We are looking for a skilled, experienced, enthusiastic Horticulturist to join our Gardens team. In this role, you will help maintain and develop our Gardens to the highest horticultural standards, with innovation, creativity, sustainability and ecology woven into your practice. You will also support our apprentices and volunteers, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for both colleagues and visitors.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain and develop the Gardens, balancing sustainability, ecology and the public in mind.
- Carry out routine garden maintenance and ground care, including mowing, weeding, sweeping, and litter clearance.
- Supervise and support volunteers and apprentices in garden activities.
- Operate garden machinery and vehicles safely, following training and health and safety regulations.
- Assist with visitor enquiries and provide information about horticultural displays.
- Contribute to the safe and smooth running of the Gardens, including opening duties and ensuring compliance with site bylaws.
About You
You will have a passion for contemporary horticulture and a desire to work in a garden that is free at the point of access for the public. You will work well both independently and as part of a team, with excellent interpersonal skills to engage positively with visitors, volunteers, and colleagues. You will be proactive, safety-conscious, and committed to delivering high standards in all aspects of garden care and visitor experience. You will have experience working in public-facing gardens and be flexible in your working pattern, including one in five weekends (Saturday and Sunday) and occasional Bank Holidays, with TOIL provided for these duties.
Key Qualities, Skills, and Experience
- A minimum qualification of RHS Level 2 Diploma in horticulture (or equivalent) or equivalent vocational experience.
- Significant practical experience in horticulture, ideally within public parks or gardens.
- Knowledge of plants and horticultural techniques, as well as routine garden maintenance.
- Experience with horticultural machinery and tools.
- Ability to supervise apprentices and volunteers (desirable).
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a positive approach to visitor engagement.
- Commitment to health and safety, equality, and diversity.
- Basic IT skills.
- Willingness to work flexibly, including early mornings and occasional Saturdays.
