. This position would suit an experienced gardener with good physical fitness and a genuine passion for horticulture and private estate gardening.  This position is offered with a three-bedroom house (rent and Council Tax free) in addition to the stated salary.

This privately-owned mature and traditional English country garden encompasses approximately 20-acres in total including 12-acres of ancient woodland with a natural stream.  The formal gardens comprise lawns, mixed herbaceous borders, fruit trees, roses and climbers, hedges, mature trees and ponds.  A further 7-acres is dedicated to orchard and informal grass areas.  The property has a large glasshouse and potting shed which is primarily used for propagation of flowers.

Reporting to the Head Gardener, the successful candidate will assist in the overall maintenance and development of the garden on a full-time basis.  Good plant knowledge is required, as is an ability to demonstrate skills such as plant propagation, specialist pruning (especially roses and climbers) and herbaceous border management.   Experience in the operation of a range of garden machinery is essential, and an ability to carry out basic maintenance of the machinery, beneficial.  Good time management skills are required as is an ability to take clear and supportive direction from the Head Gardener.  Applicants must have a willingness to develop their skills and knowledge and must be happy to work within a team as well as on their own when required.  

A horticultural qualification such as RHS level 2 or equivalent, PA1/6 spray certificates and competence/certification in chainsaw operation are desirable but not essential, as full training will be provided to the right candidate.  Applicants with basic hard landscaping skills (as well as good horticultural skills) are encouraged to apply, though the former are not essential.  Hours of work are 08:00 – 16:30, Monday to Friday.

In addition to the stated salary, a modern three-bedroom house is provided with the role.  The accommodation is located approximately one mile away from the estate and comes rent free, however the successful applicant will be liable for their own utility bills and Council Tax.  Applicants must possess a full UK driving licence and their own transport for the commute to the estate.  A full DBS check will be carried out on the successful applicant prior to commencement of employment if a current cleared check is not held.  A probationary period of three months will apply.

SALARY:        £18,200 + Accommodation
LOCATION: Abingdon, Oxfordshire
JOB No:          EC8622

If this Assistant Gardener vacancy is of interest, please apply or contact Mark Read on 01233 733510 or info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk.

To view more Gardening jobs click Gardening or to view Landscape jobs click Landscape.

To apply for a position with horticruitment you will need to complete a candidate registration form, please see Candidate Registration.

If you would like more information regarding horticultural qualifications and colleges, see our Career advice.

You will need to be registered with horticruitment to find out where and how your personal data is used whilst using our work finding services please view our privacy policy.

Thank you for the interest you have shown in this Assistant Gardener vacancy.  Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications that we receive, it is not possible to respond to every one.  Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application for this Assistant Gardener vacancy will have been unsuccessful.

www.englishcountrygardeners.co.uk


Sole Gardener - EC4119 - This position has now been filled

Sole Gardener required

A rare and exciting opportunity has arisen on a stunning privately owned garden, designed by a renowned and celebrated garden designer, for an experienced hands-on plantsman/woman.  Applicants for this role should be well-rounded and qualified private estate gardeners with excellent horticultural knowledge and an ability to manage their own time efficiently. 

Located in the Cotswolds, the horticulturally diverse garden exemplifies the stately yet natural feel typical of a functional, historic family home.  The welcoming owners have a genuine love for their garden and therefore require a talented Sole Gardener, on a live-in full-time basis, to take ownership of each aspect and to continue its development in line with the designer’s original vision.  Applicants must be confident in managing all aspects of a diverse private estate garden on their own, including the activities of external contractors where necessary.

The property encompasses 60-acres in total, with formal gardens of 1.5-acres being the primary focus of the property; comprising expansive striped lawns, gravel pathways, pots/planters with seasonal displays, herbaceous beds and borders, bulb plantings, cutting flower beds, magnolia, rare climbing wisteria and climbing roses.  A kitchen garden includes two poly tunnels and two glasshouses, dedicated to the propagation and growing of organic fruit, vegetables and cutting flowers that are used in the main house.  Outside the formal gardens, management of floral meadows and young woodland areas are overseen by the Sole Gardener, with the hands-on aspect primarily but not exclusively undertaken by contractors. 

Applicants for this role should hold academic horticultural qualifications and will need to have excellent horticultural knowledge as well as discretion, confidentiality and sensitivity associated with working on a private estate.  Demonstrable experience in each of the above areas to a high standard is essential, with certification and competence in chainsaw operation and chemical spraying (PA1/PA6) desired.  Applicants must hold a full UK driving licence due to the rural location of the property.

The position is offered with a two-bedroom cottage on site, suitable for a single or couple.  Children are welcome, with pets considered within reason.  The property owners cover Council Tax, with utility bills covered by the Sole Gardener.  Hours of work will be 08:00 – 17:00 with a one-hour lunch break.

