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- Tasks: Join a small team to keep the zoo grounds stunning and vibrant all year round.
- Company: Northumberland Zoo, a family-run conservation centre with exciting growth plans.
- Benefits: Earn £12.52 per hour, gain hands-on experience, and work in a unique environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission to inspire positive change through conservation and education.
- Qualifications: Experience in gardening and a passion for horticulture are desirable.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic role with opportunities for personal development and teamwork.
Northumberland Zoo is a major animal attraction and wildlife conservation centre, in the Northeast of England. We are a family‑run, not‑for‑profit zoo and we are looking for a like‑minded team player to join our team; you must be willing to adopt our zoo ethos and join our mission in conservation, education & sustainability to inspire positive change.
This Gardening role is part of a small team and will assist our Lead Groundskeeper and Zoo Director to deliver projects. If you have a genuine interest in gardening and horticulture surrounded by animals every day and be confronted with problems and puzzles unlike others you have seen before, working at Northumberland Zoo is the place for you. We partake in numerous conservation projects both local and abroad, so this is a rare opportunity for someone to help us directly contribute towards and help increase our conservation efforts.
Main Duties & Responsibilities:- Working as part of a small team ensuring that the zoo grounds look their best all year round
- Landscaping, mowing, planting, strimming, weeding and groundwork
- Growing vegetables and flowers in our poly tunnel and surrounding outdoor areas
- Some DIY skills and ability to drive zoo vehicles and operate machinery & equipment
- Previous experience of gardening and growing vegetables with a genuine interest in horticulture would be desirable
- Experience of handling gardening machinery and any required certificates of competence
- Previous horticultural knowledge and qualification are desirable but not essential
- Have good communication skills and time management
- No two days are the same at the zoo and we need someone who is flexible and a team player, prepared for whatever is happening that day
- Have the ability to solve problems and adhere to health and safety guidelines
- Must be adaptable and hands‑on and comfortable working around animals
- You will need to be capable of using a variety of tools
- Be physically fit as this role includes a lot of walking, bending and lifting various weights
- Must be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions, including some weekends, during school holidays as well as bank holidays on a rota with the rest of the team
- Full driver's licence and access to a vehicle is essential due to the rural setting of the zoo
- Adhere to zoo policies at all times
- Cooperate with other zoo departments
- Attend training courses as required to meet the requirements of the role
- Take responsibility for own personal development, seeking out opportunities to learn new skills
- Flexibility, willing to undertake any other duties as requested by management which are reasonably deemed to be within the scope of the role
- Working on a rota including weekends and bank holidays, 5 days out of 7, 8am – 5pm (1hr lunch) 40 hours per week
To apply for this role, please send your CV and cover letter, describing why you are suited to the role.
Garden/ Groundskeeper employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Contact Detail:
British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Garden/ Groundskeeper
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the zoo! Before your interview, take a stroll around Northumberland Zoo. Familiarise yourself with the grounds and the animals. This shows genuine interest and gives you something to chat about during your interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Bring along examples of your gardening work or any DIY projects you've tackled. A portfolio can really help us see your hands-on experience and passion for horticulture.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready for a chat! We love team players, so be prepared to discuss how you work with others. Share stories about past teamwork experiences, especially in outdoor or gardening settings.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our conservation mission at Northumberland Zoo!
We think you need these skills to ace Garden/ Groundskeeper
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Horticulture: When writing your cover letter, let us know why gardening and horticulture excite you! Share any personal experiences or projects that highlight your genuine interest in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Role: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight any previous gardening roles or relevant qualifications that make you a great fit for our team at Northumberland Zoo.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid fluff and focus on what makes you the ideal candidate for this unique role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your CV and cover letter, and it helps us keep everything organised!
How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
✨Know Your Horticulture
Brush up on your gardening knowledge! Be ready to discuss your previous experience with plants, vegetables, and any specific horticultural techniques you've used. This shows genuine interest and helps you connect with the team’s conservation ethos.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since this role is all about teamwork, think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others. Highlight your flexibility and willingness to adapt to changing situations, as no two days are the same at the zoo!
✨Get Hands-On with Tools
Familiarise yourself with the tools and machinery you'll be using. If you have any certificates for handling gardening equipment, mention them! Being comfortable with DIY tasks will also give you an edge in the interview.
✨Embrace the Outdoors
Be prepared to discuss your comfort level working outdoors in various weather conditions. Share any experiences that demonstrate your physical fitness and ability to handle the demands of the job, like lifting or long hours on your feet.