At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to grow and deliver beautiful trees while working outdoors.
- Company: Hillier Tree Nursery, a family business with over 150 years of history.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, comprehensive training, 31 days leave, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Apprenticeships available with structured training and career development.
- Why this job: Perfect for nature lovers wanting hands-on experience in horticulture.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed, just a passion for nature and teamwork.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Hillier Tree Nursery, a prestigious family business with over 150 years of history in the arboriculture industry, is looking for a dedicated Arboriculture Production Operative to join our team in Liss, Hampshire. The role involves all duties connected to the production and delivery of specimen trees.
We are looking for an individual who is an excellent team player with strong organisational and communication skills, a willingness to learn, and a positive work ethic. The successful candidate will be self‑motivated, reliable, and able to demonstrate initiative and flexibility, while working confidently as part of a team. The role requires working outdoors in all weather conditions, so a genuine enjoyment of outdoor work is essential (PPE will be provided). While previous experience in a similar role would be beneficial, full training will be provided for the right candidate. The physical nature of the role means the post holder must be comfortable with manual handling, lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods.
In addition to recruiting for this position, we will also consider applications from individuals wishing to join us as an apprentice, working in partnership with the college to provide a structured training and development pathway.
This role is offered on a full‑time, permanent basis of 39 hours per week, Monday to Friday (7.30am to 4.00pm Monday to Thursday and 7.30am to 3.00pm on Friday). There may be overtime during peak seasonal periods with enhanced rates.
- Rate of pay based on experience
- Comprehensive training on all stages of the tree‑growing process
- Potential sponsorship for college (Level 3 Crop Technician)
- Opportunity to work overtime at enhanced rates during peak season
- 31 days annual leave
- 20% employee discount in our Garden Centres
- Enhanced Employee Assistance Programme for you and your immediate family, including free counselling on health, financial, legal, and personal/family matters
- Retail discounts and offers
- Company Christmas gifts (eligibility based on start date with Company)
- Free access to exclusive retail discounts, deals and coupons, plus extra cashback on your Amazon and food shop
- Free entry to the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey and deals at other gardens nationally
Key responsibilities include:
- Preparing trees for dispatch
- Operating agricultural vehicles and equipment
- Planting and potting stock
- Moving large trees
- Working outside in all weathers
- Loading/unloading trees
- Tying trees
- Formative pruning and shaping
- Propagation
- Irrigation system inspection
- Maintaining good environmental standards
- Maintaining good health and safety standards
Join us and embark on an exciting journey in the great outdoors, no prior experience needed, just bring your passion for nature and a willingness to learn. Please note that we will only consider candidates who are already located in the UK and have right to work status. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, or age.
Horticultural Production Operative in Peacehaven employer: Job Search Place Limited
Hillier Tree Nursery is an exceptional employer that values its employees and fosters a supportive work culture. With over 150 years of heritage in the arboriculture industry, we offer comprehensive training, opportunities for apprenticeships, and generous benefits including 31 days of annual leave and employee discounts. Our team thrives in a collaborative environment where passion for nature is celebrated, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful outdoor work in Liss, Hampshire.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Horticultural Production Operative in Peacehaven
✨Get Hands-On at Local Events
Hit up local horticulture fairs, plant shows, and farmer’s markets. These gatherings are a goldmine for networking and usually attract employers looking for passionate candidates. Chat with the vendors and fellow enthusiasts; you never know who might know about a full-time opening at a place like Job Search Place Limited.
✨Join Gardening Clubs and Online Communities
Become part of local gardening clubs or online forums where like-minded folks share tips and job leads. These communities can often clue you in on upcoming vacancies. Remember, people in these groups often work in the industry and can help us get our foot in the door at places like Job Search Place Limited.
✨Show Off Your Green Thumb
Consider creating a public portfolio showcasing your gardening projects, designs, or any unique plants you've cultivated. A well-documented journey through your horticulture experiences can make you stand out when chasing full-time roles. It’s basically your way of shouting, 'Look at what I can do!' to potential employers.
✨Apply Early and Often!
The horticulture field can be competitive, especially for full-time roles. Keep an eye on seasonal hiring trends and don’t hesitate to apply as soon as positions open up. Check out our website regularly for openings at Job Search Place Limited; staying ahead of the game can give us the edge we need.
We think you need these skills to ace Horticultural Production Operative in Peacehaven
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Green Thumb:In horticulture, it's all about showcasing your hands-on experience. Make sure your CV highlights any relevant gardening, landscaping, or plant care roles you've held. Also, don’t forget to mention any specific skills like plant identification or pest management that make you a great fit for the position at Job Search Place Limited.
Include Certifications and Training:If you've got any horticulture-related certifications, such as in organic gardening or landscape design, be sure to include them. This will set you apart from other applicants and show that you’re committed to expanding your knowledge in the field, which is crucial for a full-time role like Horticultural Production Operative.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect not just your passion for plants but also how your experience aligns with what Job Search Place Limited is looking for. Share specific examples of projects you've worked on or challenges you've overcome in previous horticultural roles to demonstrate your suitability for the full-time position.
Be Ready to Talk Numbers:When applying for a full-time role in horticulture, it's helpful to quantify your achievements. Did you increase crop yields or reduce waste in a previous job? Highlight these metrics in your CV to give hiring managers at Job Search Place Limited a clear picture of your capabilities!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Get to Know Your Plants
Brush up on your plant knowledge! Be prepared to discuss specific species, their growth requirements, and potential pests. Remember, the role involves practical horticultural skills – so don’t be shy about sharing your hands-on experience with various plants and gardening techniques.
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
If you've worked on garden designs, landscaping projects, or community gardens, bring along a portfolio showcasing your work. Visuals speak a thousand words, and this will help us see your creativity and practical skills in action. Plus, don’t forget to have a few stories about challenges you faced and how you overcame them!
✨Be Ready for a Plant Quiz
Prepare for some technical questions related to horticulture! We may ask you about soil types, plant propagation methods, or pest management strategies. This helps us assess your depth of knowledge and problem-solving skills – so don’t skip the revision!
✨Passion for Sustainability
Horticulture often revolves around sustainability practices, so be ready to discuss any experience you have with eco-friendly gardening methods or sustainable designs. This role at Job Search Place Limited might have a focus on environmental impact, so showing your commitment could set you apart from other candidates.