SALARY:       Circa £28,000 DOE + Accommodation
LOCATION:  Oxfordshire
JOB No:          EC4119

If this Sole Gardener vacancy is of interest, please apply or contact Mark Read on 01233 733510 or info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk.

To view more Gardening jobs click Gardening or to view Landscape jobs click Landscape.

To apply for a position with horticruitment you will need to complete a candidate registration form, please see Candidate Registration.

If you would like more information regarding horticultural qualifications and colleges, see our Career advice.

You will need to be registered with horticruitment to find out where and how your personal data is used whilst using our work finding services please view our privacy policy.

Thank you for the interest you have shown in this Sole Gardener vacancy.  Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications that we receive, it is not possible to respond to every one.  Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application for this Sole Gardener vacancy will have been unsuccessful.

www.englishcountrygardeners.co.uk


Nursery Sales Manager - E180 - This position has been filled

Our client is a busy wholesale plant nursery offering a complete hardy plant supply service for garden designers, landscapers and horticulturalists. They grow much of their stock but also buy in finished and bare root stock. The nursery is set over 4 acres operating with environmentally friendly production techniques and processes. They are currently seeking a Nursery Sales Manager who will report to the owner and be an integral part of the team.

Key points
  • New business and customer development
  • Liaising with the team to ensure orders are assembled ready for collection
  • Pricing quotes and assisting with stock control and ordering
  • Assisting the owner and sales team in satisfying plant lists and orders from their client base
  • Liaising with customers to ensure deliveries and plants match expectations
Must haves
  • Good experience within the amenity nursery sector
  • Strong horticultural knowledge and experience of leading and working with a team
  • Have a passion for plants and people
  • Spaying certificates would be useful but not essential

If this Nursery Sales Manager vacancy is of interest, please apply or contact Pauline Thomas on 01233 732767 or pauline@horticruitment.com.

To view more Nursery jobs, click Nursery.

To apply for a position with horticruitment you will need to complete a candidate registration form, please see Candidate Registration.

If you would like more information regarding horticultural qualifications and colleges, see our Career advice.

You will need to be registered with horticruitment to find out where and how your personal data is used whilst using our work finding services please view our privacy policy.

Thank you for the interest you have shown in this Nursery Sales Manager vacancy.  Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications that we receive, it is not possible to respond to every one.  Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application for this Nursery Sales Manager vacancy will have been unsuccessful.

www.horticruitment.com

 


Skilled Gardener - Live In - EC3399 - This position has now been filled

A rare and wonderful opportunity has arisen for a Skilled Gardener to assist with the management of a celebrated seven-acre private garden on the Berkshire Downs, located between Newbury and Wantage in Oxfordshire.  The garden has been recognised by a very significant critic, that it ‘quintessentially exemplifies the qualities and traditions of the English garden.  Very recently, in a competition organised by The English Garden Magazine and the National Garden Scheme for the Nation’s favourite of the 3500 NGS gardens, it was nominated in the final 30 and one of four in the South East.

The devoted owners have been resident at the property for over 50 years, with the lady of the house – herself very well respected in the industry - dedicating her time to the garden on most days.  The garden is open on a regular basis as part of the NGS, as well as for private tours by appointment.  The owners are now looking for an energetic, physically fit, skilled and enthusiastic gardener to assist with management of the garden on a full-time, permanent and live-in basis.

The seven-acre garden consists of a series of garden rooms that include herbaceous borders, an arboretum, kitchen garden, bog garden, and greenhouses.  The property itself dates from the mid-seventeen hundreds and provides a picture-perfect centre point for the stunning and horticulturally diverse gardens.

Ideal applicants will have comprehensive hands-on experience within a large private garden of a similar nature.  The successful candidate will be willing to work on their own as well as with the owners, and with additional part-time help.  Applicants must therefore possess the ability to work on their own initiative whilst being sensitive to the garden theme and associated preferences of the owners.

Candidates for this position will ideally hold an academic horticultural qualification at RHS Level 3 or equivalent/above, with PA1/PA6 spray certificates being an advantage.  Certification of chainsaw competence is desirable but not essential.  Other duties besides gardening will include general estate DIY tasks and responsibility for the security of the property when the owners are away.  The property is located in a very rural area on the top of the Berkshire Downs; therefore, a car and full driving licence are essential requirements.

This is a wonderful opportunity for a passionate and skilled gardener to play a key role in a traditional, beautiful and horticulturally diverse English country garden that has been painstakingly yet lovingly developed over the past 50 years by the devoted owners.

This position is offered with accommodation by way of a very well presented and recently refurbished two-bedroom cottage with its own garden, located just inside the main gate at the end of a short driveway.  Council tax is covered by the client.  Children and partners are welcome, though dogs must be kept indoors or in kennels when the gardens are open to the public and must be under strict management at all other times.  Working hours are typically 08:00 – 17:00 with the expected seasonal variation where applicable, with 20 days holiday (plus bank holidays).

