Gardener in Ellon

The National Trust for Scotland is passionate about Scotland’s heritage, making a difference to what makes Scotland so special. Pitmedden Garden is a re‑created Scottish Renaissance walled garden with vibrant floral designs that combine with parterres to create a masterpiece of intricate patterns and fragrant flowers. Sections of the garden have a modern design for a more sustainable garden, offering a biodiverse, species‑rich design which represents modern garden design. The garden also contains orchards with more than 200 fruit trees.

The role of ‘Gardener’ as a key member of the Pitmedden team will be heavily involved in the implementation of development plans for the gardens and wider designed landscape.

• A formal qualification at NVQ/SVQ Level 2 in amenity horticulture supported by knowledge and a minimum of 4 years practical work experience in a heritage or amenity garden context.
• PA1 and PA6a spraying certificates, or willingness to be trained in the use of pesticides.
• Current driving licence valid for driving in the UK.
• Formal machinery certifications, i.e., Ride on mowers, tractors, chainsaws etc.

• Undertaking practical maintenance of the garden and estate e.g., managing trees and shrubs, herbaceous plants, and bulbs; turf care; pest/disease/weed control; staking, plant nutrition, composting and soil improvement.
• Contributing to the management, conservation, and development of the garden and estate by plant propagation, cultivation, production of seed and the inputting of appropriate plant records on IRIS database.
• Working individually or as part of a team across a wide range of activities including hedge cutting, strimming, tractor/ATV driving, chipping & spraying.
• Assisting with education/interpretation activities such as introductory talks and guided walks.
• Fostering positive relationships with visitors, local communities and other organisations.
• Supervising and working with volunteers and/or staff members to ensure they deliver required outputs and the appropriate standard of work.
• Contributing to the review and development of operational workplans for the gardens.
• Ensuring compliance with the Trust’s health, safety, and environment policies and procedures.

• Practical experience in general amenity or heritage gardening ideally in a garden open to the public.
• Demonstrable skills in plant husbandry, particularly trees, shrubs, climbers, herbaceous plants, turf culture and pruning techniques.
• Sound demonstrable plant knowledge and identification skills.
• Good practical knowledge of Health and Safety processes and procedures.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Good organisational and time‑management skills.
• A high eye for detail and finish, quality standard and best practice.
• Competent IT skills sufficient for maintaining plant records.
• An understanding and commitment to the aims and objectives of the National Trust for Scotland.
• A pro‑active approach to taking initiative and driving forward ideas and projects.

• Experience of tree inspection processes and/or arboricultural practices.
• Current First Aid certification (or willingness to train).
• Experience of working in a mixed team that includes short‑term/seasonal staff and/or volunteers.
• An appreciation of Scottish garden history in a general context.

• Not a line manager but will, on occasion, supervise volunteers and staff under instructions from Head gardener or First gardener.
• Will work closely with other property colleagues and will have some interaction with other technical/specialist advisory colleagues.
• Will have regular interaction with members of the public and guests of all ages and abilities.