The Vacancy
£29,326 per annum. SE23 3PQ. Permanent, full‑time vacancy that will close in 14 days at 10:00 GMT.
About Us
The Horniman Museum and Gardens is a unique attraction in south east London where world cultures and the natural world are brought together for everyone to enjoy. The Museum holds internationally important collections of anthropology and musical instruments, as well as a popular natural history gallery and Aquarium. The 16 acres of beautiful Gardens feature a tropical Butterfly House and offer stunning views across London.
About the Role
We are looking for a skilled, experienced, enthusiastic Horticulturist to join our Gardens team. In this role, you will help maintain and develop our Gardens to the highest horticultural standards, with innovation, creativity, sustainability and ecology woven into your practice. You will also support our apprentices and volunteers, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for both colleagues and visitors.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain and develop the Gardens, balancing sustainability, ecology and the public in mind.
- Carry out routine garden maintenance and ground care, including mowing, weeding, sweeping, and litter clearance.
- Supervise and support volunteers and apprentices in garden activities.
- Operate garden machinery and vehicles safely, following training and health and safety regulations.
- Assist with visitor enquiries and provide information about horticultural displays.
- Contribute to the safe and smooth running of the Gardens, including opening duties and ensuring compliance with site bylaws.
About You
You will have a passion for contemporary horticulture and a desire to work in a garden that is free at the point of access for the public. You will work well both independently and as part of a team, with excellent interpersonal skills to engage positively with visitors, volunteers, and colleagues. You will be proactive, safety‑conscious, and committed to delivering high standards in all aspects of garden care and visitor experience. You will have experience working in public‑facing gardens and be flexible in your working pattern, including one in five weekends (Saturday and Sunday) and occasional Bank Holidays, with TOIL provided for these duties.
Key Qualities, Skills, and Experience
- A minimum qualification of RHS Level 2 Diploma in horticulture (or equivalent) or equivalent vocational experience.
- Significant practical experience in horticulture, ideally within public parks or gardens.
- Knowledge of plants and horticultural techniques, as well as routine garden maintenance.
- Experience with horticultural machinery and tools.
- Ability to supervise apprentices and volunteers (desirable).
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a positive approach to visitor engagement.
- Commitment to health and safety, equality, and diversity.
- Basic IT skills.
- Willingness to work flexibly, including early mornings and occasional Saturdays.
Apply
To apply, visit our website: www.horniman.ac.uk/about/jobs.
The closing date for completed applications is 10am on 11 November 2025. Interviews will be held on 21 November 2025.
Company
The Horniman Museum and Gardens is a unique attraction in south east London where world cultures and the natural world are brought together for everyone to enjoy. The Museum holds internationally important collections of anthropology and musical instruments, as well as a popular natural history gallery and Aquarium. The 16 acres of beautiful Gardens feature a tropical Butterfly House and offer stunning views across London. The Horniman is the holder of the prestigious Art Fund Museum of the Year 2022.
Benefits
- Employee Assistance Programme – confidential wellbeing service.
- Free reciprocal entry to NMDC (National Museum Directors Council) member sites.
- Free family tickets for paid exhibitions and free visits at other museums when displaying staff ID card.
- Edenred benefit scheme: discounts including shopping, days out, and holidays.
Contact Details:
Horniman Museum and Gardens Recruitment Team
