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- Tasks: Maintain and develop a stunning one-acre garden in a beautiful private estate.
- Company: Join a dedicated team on a picturesque 300-acre estate in Godalming.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, outdoor work, and the chance to nurture beautiful landscapes.
- Why this job: Create and care for breathtaking gardens while working in nature every day.
- Qualifications: Experience in gardening or landscaping with a passion for horticulture.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic role with opportunities for growth and learning in sustainable practices.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 40000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has become available for a dedicated and skilled Deputy Head Gardener to join a small team on a beautiful private estate in Godalming, Surrey. The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining and developing the one-acre garden surrounding the lake house as well as assisting with the maintenance of the wider gardens. This position requires someone who takes pride in creating and caring for beautiful outdoor spaces, ensuring that all areas are kept healthy, safe, and visually appealing throughout the year.
Set within an impressive 300-acre private estate, the gardens surrounding the Lake House encompass approximately one acre and are maintained to an exceptionally high standard. The style of the garden is distinctly Japanese, featuring mature specimen acers, carefully curated moss species, and a tranquil, naturalistic design that complements the lakeside setting. The gardens also include two beautifully gated areas with manicured lawns and a striking sculpture garden framed by wildflower meadows. Other key features include raised beds, mixed borders, and a variety of mature and young trees, all contributing to the diverse character of the grounds.
While the Deputy Head Gardener will take primary responsibility for the Lake House Garden, they will also assist the Head Gardener in caring for the wider estate gardens. The productive walled garden is managed directly by the Head Gardener. The estate operates on an organic basis, with a strong emphasis on sustainable horticultural practices. Additional support for general grounds maintenance is provided through contractors.
The Deputy Head Gardener will be responsible for carrying out routine maintenance of plants, lawns, trees, and shrubs, including watering, pruning, mowing, weeding, and fertilising. They will also prepare soil and plant seasonal flowers, shrubs, and trees in accordance with agreed plans, while monitoring plant health, identifying pests and diseases, and applying appropriate treatments when necessary. In addition, the role involves operating and maintaining gardening tools, machinery, and irrigation systems safely and efficiently.
The successful candidate will assist with landscaping projects, planting schemes, and seasonal displays, as well as collecting and disposing of garden waste in line with environmental best practices. Maintaining health and safety standards in all outdoor areas will be essential. The Deputy Head Gardener will also ensure that the external areas of the main house are kept clean and tidy, including wiping down surfaces and pressure washing when required.
Applicants should have previous experience in gardening, landscaping, or grounds maintenance, with a solid practical knowledge of horticulture, soil management, and plant care. The ability to use horticultural tools and machinery safely and effectively is essential. Experience in the management of woodland and the use of a chainsaw along with the relevant qualifications will be an advantage. This role requires good physical stamina and a willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions. A strong attention to detail, along with a proactive and positive approach to tasks, will be key to success in this position.
This is an outdoor role that involves working in all weather conditions. The position may also require some weekend work or seasonal overtime during peak gardening periods for which time off in lieu will be given.
SALARY: £35,000 – £40,000
LOCATION: Godalming, Surrey
Deputy Head Gardener in Godalming employer: ECG Limited
Contact Detail:
ECG Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head Gardener in Godalming
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the estate! Before your interview, take some time to research the gardens and their unique features. This will show your genuine interest and help you connect with the team during your chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Bring along a portfolio of your previous gardening projects or any relevant certifications. This visual evidence can really help us see your expertise in action.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to chat about sustainability! Since the estate operates on organic principles, brush up on your knowledge of sustainable horticultural practices. We love to hear how you can contribute to our eco-friendly approach.
✨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 team at StudySmarter and ready to dive into this exciting role.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head Gardener in Godalming
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Gardening: When writing your application, let us see your love for gardening shine through! Share specific experiences that highlight your skills and dedication to maintaining beautiful outdoor spaces, especially in a Japanese garden style.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to match the job description. Highlight relevant experience in horticulture, soil management, and any specific tools or machinery you’ve used. We want to know how you can contribute to our team!
Be Detail-Oriented: Attention to detail is key in this role, so make sure your application reflects that. Check for typos, ensure your formatting is neat, and present your information clearly. A polished application shows us you care about quality!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at ECG Limited
✨Know Your Plants
Brush up on your horticultural knowledge before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific plants, their care, and how you would maintain the unique features of a Japanese garden. Showing that you understand the nuances of plant health and seasonal changes will impress the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare examples from your previous roles that highlight your skills in gardening, landscaping, and grounds maintenance. Talk about specific projects you've worked on, especially those involving organic practices or sustainable horticulture, as this aligns with the estate's values.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Since this role requires a keen eye for detail, be prepared to discuss how you ensure high standards in garden maintenance. You might want to mention your methods for monitoring plant health or how you approach tasks like pruning and weeding to keep the garden looking its best.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your practical skills, such as how you would handle pest management or operate gardening tools safely. It might be helpful to think through scenarios where you had to solve problems in the garden, showcasing your proactive approach and ability to work under varying weather conditions.
