At a Glance
- Tasks: Help maintain stunning gardens and orchards while working with a passionate team.
- Company: Join a prestigious estate known for its beautiful landscapes and commitment to excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a structured work schedule with occasional weekend shifts and hands-on experience.
- Why this job: Perfect for nature lovers wanting to make a real impact in horticulture and garden design.
- Qualifications: Experience in gardening is essential; passion for plants and teamwork is a must!
- Other info: Opportunity to engage with VIPs and learn from experienced professionals in the field.
The Gardener will assist the Head of Gardens and Parkland in the hands-on maintenance of the gardens and estate to ensure they reach their full potential in line with the expectations of the principals.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist in the development and maintenance of the walled garden and orchards to the highest standards.
- Mow lawns across the gardens and parkland to ensure a pristine appearance.
- Apply fertilizers and lawn treatments as required.
- Carry out woodland maintenance, including minor tree work.
- Produce compost and maintain composting areas.
- Maintain ponds and rivers within the estate.
- Perform snow clearance and salt spreading during winter.
- Maintain drains and ditches for proper water flow.
- Oversee garden maintenance at other estate properties.
- Ensure upkeep of garden buildings, paths, walls, fences, and gates.
- Undertake weekend tasks such as watering as needed.
- Maintain all machinery and equipment in clean, safe, and working order.
- Manage water features, pumps, and filtration systems, reporting any issues to the Head Gardener.
- Keep service areas, workshops, and team spaces clean and organized.
- Report material and supply needs to the Head Gardener.
- Prune and maintain shrubs, trees, and herbaceous plants.
- Prepare soil and planting beds.
- Plant trees, shrubs, perennials, and bedding plants per given schedules and layouts.
- Weed all garden areas regularly.
- Apply mulch and fertilizers appropriately.
- Maintain paths and roads, including leaf blowing and power washing.
- Maintain and repair garden structures such as sheds, fences, walls, and gates.
- Safely and effectively use hand tools and basic garden machinery, including leaf blowers, strimmers, and lawnmowers.
- Use ladders, platforms, and lifting equipment as required.
- Ensure all machinery is properly maintained and report any issues.
- Adhere to all health and safety regulations.
- Keep all working areas clean and organized.
This list is not exhaustive, and the post holder may be required to undertake additional duties at the direction of the Estate Manager.
Person Specification:
Essential:
- Professional gardening experience, preferably in a large private garden.
- Strong knowledge of garden design, hard landscaping, and operation of light machinery.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- High attention to detail.
- Positive and confident attitude with strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to engage with VIPs.
- Ability to work flexibly and under pressure, sometimes at short notice.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Passion for horticulture.
- Strong decision-making skills.
- Team-oriented mindset.
- Basic IT/computer literacy.
Desirable:
- Experience working in private residential settings.
- Relevant horticultural qualifications (e.g., RHS Level 2 or equivalent).
- Knowledge of sports turf management.
- Health and safety certification.
- PA1 and PA6 pesticide application certification.
- Chainsaw operation certification.
Gardener employer: HL Services (London) Ltd
Contact Detail:
HL Services (London) Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Gardener
✨Tip Number 1
Get familiar with the specific gardening techniques and practices mentioned in the job description. Brush up on your knowledge of garden design, hard landscaping, and the operation of light machinery, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the horticulture field. Attend local gardening events or workshops to meet people who might have insights into the position or even know someone at StudySmarter.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for horticulture during any informal conversations or interviews. Share personal projects or experiences that highlight your dedication and knowledge in gardening.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss how you handle pressure and work flexibly. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed tasks under tight deadlines or adapted to changing circumstances.
We think you need these skills to ace Gardener
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant gardening experience, particularly in large private gardens. Emphasise your knowledge of garden design and machinery operation to align with the job requirements.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for horticulture and your ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your attention to detail and interpersonal skills.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have any horticultural qualifications or certifications, such as RHS Level 2 or pesticide application certifications, be sure to include these in your application. They can set you apart from other candidates.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since effective written and verbal communication is essential for this role, ensure your application is well-written and free of errors. You might also want to mention any experiences where you've engaged with VIPs or worked under pressure.
How to prepare for a job interview at HL Services (London) Ltd
✨Show Your Passion for Horticulture
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for gardening and horticulture during the interview. Share specific experiences that highlight your love for plants and nature, as this role requires a genuine passion for maintaining beautiful gardens.
✨Demonstrate Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with garden machinery and tools. Highlight any relevant certifications you have, such as chainsaw operation or pesticide application, and provide examples of how you've used these skills in previous roles.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Independence
This position requires both teamwork and the ability to work independently. Share examples from your past where you've successfully collaborated with others, as well as instances where you've taken initiative and worked autonomously.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Show your interest in the position by preparing thoughtful questions about the gardens and estate. Ask about the specific challenges they face or the types of projects you might be involved in, demonstrating your eagerness to contribute effectively.