At a Glance
- Tasks: Grow and manage seasonal produce while collaborating with chefs at Osip and The Old Pharmacy.
- Company: Join a vibrant restaurant group committed to sustainable, chemical-free farming.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, hands-on experience, and the chance to lead as Head Grower.
- Other info: Flexible hours, excellent growth opportunities, and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Transition from Assistant to Head Grower and make a real impact on local dining.
- Qualifications: Experience in organic vegetable production and a passion for sustainable agriculture.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 35000 £ per year.
The Assistant Grower is a transitional leadership role designed to develop into the position of Head Grower from September onward. Working closely with the current Head Grower during the spring and summer season, the Assistant Grower will gain full understanding of the systems, standards, and responsibilities required to independently manage two market garden sites totalling approximately one acre. The gardens directly supply Osip and The Old Pharmacy, whose menus are led by seasonality and availability from the land. Each restaurant has a distinct culinary identity and specific growing requirements. The role requires close collaboration with chefs to ensure consistent delivery of exceptional, seasonal produce while maintaining the integrity and long-term health of the land.
ABOUT THE GARDENS
- Approximately one acre under cultivation across two sites in and around Bruton
- Over 200 varieties of vegetables and soft fruit
- Three polytunnels for season extension
- One propagation greenhouse (all plants raised in-house)
The gardens are managed using chemical-free, agroecological principles incorporating no-till/no-dig systems, on-site fertility building, diverse polycultures, green manures, and season extension techniques. Surplus produce is sold to other restaurants within the local area.
TRANSITION STRUCTURE
- April–May: 8 hours per week (£13 per hour)
- June–August: 16 hours per week (£13 per hour)
- From September: Full-time Head Grower role (compensation to be negotiated)
During the transition period, the Assistant Grower will work alongside the Head Grower during peak planting and harvesting season. From September onward, the successful candidate will assume full responsibility for managing the gardens independently, with limited weekly assistance during peak season. This timeline is flexible and can be discussed during the recruitment process.
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES
- Crop Production & Garden Management:
- Propagation, planting, and succession scheduling
- Bed preparation and soil fertility management
- Cultivation and weeding throughout the season
- Managing irrigation for field and protected crops
- Harvesting, washing, and preparation of produce
- Developing and maintaining crop plans in collaboration with the restaurants
- Kitchen & External Communication:
- Ongoing communication with kitchen teams regarding availability and quantities
- Preparation and distribution of fresh lists
- Managing surplus sales and coordinating deliveries
- Planning & Administration:
- Record keeping and yield tracking
- Budgeting and financial oversight of the garden
- Purchasing supplies and materials
- Seasonal planning and preparation
- Infrastructure & Stewardship:
- Maintenance of tools, irrigation systems, polytunnels, and greenhouse
- Maintaining gardens to a high aesthetic and horticultural standard
- Respectful interaction with landowners and their workers
- Hosting tours for media, guest chefs, and restaurant patrons
- Team Leadership:
- Managing occasional helpers and volunteers
- Working independently for extended periods while maintaining high productivity
- Minimum two full seasons’ experience in organic or regenerative vegetable production
- Commitment to chemical-free, no-till/no-dig growing systems
- Strong understanding of seasonality within the South West UK climate
- Competency with human-powered market garden tools and techniques
- Excellent time management and organisational skills
- Clear and professional communication skills
- Full UK driving licence and personal vehicle due to rural location
- Flexibility regarding seasonal hours and occasional weekend work
- Experience growing for restaurant kitchens
- Crop planning for consistent quantities and succession harvests
- Knowledge of agroecological techniques
- Experience leading tours or speaking to groups
- Background in hospitality
- Commitment to professional development
- A strong interest in food and cooking
ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS
DESIRABLE
This job description outlines the general nature and level of work required for the role. It is not an exhaustive list of duties or responsibilities. The company reserves the right to amend or add to this job description in line with business needs. Employees are expected to adopt a flexible approach and undertake reasonable additional duties as required.
Assistant Grower (transition to Head Grower) with Osip Restaurant employer: Organic Growers Alliance
Osip Restaurant offers a unique opportunity for aspiring growers in the picturesque setting of Bruton, Somerset. With a commitment to sustainable practices and a collaborative work culture, employees are encouraged to develop their skills and grow into leadership roles, such as transitioning from Assistant Grower to Head Grower. The company values professional development and provides a supportive environment where team members can thrive while contributing to the culinary excellence of both Osip and The Old Pharmacy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Grower (transition to Head Grower) with Osip Restaurant
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Osip and The Old Pharmacy. Understanding their culinary style and how they use seasonal produce will help you connect with the chefs and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your hands-on experience! When chatting with the hiring team, share specific examples from your previous roles that highlight your skills in organic vegetable production and your commitment to agroecological practices. This will demonstrate that you’re ready to step up as Head Grower.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you have ideas about crop planning or improving garden management, don’t hesitate to share them during your discussions. This shows initiative and that you’re thinking ahead about how to contribute to the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it gives us a chance to see your enthusiasm for the role right from the start!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Grower (transition to Head Grower) with Osip Restaurant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Growing:When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for gardening and sustainable practices. Share any personal experiences or projects that highlight your commitment to organic growing and how you connect with the land.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Assistant Grower role. Mention your experience with crop production, communication with kitchen teams, and any relevant skills that align with our agroecological principles.
Be Clear and Professional:We appreciate clear communication, so keep your application concise and well-structured. Use professional language while still being yourself, and don’t forget to proofread for any typos or errors before hitting send!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. This way, we can easily track your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Organic Growers Alliance
✨Know Your Crops
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of the 200 varieties of vegetables and soft fruits mentioned in the job description. Be ready to discuss how you would manage crop production and what techniques you would use to ensure high-quality yields.
✨Show Your Passion for Sustainability
Since the role emphasises chemical-free and agroecological principles, make sure to express your commitment to these practices. Share any personal experiences or projects that highlight your dedication to sustainable farming methods.
✨Communicate with Confidence
As the Assistant Grower will need to liaise with kitchen teams and manage volunteers, practice clear and professional communication. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous roles, especially in a gardening or culinary context.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions about time management and organisation, especially regarding seasonal planning and crop scheduling. Think of specific scenarios where you had to juggle multiple tasks and how you prioritised them to meet deadlines.
