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Job Description

Job Title: Gardener
Department: Gardens
Reports To: Head of Gardens and Parkland
Working Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Occasional weekend work on a rota basis)

Role Summary:

The Gardener will assist the Head of Gardens and Parkland in the hands-on maintenance of the gardens and estate to ensure they reach their full potential in line with the expectations of the principals.

Key Responsibilities:

Assist in the development and maintenance of the walled garden and orchards to the highest standards.

Mow lawns across the gardens and parkland to ensure a pristine appearance.

Apply fertilizers and lawn treatments as required.

Carry out woodland maintenance, including minor tree work.

Produce compost and maintain composting areas.

Maintain ponds and rivers within the estate.

Perform snow clearance and salt spreading during winter.

Maintain drains and ditches for proper water flow.

Oversee garden maintenance at other estate properties.

Ensure upkeep of garden buildings, paths, walls, fences, and gates.

Undertake weekend tasks such as watering as needed.

Maintain all machinery and equipment in clean, safe, and working order.

Manage water features, pumps, and filtration systems, reporting any issues to the Head Gardener.

Keep service areas, workshops, and team spaces clean and organized.

Report material and supply needs to the Head Gardener.

Prune and maintain shrubs, trees, and herbaceous plants.

Prepare soil and planting beds.

Plant trees, shrubs, perennials, and bedding plants per given schedules and layouts.

Weed all garden areas regularly.

Apply mulch and fertilizers appropriately.

Maintain paths and roads, including leaf blowing and power washing.

Maintain and repair garden structures such as sheds, fences, walls, and gates.

Safely and effectively use hand tools and basic garden machinery, including leaf blowers, strimmers, and lawnmowers.

Use ladders, platforms, and lifting equipment as required.

Ensure all machinery is properly maintained and report any issues.

Adhere to all health and safety regulations.

Keep all working areas clean and organized.

This list is not exhaustive, and the post holder may be required to undertake additional duties at the direction of the Estate Manager.

Person Specification:

Essential:

Professional gardening experience, preferably in a large private garden.

Strong knowledge of garden design, hard landscaping, and operation of light machinery.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

High attention to detail.

Positive and confident attitude with strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to engage with VIPs.

Ability to work flexibly and under pressure, sometimes at short notice.

Effective written and verbal communication skills.

Passion for horticulture.

Strong decision-making skills.

Team-oriented mindset.

Basic IT/computer literacy.

Desirable:

Experience working in private residential settings.

Relevant horticultural qualifications (e.g., RHS Level 2 or equivalent).

Knowledge of sports turf management.

Health and safety certification.

PA1 and PA6 pesticide application certification.

Chainsaw operation certification