Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and maintain beautiful gardens at the Leckford Abbas hotel.
- Company: Join a historic hotel set in stunning Hampshire countryside.
- Benefits: Enjoy a permanent role with a competitive salary and a vibrant work environment.
- Why this job: Perfect for passionate horticulturists wanting to make an impact in a picturesque setting.
- Qualifications: 2+ years of gardening experience and NVQ Level 2 in Amenity Horticulture required.
- Other info: Opportunity to engage with visitors and participate in exciting estate events.
The predicted salary is between 23280 - 25000 £ per year.
Job Description
At a glance
Salary – £23,280 – £25,000
Contract type – Permanent
Hours of work – 39 hours per week
Monday to Thursday 07:30am – 16:00pm
Friday 07:30am – 15:00pm
Location – Leckford Abbas hotel
About the role
This exciting permanent role is based at the Leckford Abbas hotel in Hampshire, once the original home of Spedan Lewis, set in beautiful countryside and close to the River Test.
This role would suit a self-motivated, passionate and experienced horticulturist who is available to deliver and maintain high standards throughout the gardens and grounds.
The Gardens and Grounds Technician will be responsible for managing the gardens within the hotel grounds, including maintaining two greenhouses, used for propagation of plants, fruit and vegetables and a walled kitchen garden used to supply the Abbas restaurant kitchens.
Key responsibilities
-
To assist with the improvement and maintenance of the Gardens, ensuring they are presented at the highest standards, which retain the gardens in their pre-eminent position within the Partnership and the horticultural world at large.
-
To efficiently undertake all horticultural and maintenance tasks as requested, ensuring high levels of craftsmanship
-
To maintain and use a wide range of tools and powered equipment and complete any records required.
-
To ensure and promote the health and safety of yourself and others in accordance with Partnership requirements.
-
To establish good working relationships with other Partners and Managers.
-
To welcome and communicate with visitors to the Gardens, which can include giving talks, selling tickets and answering questions.
-
To maintain current knowledge of horticultural practices and environmental considerations and apply where appropriate.
-
To provide Department out of hours cover on a rota basis.
-
To support and take part in Estate events as required, which will involve occasional extra hours at weekends and evenings.
Essential skills
-
Experience of propagation and working in a production garden
-
Able to work with minimal supervision
-
Minimum of 2 years professional gardening experience with a good understanding of plants, pests and soil types
-
Full Driving Licence
-
Minimum NVQ Level 2 Amenity Horticulture or equivalent professional experience
-
Good communication skills
Desirable skills
-
PA1 & PA6a Pesticide certificate
-
NPTC CS30/31 Chainsaw certificate
JBRP1_UKTJ
Gardener employer: John Lewis Head Office
Contact Detail:
John Lewis Head Office Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Gardener
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to highlight your hands-on experience in horticulture during any conversations or networking opportunities. Being able to discuss specific projects you've worked on can really set you apart.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarize yourself with the Leckford Abbas hotel and its gardens. Understanding their unique features and challenges will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and knowledge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Connect with current or former employees of the hotel on platforms like LinkedIn. They can provide valuable insights into the work culture and expectations, which can be beneficial for your application.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to maintaining high standards in gardening. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed gardens or dealt with challenges in previous roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Gardener
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to emphasize your professional gardening experience, especially any work related to propagation and production gardens. Mention specific plants, pests, and soil types you are familiar with.
Showcase Your Skills: Include details about your qualifications, such as your NVQ Level 2 in Amenity Horticulture or any equivalent experience. If you have additional certifications like PA1 & PA6a or chainsaw certificates, be sure to mention those as well.
Demonstrate Communication Abilities: Since the role involves interacting with visitors and possibly giving talks, highlight your communication skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully engaged with others in previous roles.
Tailor Your Application: Customize your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific responsibilities and requirements mentioned in the job description. Show your passion for horticulture and your commitment to maintaining high standards in garden management.
How to prepare for a job interview at John Lewis Head Office
✨Show Your Passion for Horticulture
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for gardening and horticulture during the interview. Share specific examples of your experiences, such as successful projects or unique plants you've worked with, to demonstrate your commitment to maintaining high standards in garden management.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Discuss your professional gardening experience, especially any roles that involved propagation or working in production gardens. Be prepared to talk about the tools and equipment you are familiar with, as well as any certifications you hold, like NVQ Level 2 Amenity Horticulture.
✨Emphasize Communication Skills
Since the role involves interacting with visitors and possibly giving talks, it's important to showcase your communication skills. Practice explaining complex horticultural concepts in simple terms, and be ready to discuss how you would engage with guests at the hotel.
✨Demonstrate Health and Safety Awareness
Be prepared to discuss how you prioritize health and safety in your gardening practices. Share any relevant experiences where you ensured a safe working environment, and mention your knowledge of health and safety regulations in horticulture.