SALARY:       Circa £25,000 depending on experience
LOCATION:  West Berkshire Downs
JOB No:          EC3399

If this Skilled Gardener vacancy is of interest, please apply or contact Mark Read on 01233 733510 or info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk.

To view more Gardening jobs click Gardening or to view Landscape jobs click Landscape.

To apply for a position with horticruitment you will need to complete a candidate registration form, please see Candidate Registration.

If you would like more information regarding horticultural qualifications and colleges, see our Career advice.

You will need to be registered with horticruitment to find out where and how your personal data is used whilst using our work finding services please view our privacy policy.

Thank you for the interest you have shown in this Skilled Gardener vacancy.  Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications that we receive, it is not possible to respond to every one.  Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application for this Skilled Gardener vacancy will have been unsuccessful.

www.englishcountrygardeners.co.uk


Skilled Gardener - Live In - EC7989 - This position has now been filled

Skilled Gardener required

A suitably experienced and passionate gardener is required to take the lead in maintaining approximately 5-acres of formal gardens within a larger 550-acre estate, located just outside Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire.  This role would suit a knowledgeable horticulturist with demonstrable experience on private estates at a senior level.  Applicants should have an understanding and passion for the artistic aspect of garden development, as well as an awareness of the scientific considerations essential for effective plant use and management.

This very ‘English garden’ which has recently been redesigned and replanted, surrounds the main house and includes topiary yew, herbaceous borders, a paved parterre, box parterre, tiered formal lawns, a cutting garden, an embryonic wild meadow area, a new woodland wildlife ponds, a new glasshouse, new potting shed, a new machine shed and new barn.  A collection of approximately 20 specimen oak trees is located within the estate at present, with plans to increase the stand on an ongoing basis.  A bluebell woodland with native trees is managed by external contractors, though assistance from the garden team may be required at times.  Although the formal garden is not managed organically, the remaining estate of approximately 545-acres is.  This principle is in keeping with the property owner’s intention to increase biodiversity and continue the creation of natural habitats, beyond the successes already realised on the estate.

As the principal gardener, applicants will need to coordinate with two part-time gardeners, house staff, a groom and occasional contractors.  The position is hands-on, with everyday work involving typical seasonal gardening duties such as pruning, planting, mulching, weeding, mowing, propagation etc. The role also includes more specialised tasks such as planting design, irrigation management, small arboricultural jobs (formative pruning and mulching of young trees etc.), composting of garden waste, as well as regular consultation with the owner who is very receptive to new ideas and expertise.  As a live-in employee, candidates should also be willing and able to undertake estate security as well as occasional jobs within the wider estate, e.g. tree planting.

Applicants for this role should have excellent plant knowledge; proven practical experience at a similar level (senior gardener or above, on private estates), knowledge of garden machinery and their maintenance, good organisation and communication skills including the use of computers/WhatsApp etc.), knowledge and experience of turf maintenance and care, knowledge of health and safety and the associated paperwork.  An academic horticultural qualification is desired, ideally at RHS Level 3 or above, however extensive experience will be considered. Experience with plant pest and disease control/treatment is required, as is experience with chainsaws (PA1/PA6 spray certificates and a chainsaw certificates; CS30/31 or similar) are desired.

Suitable applicants will be positive, enthusiastic individuals with a ‘can-do’ approach.  Candidates should be non-smokers with good physical fitness and a fondness for dogs, as the three friendly house Labradors may wish to assist in the garden from time to time.  A full UK driving licence is essential.

This role is offered with a generous salary and on-site accommodation by way of an impressive and recently refurbished three-bedroom ground-floor house, located close to the main property.  The accommodation comprises an open plan kitchen/dining room and a very large lounge with log burner, and a brand-new conservatory at the rear extending to a private garden.  Heating, power and electricity the responsibility of the occupant.  This property is unsuitable for pets.  A standard 40-hour week is required; Monday to Friday, with occasional weekend work when necessary, e.g. during periods of hot weather.  Holiday entitlement comprises 20-days holiday plus bank holidays (28-days in total).  The estate is located in a rural setting amongst beautiful rolling hills, pocketed with beech woods.  Nearby towns include Henley; 3 miles, and Marlow; 8 miles away.

SALARY:       Circa £28,000 + Accommodation
LOCATION:  Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire
JOB No:          EC7989

If this Skilled Gardener vacancy is of interest, please apply or contact Mark Read on 01233 733510 or info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk.

To view more Gardening jobs click Gardening or to view Landscape jobs click Landscape.

To apply for a position with horticruitment you will need to complete a candidate registration form, please see Candidate Registration.

If you would like more information regarding horticultural qualifications and colleges, see our Career advice.

You will need to be registered with horticruitment to find out where and how your personal data is used whilst using our work finding services please view our privacy policy.

Thank you for the interest you have shown in this Skilled Gardener vacancy.  Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications that we receive, it is not possible to respond to every one.  Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application for this Skilled Gardener vacancy will have been unsuccessful.

www.englishcountrygardeners.co.uk