At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain beautiful parks and green spaces while working outdoors.
- Company: Join the supportive team at Bristol City Council.
- Benefits: Enjoy a generous rewards package and annual leave allowance.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 2 in Amenity Horticulture or equivalent experience required.
The predicted salary is between 27709 - 29071 £ per year.
The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included.
Job details:
- Job reference: VAC009051
- Date posted: 04/11/2026
- Application closing date: 18/11/2026
- Location: Sea Mills Depot, Sea Mills Lane, Sea Mills, Bristol BS9 1DP
- Salary: BG7: £27,709 - £29,071
- Contractual hours: 37
- Basis: Full time
- Job category/type: Parks and Gardens
This is a great opportunity to become part of the Parks and Green Spaces team with Bristol City Council. As a Gardener, you will be part of a team that maintains our fantastic parks and green spaces as well as housing sites and highway verges. You will be based at the Sea Mills Depot covering the North area of the city.
What will I be doing?
- Carrying out a full range of grounds maintenance operational tasks including grass cutting, pruning, sports ground maintenance, conservation management tasks, weed spraying, bin emptying and removing waste on site.
- Supporting seasonal workers, apprentices and work placements.
- Carrying out small repairs to park features, furniture and infrastructure and inclement weather tasks (e.g. gritting).
What do I need to have?
- NVQ Level 2 in Amenity Horticulture or equivalent qualification or experience.
- Knowledge of health and safety in the workplace.
- Ability to carry out the physical demands of the role, working outdoors and at weekends when requested to do so.
- Full driving licence and ability to drive a wide range of vehicles and plant.
Bristol City Council are not offering sponsorship for this role.
Why Bristol City Council?
At Bristol City Council, we go that extra mile for our people; we offer a work environment which is fast moving and supportive, giving you the chance to use your skills and develop new ones within a high profile organisation. Join us and you’ll receive a generous rewards package including membership of the Local Government Pension scheme, and a generous annual leave allowance. In addition, you’ll be working in a supportive environment where you’ll have the chance to make Bristol a better place and contribute to its future.
We're a Disability Confident employer which means we value recruiting and retaining disabled people. Any job applicants who consider themselves to be disabled and meet the essential criteria in the Person Specification are guaranteed an interview. We'll make reasonable adjustments throughout the interview process and provide continued workplace support throughout your career.
Deadline: midnight Wednesday 18th November 2026. Interviews will take place week commencing Monday 23rd November 2026.
If you have any further queries after reading the job advert along with the attached job paperwork then please contact: North: Sarah Blazier sarah.blazier@bristol.gov.uk
Bristol City Council strives to have a workforce that reflects the communities it serves, we are therefore committed to ensuring diversity in our hiring process. We welcome, develop and promote people from all sections of the community. We particularly welcome applications from young people, Black and racially minoritised and disabled candidates who are currently under-represented within this Service of Bristol City Council. Appointments will be made on merit.
The personal information section (including your name) you’ll complete as part of the application form will not be visible to hiring managers, but is used confidentially to make sure that everyone is treated fairly.
Gardener employer: Bristol City Council
Bristol City Council is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment. With a strong commitment to employee development, hybrid working options, and a comprehensive rewards package, including generous annual leave and pension benefits, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families in Bristol. Join us in championing inclusive education and driving positive change within our vibrant community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Gardener
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like Bristol City Council often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Gardener
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Bristol City Council does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bristol City Council
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Bristol City Council will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Bristol City Council.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Bristol City Council.
