At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and enhance beautiful green spaces at the University of Oxford.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Oxford's Estates Services team.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of annual leave, family leave schemes, and sustainable commuting options.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team dedicated to preserving historic green spaces.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on iconic landscapes while working in a vibrant community.
- Qualifications: Craft qualification in horticulture and good plant knowledge required.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
Are you a Gardener eager to work on iconic green spaces in Oxford? We are recruiting three permanent Gardeners to join our University Parks team within Estates Services at the University of Oxford. You will play a key role in developing and maintaining the green spaces across the University.
Location: South Lodge, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3RF
Contract: Full Time, Permanent
About Us: Spanning the historic streets of the “city of dreaming spires”, the University of Oxford has been ranked the world’s leading university for ten consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world-changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Here, you’ll contribute to an organisation which delivers ground-breaking research that tackles global challenges - from advancing sustainability to pioneering healthcare solutions - and join a diverse, inclusive community that champions your wellbeing, development, and aspirations.
University Parks plays a central role in maintaining the University's extensive green estate, caring for the historic University Parks alongside landscaped areas surrounding academic departments across Oxford. The team helps create welcoming, safe and sustainable outdoor environments that are enjoyed by students, staff, local communities and visitors from around the world.
What We Offer: Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:
- 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service.
- One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.
- Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
- Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.
About the Role: As a Gardener, you will help maintain and enhance a diverse range of landscapes across the University's estate, ensuring they remain attractive, safe and well cared for throughout the year. Your work will contribute to the preservation of historic green spaces while supporting the day-to-day experience of everyone who studies, works and visits the University. Working as part of an experienced team, you will undertake a broad range of horticultural activities including grounds maintenance, planting, pruning, turf and hedge maintenance, and the safe operation of horticultural machinery and equipment.
About You: A craft qualification (e.g. NVQ or City & Guilds) in horticulture or other land-based work, a good and demonstrable knowledge of horticultural practices, experience in the use and operation of a broad range of horticultural, landscape and grounds care equipment, good plant knowledge, full driving licence, and a flexible approach to the work required.
Sponsorship and Right to Work: This role does not meet the criteria for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa under the UK Visa & Immigration points-based system. We are therefore unable to offer sponsorship for this role.
Application Process: The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Monday 10 August 2025. Interviews will take place on Tuesday 18 August 2025 and will be held face-to-face.
Gardener in Oxford employer: Corehr
Sheffield Hallam University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration within the Smart Interactive Technologies Lab. As a Research Fellow, you will have access to cutting-edge research infrastructure and the opportunity to contribute to impactful projects aimed at improving maternal health outcomes, all while benefiting from a supportive environment that prioritises professional growth and development. Join us in making a meaningful difference in healthcare through responsible and human-centred digital innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Gardener in Oxford
✨Get Hands-On at Local Events
Hit up local horticulture fairs, plant shows, and farmer’s markets. These gatherings are a goldmine for networking and usually attract employers looking for passionate candidates. Chat with the vendors and fellow enthusiasts; you never know who might know about a full-time opening at a place like Corehr.
✨Join Gardening Clubs and Online Communities
Become part of local gardening clubs or online forums where like-minded folks share tips and job leads. These communities can often clue you in on upcoming vacancies. Remember, people in these groups often work in the industry and can help us get our foot in the door at places like Corehr.
✨Show Off Your Green Thumb
Consider creating a public portfolio showcasing your gardening projects, designs, or any unique plants you've cultivated. A well-documented journey through your horticulture experiences can make you stand out when chasing full-time roles. It’s basically your way of shouting, 'Look at what I can do!' to potential employers.
✨Apply Early and Often!
The horticulture field can be competitive, especially for full-time roles. Keep an eye on seasonal hiring trends and don’t hesitate to apply as soon as positions open up. Check out our website regularly for openings at Corehr; staying ahead of the game can give us the edge we need.
We think you need these skills to ace Gardener in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Green Thumb:In horticulture, it's all about showcasing your hands-on experience. Make sure your CV highlights any relevant gardening, landscaping, or plant care roles you've held. Also, don’t forget to mention any specific skills like plant identification or pest management that make you a great fit for the position at Corehr.
Include Certifications and Training:If you've got any horticulture-related certifications, such as in organic gardening or landscape design, be sure to include them. This will set you apart from other applicants and show that you’re committed to expanding your knowledge in the field, which is crucial for a full-time role like Gardener.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect not just your passion for plants but also how your experience aligns with what Corehr is looking for. Share specific examples of projects you've worked on or challenges you've overcome in previous horticultural roles to demonstrate your suitability for the full-time position.
Be Ready to Talk Numbers:When applying for a full-time role in horticulture, it's helpful to quantify your achievements. Did you increase crop yields or reduce waste in a previous job? Highlight these metrics in your CV to give hiring managers at Corehr a clear picture of your capabilities!
How to prepare for a job interview at Corehr
✨Get to Know Your Plants
Brush up on your plant knowledge! Be prepared to discuss specific species, their growth requirements, and potential pests. Remember, the role involves practical horticultural skills – so don’t be shy about sharing your hands-on experience with various plants and gardening techniques.
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
If you've worked on garden designs, landscaping projects, or community gardens, bring along a portfolio showcasing your work. Visuals speak a thousand words, and this will help us see your creativity and practical skills in action. Plus, don’t forget to have a few stories about challenges you faced and how you overcame them!
✨Be Ready for a Plant Quiz
Prepare for some technical questions related to horticulture! We may ask you about soil types, plant propagation methods, or pest management strategies. This helps us assess your depth of knowledge and problem-solving skills – so don’t skip the revision!
✨Passion for Sustainability
Horticulture often revolves around sustainability practices, so be ready to discuss any experience you have with eco-friendly gardening methods or sustainable designs. This role at Corehr might have a focus on environmental impact, so showing your commitment could set you apart from other candidates.
