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- Tasks: Join a stunning estate as a skilled gardener, maintaining beautiful gardens and contributing creative ideas.
- Company: Work for a private estate near Dorking, known for its exquisite gardens designed by Chris Beardshaw.
- Benefits: Enjoy a part-time role with 12 days holiday and a competitive salary of £25,000.
- Why this job: Experience the joy of gardening in a picturesque setting while developing your skills and creativity.
- Qualifications: RHS Level 2 or equivalent horticultural qualification and extensive experience managing large gardens required.
- Other info: Work three days a week, with preferred days being Wednesday to Friday, from 8 am to 4 pm.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 28000 £ per year.
Overview
Skilled Gardener – Part Time
A rare and exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and hands-on gardener to join a beautiful private estate near Dorking, Surrey. The current gardener is leaving after 15 years with the owners. This permanent, part-time position offers the chance to work within well-established gardens, in a stunning rural setting. We are seeking a skilled gardener local to the area, available to work 3 days per week. The role is offered on a PAYE basis.
Over the years the 4-acre gardens have been redesigned by one of the UK’s most celebrated garden and landscape designers, Chris Beardshaw. The gardens feature multiple garden rooms, a large kitchen garden, an orchard, formal lawns, wildflower meadow, herbaceous borders, formal topiary, and a promenade of pleached lime trees and a swimming pool garden. The owners welcome ideas from the Skilled Gardener regarding further development of the gardens; candidates with a creative flair are welcomed.
Responsibilities
- General maintenance duties including pruning, propagating, weeding, edging, crop rotation, seasonal mulch and compost management.
- Use and maintenance of a wide range of gardening machinery; maintain machinery between services.
- Desirable: PA1 and PA6 spraying certificates and a chainsaw certification.
- Work year-round to maintain the gardens following the annual calendar.
Qualifications & Skills
- Academic horticultural qualification (e.g., RHS Level 2 or equivalent) and extensive experience in a private estate setting.
- Strong plant knowledge and technical skills in compost management, propagation, spraying, weeding and rejuvenating beds.
- Self-motivated, organized, with a proven track record of managing a large mature English country garden.
- Strong work ethic, willingness to work to consistently high standards, flexibility to extend duties as needed.
- Physically fit and able to work in all weathers.
Working pattern & Benefits
Preferred working days: Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday; however the owners may be flexible. Working hours are 8:00am – 4:00pm. Holiday entitlement: 12 days. Applicants should live within commuting distance and have a full driving licence with their own transport.
Salary & Location
Salary: £25,000 (Based on a 3-day week; full-time salary indicated as approximately £40,000)
Location: Dorking, Surrey
Other requirements
Applicants must be loyal and trustworthy and exercise discretion to respect the owners’ privacy. The successful candidate will be subject to extensive reference checks and a DBS check.
How to apply
If this Skilled Gardener – Part Time vacancy is of interest, please click Apply for job below or contact Sophie Sharpe on 01233 733510 or email info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk. To apply you will need a Candidate Registration. To find out how your personal data is used in our work finding services, please view our privacy policy.
Thank you for your interest in this vacancy. Due to high application volumes, we are not able to respond to every applicant. If you have not heard from us within 14 days, your application has been unsuccessful.
About our partners
- The Professional Gardeners’ Guild
- RHS
- WFGA – WRAGs Scheme
- Arne Maynard Garden Design
- Historic Houses
- HBG Training Programme
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Skilled Gardener – Part Time employer: ECG Limited
Contact Detail:
ECG Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Skilled Gardener – Part Time
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific plants and garden designs mentioned in the job description. Understanding the work of Chris Beardshaw can give you an edge, as it shows your genuine interest and knowledge about the estate's unique features.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with local gardening communities or professionals who may have insights into the estate or its owners. Personal connections can sometimes lead to recommendations that make your application stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your hands-on experience with gardening machinery and any relevant certifications you hold. Being able to demonstrate your practical skills during an interview will be crucial for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your creativity by thinking of potential improvements or ideas for the garden. Presenting a few thoughtful suggestions during your interview can highlight your proactive approach and passion for gardening.
We think you need these skills to ace Skilled Gardener – Part Time
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the specific skills and qualifications required for the Skilled Gardener position. Highlight your relevant experience in gardening, especially with large estate gardens.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects your horticultural qualifications, such as RHS Level 2 or equivalent, and any relevant certifications like PA1, PA6, or chainsaw certification. Include specific examples of your gardening experience and achievements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for gardening and your creative ideas for further development of the estate's gardens. Mention your ability to work independently and your commitment to maintaining high standards.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, double-check for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in a gardening role.
How to prepare for a job interview at ECG Limited
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous gardening roles in detail. Highlight specific tasks you've undertaken, such as managing large estate gardens or using gardening machinery, to demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Demonstrate Plant Knowledge
Brush up on your plant knowledge before the interview. Be ready to identify various plants and discuss their care requirements, as this will show your expertise and passion for horticulture.
✨Bring Creative Ideas
Since the owners are open to further development of the gardens, think of some creative ideas you could propose during the interview. This will showcase your initiative and willingness to contribute to the estate's beauty.
✨Emphasise Reliability and Trustworthiness
Given the personal nature of the role, it's crucial to convey your reliability and trustworthiness. Share examples from your past work where you demonstrated these qualities, as they are essential for building a good relationship with the owners.