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- Tasks: Maintain stunning gardens and contribute to exciting horticultural projects at Chester Zoo.
- Company: Join the UK's biggest and best zoo, dedicated to conservation and wildlife.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days annual leave, healthcare plans, and discounts on various services.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on wildlife and visitor experiences while working in beautiful surroundings.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 2 in Horticulture or equivalent experience required.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for career development and growth.
The predicted salary is between 22500 - 30000 £ per year.
Job Title: Horticulturist – Full time, Fixed‑term contract (15 months)
Location: Chester Zoo, North West
Closing date: 26 Oct 2025
Salary: £26 500 per annum (pro‑rated)
Contact: Alex McGinn – recruitment@chesterzoo.org
The Role
As a Horticulturist in the Gardens Team, you will:
- Assist with the maintenance of the feature gardens and planted areas across the zoo site and some of the indoor plantings within our tropical houses.
- Contribute to the team maintaining an excellent standard of horticulture across the site and maximising the sustainability of all horticultural operations.
- Be involved in the development of new horticultural projects and displays within the Zoo to enhance visitor experience and animal enrichment.
- Be responsible for ensuring all safe working procedures are adhered to.
What makes Chester Zoo a great place to work?
We are a huge team of conservationists, scientists, educators, animal welfare experts, marketing professionals, visitor experience specialists, environmental policy influencers and more, all on a mission to make Chester Zoo the best in the world and our planet better. As the UK’s biggest and best zoo, we have ambitious goals and exciting plans. We are an inclusive and diverse organisation of over 600 permanent and 500 temporary team members, investing in our colleagues to boost career development.
The Package
- Full‑time, fixed‑term position based on 40 hours per week for 15 months.
- Working 10 days in 14, including weekends and bank holidays as rostered.
- Operations: Summer 7:00 am–4:00 pm, Winter 8:00 am–4:00 pm (subject to change).
- Salary of £26 500 per annum (pro‑rated).
- 33 days annual leave plus the option to buy or sell up to 5 days.
- Staff pass and multiple complimentary tickets for family and friends.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
- Healthcare plan and employee assistance programme.
- Discounted gym membership.
- Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high‑street shops and more via Perks.
- Pension scheme with generous employer contributions.
The Successful Candidate Will Have
- A minimum of NVQ Level 2 in a Horticultural subject or equivalent experience.
- Proven practical experience in horticulture, preferably working within a garden environment.
- Good working plant knowledge.
- Experience with the use of horticultural machinery.
- Excellent communication skills to engage with visitors.
- An understanding of environmental and conservation issues and a passion for wildlife.
Although Not Essential, The Following Would Be Desirable
- A full UK driving licence.
- PA1 & PA6 pesticide application certificates.
Please note
We reserve the right to close our vacancies earlier than the listed date if we have received a high level of applications. Please apply promptly as shortlisting and interviews may take place while the advert is live.
Apply For This Job
Via Chester Zoo website
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Horticulturist - Gardens 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 Horticulturist - Gardens
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Chester Zoo! Research their horticultural projects and sustainability efforts. This will help you connect your passion for horticulture with their mission during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn. They can give you insider tips and maybe even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical assessments! Brush up on your horticultural skills and be ready to demonstrate your knowledge of plants and machinery during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Chester Zoo team!
We think you need these skills to ace Horticulturist - Gardens
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Horticulture: When writing your application, let your love for plants and gardening shine through! Share any personal experiences or projects that highlight your enthusiasm for horticulture and conservation.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to match the job description. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with what we’re looking for in a Horticulturist at Chester Zoo.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon, so it’s easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for our Gardens Team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via the Chester Zoo website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
✨Know Your Plants
Brush up on your plant knowledge before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific plants, their care, and any horticultural techniques you’ve used. This shows your passion and expertise in horticulture, which is crucial for a role at Chester Zoo.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to share examples of your practical experience in horticulture. Whether it’s maintaining gardens or using horticultural machinery, having concrete examples will demonstrate your hands-on skills and how they align with the job requirements.
✨Engage with Conservation
Since Chester Zoo is all about conservation, be prepared to talk about your understanding of environmental issues and your passion for wildlife. Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your commitment to sustainability in horticulture.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about upcoming horticultural projects or how the Gardens Team contributes to the zoo's overall mission. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
