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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a passionate team to maintain and enhance a stunning 7-acre garden.
- Company: Renowned garden near Burford, celebrated for its beauty and horticultural diversity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £28,000 plus rent-free accommodation in a charming cottage.
- Why this job: Work in a breathtaking environment and make a real impact on a historic landscape.
- Qualifications: Broad horticultural knowledge and experience in diverse gardening settings.
- Other info: Enjoy a physically active role with opportunities for growth and learning.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 32000 £ per year.
Described as ‘one of the most beautiful gardens in England’, this internationally acclaimed garden near Burford, Oxfordshire seeks a full-time Skilled Gardener to work alongside a knowledgeable and experienced Head Gardener. Over the centuries the gardens have been thoughtfully developed and evolved into a distinctive and celebrated landscape, shaped over time by various owners and their horticultural ambitions.
The 7-acre garden surrounding the main property is ever evolving and is thoughtfully divided into distinct rooms and planting areas. The gardens combine sculpted topiary, and lush herbaceous borders, roses, glasshouse with productive kitchen garden areas that provide seasonal vegetables and flowers. Within the gardens there is also a wonderful moonlight garden, formal lawns, young and mature trees, and orchard as well as water features, rills, a water garden. Shaped terraces and earthworks create varied levels and perspectives, and hedges and walls provide intimacy while framing views of the surrounding Cotswold landscape. Maintained to a high standard, the gardens occasionally open to the public, offering a rich, immersive experience for visitors.
Working alongside the Head Gardener and team of 2-3 part-time gardeners; the Skilled Gardener will thrive in a small team, contributing both under guidance and independently, as well as collaborating effectively. Applicants will hold broad horticultural knowledge and experience working in horticulturally diverse gardens in a private estate setting. Knowledge and use of all hand tools, hedge cutters, trimmers, push mowers and ride-on machinery is important as well as the ability to care for herbaceous and shrub borders, seasonal bedding schemes, containers, grass care, greenhouse work and maintenance of kitchen gardens and other general gardening experience. Spray certificates PA1/PA6 and chainsaw certificates would be beneficial but not essential. Candidates will be flexible and willing to extend their duties where needed. As such, this is a physically demanding position which requires a fit and strong individual who is comfortable working in all weathers.
This is an excellent opportunity to join an impressive garden, and to work for an employer who has a strong connection and interest in the garden. Accommodation is provided in the form of an unfurnished, 2-bedroom cottage that comes with its own garden. The property is offered to candidates rent-free, with Council Tax paid for by the employer. Due to the location of the property, a driving licence would be beneficial.
SALARY: £28,000 + Accommodation
LOCATION: Burford, Oxfordshire
How to Apply
If this Skilled Gardener role is of interest, please apply below, call to speak to Sophie Sharpe on 01233 733510 or email info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all qualified candidates.
About Us
We are proud to work with the Professional Gardeners’ Guild, the RHS, the WFGA – offering the WRAGs Scheme, Arne Maynard Garden Design, Historic Houses, and the HBG Training Programme.
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Skilled Gardener employer: ECG Limited
Contact Detail:
ECG Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Skilled Gardener
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the garden! Before your interview, take some time to research the specific plants and features of the garden. This shows your genuine interest and helps you connect with the Head Gardener during your chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Bring along a portfolio of your previous gardening work or photos of gardens you've tended to. This visual evidence can really help us see your experience and passion for horticulture.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to get your hands dirty! Since this role is physically demanding, be prepared to discuss how you handle tough gardening tasks in various weather conditions. We want to know you're up for the challenge!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team and working in such a beautiful setting.
We think you need these skills to ace Skilled Gardener
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Gardening: When writing your application, let your love for gardening shine through! Share your experiences and what makes you excited about working in such a beautiful garden. We want to see your enthusiasm for horticulture and how it aligns with our vision.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this role. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. We appreciate when applicants take the time to connect their background with what we’re looking for in a Skilled Gardener.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant. We value clarity, so make it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for our team!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our fantastic team at this stunning garden.
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 they fit into the garden's design. Showing that you understand the unique aspects of the garden will impress the Head Gardener.
✨Show Your Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your practical gardening skills. If possible, bring along examples of your previous work or be ready to talk through your experience with tools and machinery. Highlighting your hands-on experience will show that you're a great fit for the team.
✨Be Ready for Teamwork Questions
Since you'll be working closely with a small team, think about examples from your past where you've collaborated effectively. Be prepared to discuss how you handle feedback and support your colleagues, as teamwork is key in this role.
✨Embrace the Outdoors
This job requires a love for working outdoors in all weather conditions. Be honest about your comfort level with physical work and your willingness to adapt to changing conditions. Showing enthusiasm for the garden environment will resonate well with the employer.