Overview
A fantastic opportunity has arisen for an enthusiastic and motivated Assistant Gardener to join a Head Gardener in a lovely private garden. This role involves more than just maintaining the gardens, woodlands and grounds, it also offers the opportunity to contribute to their ongoing development from the very beginning. It is ideal for someone who is eager to play an active role in shaping and enhancing the landscape for the new owners after the gardens have been slightly neglected.
Working under the close guidance of an experienced Head Gardener, who has been there for over 20 years, on a 56 acre private estate based between Cirencester and Stroud. You will gain hands-on experience across a variety of areas, including formal and informal gardens, woodlands, lawns, walled gardens and a range of seasonal projects. This position is ideally suited to someone who has experience working in a professional gardening environment but wants to improve their horticultural knowledge.
Key Responsibilities
- Carry out all aspects of grounds and woodland maintenance in an approved manner
- Assist with day-to-day garden and grounds maintenance including tree care, hedge cutting, weeding, planting, mulching, mowing and general garden care
- Assist with lawn care to ensure lawns are presented to a consistently high standard
- Pruning of trees, shrubs, plants and roses
- Maintenance general borders including edging of grass areas
- Support seasonal gardening tasks such as planting, soil preparation and basic glasshouse work
- Knowledge and operation of garden tools, grass cutters, strimmers, hedge cutters and chainsaws as well as other garden machinery and equipment safely
- Assist with vegetable and cut-flower gardens to support produce and flowers for the house
- Strong emphasis on safe working practices with regard to fellow workers
- Keep paths, beds and working areas tidy and presentable at all times
- Follow instructions from the Head Gardener and work collaboratively with the Owners
- Learn and develop practical horticultural skills through hands-on experience
Requirements
- A genuine interest in gardening and outdoor work
- Proficiency in operating and maintaining various machinery, including lawnmowers, trimmers, and chainsaws (a chainsaw license is essential)
- Horticultural training, college course, qualification or practical experience required
- Willingness to learn, take instruction and develop skills
- Physically fit, hard working and comfortable with manual outdoor work in all weather conditions
- Reliable and punctual
- Positive attitude with good attention to detail
- Basic understanding of garden tools and safe working practices (training can be given)
- Must be able to drive
Ideal Candidate
- Energetic, enthusiastic and eager to learn
- Hands-on, practical and willing to get stuck in
- Takes pride in their work and enjoys working to high standards
- Open to mentoring and learning from experienced gardeners
- Enjoys working as part of a small, close-knit team on a private estate
Hours & Practical Details
- 40 hours per week, including some weekend /seasonal watering when required
- ASAP start
What We Offer
- A supportive and encouraging environment ideal for learning and development
- Hands-on training and mentorship from an experienced Head Gardener
- Opportunity to gain broad gardening experience in an exceptional garden
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £30,000.00-£35,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person