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- Tasks: Support the Head Gardener in managing and developing diverse garden projects.
- Company: Join Knepp, a leading rewilding estate with a passion for biodiversity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, potential accommodation, and a vibrant team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on innovative horticultural projects while working outdoors.
- Qualifications: RHS Level 2 or equivalent experience in horticulture required.
- Other info: Flexible, hands-on role with opportunities for personal growth and learning.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
An exceptional opportunity to support Knepp’s Head Gardener Charlie Harpur as Deputy of one of the UKs foremost horticultural and ecological endeavours. This role carries significant responsibility to support the Head Gardener who will be leaning heavily on you to support gardens maintenance, management and ongoing development.
About Us
The 3500-acre Knepp estate is home to the oldest lowland rewilding project in the UK. Knepp’s small gardens team manages a diverse range of horticultural projects within the estate - from experimental and productive gardens, to formal gardens and public spaces. This includes the 1.3-acre Rewilded Walled Garden – a design masterminded by Tom Stuart-Smith and James Hitchmough – providing habitat for over 1000 different types of plant. This project is a unique experiment in maximising garden biodiversity and will be going into its fifth season in 2026.
The gardens team hosts garden tours and workshops weekly throughout the season to both engage and inspire visitors, but also help fund our garden experiment.
Job Description
We are seeking someone who can be flexible, nature-driven, and hands-on, as well as supporting the Head Gardener in the management of the team and the ongoing development of the gardens. Tasks within the gardens team are very wide-ranging, and may include orchard and meadow-work, veg-growing, nursery-work, topiary, organising houseplants and cut flowers, visitor engagement and education, habitat creation, experimental and general horticulture, in all weathers!
Essential Skills and Experience
- Excellent organisation and communication skills: familiarity with spreadsheets, record-keeping and work planning
- A positive attitude to manual working outdoors in all weathers
- Self-motivated and able to work both independently and as part of a team
- Quick learner who is meticulous at carrying out tasks to a high level
- Horticultural qualifications: RHS Level 2 or very similar in Horticulture as a minimum, or proven practical experience
- A strong horticultural knowledge and passion for plants
Desirable Skills and Experience
- Experience and comfort in public speaking
- Comfortable using a range of tools and machinery
- Can adapt to different situations and bring a positive attitude to problem solving
- Driving license and own vehicle.
Salary and Conditions for the Deputy Head Gardener role
£36k per annum
40-hour week, Monday-Friday, with some requirement to work weekends, where time off in lieu is provided.
The Knepp Estate has a number of residential properties that are rented out and accommodation could be provided (if it becomes available) subject to separate discussion.
We value diversity in our team as much as we do in our landscape. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply for roles at Knepp.
To apply
Please apply by email sending a copy of your CV and a cover letter outlining why you are the right person for this job to our recruitment consultant, Michael Walker by email at nationalgardensspecialist@gmail.com
Please note that we expect a very large number of applications for both roles and will therefore need to be selective in the applications we will engage with. All applications must have the full-time right to work in the UK at the time of application.
Deputy Head Gardener in Baildon employer: National Gardens Specialist
Contact Detail:
National Gardens Specialist Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head Gardener in Baildon
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Knepp and its gardening projects. Mentioning specific initiatives or team members can show your genuine interest and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Bring along examples of your previous work or even photos of gardens you've managed. This gives us a tangible sense of your experience and passion for horticulture.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to chat about challenges! Think of a few tricky situations you've faced in gardening and how you tackled them. This shows us your problem-solving skills and adaptability, which are key for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! Prepare some thoughtful questions about the gardens or the team dynamics. It shows us you're engaged and serious about the role, plus it helps you figure out if it's the right fit for you.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head Gardener in Baildon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Horticulture: When writing your cover letter, let us see your love for plants and gardening shine through! Share any personal experiences or projects that highlight your horticultural knowledge and enthusiasm.
Tailor Your CV to the Role: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the Deputy Head Gardener position. Highlight your organisation skills, teamwork experience, and any horticultural qualifications you have.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid fluff and focus on what makes you the perfect fit for our gardens team at Knepp.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Gardens Specialist
✨Know Your Plants
Brush up on your horticultural knowledge before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific plants, gardening techniques, and any innovative projects you've been involved in. This shows your passion and expertise, which is crucial for a role like Deputy Head Gardener.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves supporting the Head Gardener and managing a team, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully worked in a team environment. Highlight any experiences where you’ve led or collaborated with others, especially in outdoor settings.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real gardening scenarios. Think about challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your ability to adapt and thrive in various situations.
✨Engage with Enthusiasm
During the interview, express your excitement about the Knepp estate and its unique projects. Show that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely want to contribute to their mission of biodiversity and rewilding. A positive attitude can make a lasting impression!
