An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Head Gardener to join a small team on a stunning 55-acre private estate in rural Lancashire. Set against the backdrop of rolling countryside, the estate is currently undergoing a major development that will see the grounds expand to approximately 140 acres, making this a rare chance for the Head Gardener to help shape and maintain a prestigious garden landscape.
The Head Gardener will play a central role in both the maintenance and development of the gardens, working closely with the estate owners to bring their ideas to life while also contributing their own expertise and vision. The gardens include an ornamental maze, kitchen garden, productive orchard, residential garden areas, and large formal lawns. The estate team currently includes one under gardener and part-time support from maintenance gardeners, with whom the Head Gardener will coordinate and lead daily tasks.
This is a hands-on role requiring a strong working knowledge of horticulture and estate gardening. The successful candidate will have previous experience in a similar role, with confidence in managing a wide range of tasks—from pruning roses and fruit trees, to growing a variety of produce. A strong understanding of propagation and seasonal planting schedules is important, particularly in maintaining the productivity of the kitchen garden.
Applicants should have proven management skills with the capability to inspire a team, and therefore excellent communication skills at all levels are crucial to be successful in this role. Additionally, a solid understanding of health and safety practices is required, and chainsaw and spraying certificates would be advantageous. Candidates must have the ability to use a wide range of garden machinery and equipment. This is a physical role, and the Head Gardener is expected to be extremely hands-on and proactive.
The ideal candidate will be organised and comfortable working independently as well as part of a team. You must hold a full UK driving licence and have access to your own vehicle due to the remote location. PA1/PA6 spraying certificates and a chainsaw licence would be advantageous but are not essential.
This is a full-time position, working 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. The client is seeking someone who is not only highly skilled and passionate about gardening but also committed to becoming a long-term member of the team—someone who can grow with the estate and be part of its future for many years to come.
SALARY: up to £40,000 DOE
LOCATION: Lancashire
JOB No: EC67747
If this vacancy is of interest, please click ‘Apply for job’ below’ or contact Jay Rimell on 01233 733510 or email info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk
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Thank you for the interest you have shown in this vacancy. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications that we receive, it is not possible to respond to every one. Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application for this vacancy has been unsuccessful.
www.englishcountrygardeners.co.uk
We are proud to work with:
- the Professional Gardeners’ Guild
- the RHS
- the WFGA – offering the WRAGs Scheme
- Arne Maynard Garden Design
- Historic Houses
- the HBG Training Programme
Tagged as: full time, head gardener, Lancashire, Lancaster, Live Out
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Gardener in Lancaster
✨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!
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✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like ECG Limited often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
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 ECG Limited does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at ECG Limited
✨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 ECG Limited 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 ECG Limited.
✨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 ECG Limited.
