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- Tasks: Manage a vibrant garden and lead passionate volunteers in nature-focused activities.
- Company: Natural History Museum, a hub for science and education.
- Benefits: Generous holiday, pension scheme, training opportunities, and discounts at shops and cafes.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in biodiversity while connecting visitors with nature.
- Qualifications: Experience in horticulture and volunteer management, with strong organisational skills.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to environmental education and community engagement.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Gardens at the Natural History Museum function as a living laboratory and teaching hub, supporting large-scale scientific research and outdoor education programmes while encouraging Museum visitors to connect with nature. As Senior Gardener and Volunteer Manager, you will join the Gardens team in striving to deliver high-quality horticultural and habitat maintenance and further develop an existing programme of diverse and passionate volunteers.
Reporting to the Head Gardener, this role will support on the operational delivery of garden maintenance and development, including planning and leading practical horticultural activities and assisting with gardens administration. The successful candidate will have responsibility for managing volunteers while seeking to expand the existing programme through outreach work and co-ordinating with external groups to host placement visits and other training opportunities. Safeguarding nature and biodiversity are central to our operations, and this role will support activities such as species recording and monitoring, as well as relevant public nature focused events. The Gardens team maintain a close working relationship with the Centre for UK Nature, which is based at NHM South Kensington.
The successful candidate will be a skilled and experienced horticulturist with a track record of managing a successful volunteer programme. A passion for plants and nature as well as a keen understanding of the demands of a high-profile public facing garden are essential. The role will require a high level of organisational and administrative skills, and the ability to liaise effectively with a range of internal and external stakeholders.
We are proud to work at the Museum and have identified the qualities we all need to embody to reach our shared ambition. This sits alongside the Museum’s values and forms the framework for the way we work.
What we offer:
- 27.5 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays (full time equivalent)
- Generous defined contribution Natural History Museum Pension Scheme (employer contribution 4 - 10%)
- Season ticket, bicycle and rental loan
- Life insurance
- Free admission to our exhibitions and many other paid exhibitions at museums, galleries and institutions across London and the UK.
- Staff discount at our Museum shops and cafes
- Wide variety of training initiatives and opportunities to build skills.
- Affordable membership to the Civil Service Sports Council which offers a range of benefits including an extensive list of special offers and reduced entry fees at a selection of cinema chains, theme parks, theatres, retailers and supermarkets.
- Membership to our Sports and Social Association (for a small fee), which includes access to our in-house gym and clubs such as football, softball, table tennis and tennis and classes in Middle Eastern dance, yoga and Tai Chi.
Due to the nature of this role the work pattern will be 100% on site.
If this sounds like you, please apply through the NHM Careers portal. Please note that as part of our commitment to anonymised shortlisting, panels do not view CVs during the recruitment process. We advise you to double-check your application form data before submitting as the tool may interpret CVs differently. We encourage early applications where possible.
Closing date: 23:59 on 27 April 2026
Interviews expected: w/c 11 May 2026
Please note that this role does not qualify for Museum sponsorship so the successful postholder will need to have a valid right to work in the UK at the point of offer.
Senior Gardener and Volunteer Manager in London employer: Natural History Museum
Contact Detail:
Natural History Museum Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Gardener and Volunteer Manager in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Gardens team and their work! Research the Natural History Museum's initiatives and think about how your skills can contribute. This will help you stand out during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn, join relevant gardening or volunteer management groups, and attend events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to horticulture and volunteer management. Think of examples from your past experiences that highlight your skills and passion for nature. We want to see your enthusiasm shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, keep an eye on the closing date and apply early to avoid missing out on this fantastic opportunity.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Gardener and Volunteer Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Nature: When you're writing your application, let your love for plants and nature shine through! We want to see how your enthusiasm aligns with our mission at the Gardens.
Highlight Your Volunteer Management Skills: Make sure to showcase your experience in managing volunteers. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and lead a diverse group, so share any relevant examples that demonstrate your leadership abilities.
Be Organised and Detailed: Since this role requires strong organisational skills, ensure your application is well-structured and free of errors. We appreciate clarity and attention to detail, so double-check everything before hitting submit!
Apply Early Through Our Website: Don’t wait until the last minute! We encourage you to apply as soon as possible through the NHM Careers portal. This way, you’ll have the best chance of being considered before we close the vacancy due to high interest.
How to prepare for a job interview at Natural History Museum
✨Know Your Horticulture
Brush up on your horticultural knowledge! Be ready to discuss specific plants, gardening techniques, and biodiversity practices. Show your passion for nature and how it aligns with the Museum's mission.
✨Volunteer Management Insights
Prepare examples of your experience managing volunteers. Think about how you've motivated teams, organised training sessions, or expanded volunteer programmes in the past. This will demonstrate your leadership skills and commitment to community engagement.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Familiarise yourself with the key stakeholders you might work with, both internally and externally. Be prepared to discuss how you would effectively liaise with them to enhance the Gardens' outreach and educational initiatives.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Highlight your organisational and administrative abilities. Bring examples of how you've successfully managed projects or events in the past, especially those that required meticulous planning and execution. This will show you're ready for the operational demands of the role.