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- Tasks: Maintain beautiful gardens and grounds at Howletts Wild Animal Park.
- Company: Join a conservation-focused team at a unique wildlife park near Canterbury.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days leave, discounts, training, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of real conservation efforts while working outdoors in a vibrant setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in gardening is preferred; a valid driving licence is essential.
- Other info: Work in a stunning location surrounded by rare animals and nature.
The predicted salary is between 22720 - 31360 £ per year.
Closing date: Monday 18th August 2025
Salary: £27040.00 Per Annum, Plus Desirable Benefits
Full time, Permanent Position
The Horticulture department at Howletts Wild Animal Park has a vacancy for a Gardener. Working with the team, the job holder will be responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of our grounds, including the Mansion Gardens.
Duties will mainly include looking after the private and public garden areas including strimming, maintenance of herbaceous, shrub and mixed borders, seasonal displays, hedge cutting, cleaning and weeding paths, steps, and walkways, along with maintenance of the lawns.
Who We Are Looking For
The ideal candidates will have previous experience working as a gardener and using horticultural machinery. Qualifications are an advantage but not essential for this role as experience of similar work will also be considered. You must have good general horticultural knowledge and have a good level of physical fitness as these roles will involve heavy lifting. A valid driving licence is essential as you will be required to drive company vehicles. We are looking for someone who is motivated, enthusiastic, flexible and happy to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
Contract Details
This is a permanent, full-time position. The successful candidate will work five days out of seven, 40 hours per week. Hours are 8.00am – 4:30pm which can include weekends and bank holidays. All applicants must have the right to work in the UK. A reliable mode of transport is recommended due to our remote location.
The locations:
Howletts Wild Animal Park is located near Canterbury and set within 90 acres of land. Howletts is home to over 300 rare and endangered species, including Kents only giant anteaters, the largest herd of African elephants in the UK, and more gorillas, leopards, and monkeys than any zoo in the county!
Most importantly, every one of our employees is part of real conservation in action and their efforts have contributed to animals such as black rhino and western lowland gorillas being returned to their natural habitats in collaboration with our partners at The Aspinall Foundation.
Why You Should Join Us
We’re on a mission to create memorable experiences that matter, and our Core Values ‘One Team’, Customer’ and ‘Pride’ are what drive us each day to become part of something extraordinary. As well as walking to work surrounded by the calls of Howler monkeys and the roars from our pride of Lions, you will join a supportive team who are passionate about their place of work.
Be part of the Port Lympne and Howletts family and join our pride.
You can also expect a host of other roarsome benefits including:
- 28 days annual leave inclusive of bank holidays, rising with length of service. (Pro-rata to start date and working hours)
- Comprehensive training and development opportunities, including workshops and e-learning.
- Enhanced Sickness, Maternity and Paternity Policies.
- Unlimited free entry for you and a person of your choice into both of our parks as well as friends and family tickets.
- Exceptional discounts on food, retail and accommodation at our parks.
- Numerous retail discounts and access to a 24-hour counselling line through our Healthy Extras Scheme.
- A great working environment with lots of social activities
- Company Pension
- And many more length or service-related rewards and Benefits.
Your adventure awaits
#joinourpride
A Full Job Description Is Available On Request.
To apply: If you want to work in an exciting and unique environment where no two days are the same, email your C.V. and covering letter to andrewm@howlettsandportlympne.com #J-18808-Ljbffr
Gardener employer: Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve & Howletts Wild Animal Park
Contact Detail:
Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve & Howletts Wild Animal Park Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Gardener
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific plants and horticultural practices mentioned in the job description. This will not only help you during the interview but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Visit Howletts Wild Animal Park if possible, and take note of the garden areas. Being able to discuss your observations and ideas about their grounds can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former employees of Howletts Wild Animal Park. They can provide insights into the work culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during your application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to demonstrate your physical fitness and ability to handle heavy lifting during the interview. Consider discussing any relevant experiences that showcase your strength and stamina.
We think you need these skills to ace Gardener
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the specific duties and responsibilities of the Gardener position. Highlight your relevant experience in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects your gardening experience, particularly with horticultural machinery and physical fitness. Include any relevant qualifications or training, even if they are not essential.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for gardening and conservation. Mention why you want to work at Howletts Wild Animal Park and how your values align with theirs.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, double-check your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application shows attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve & Howletts Wild Animal Park
✨Show Your Passion for Horticulture
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for gardening and horticulture during the interview. Share specific examples of your previous experiences, such as projects you've worked on or plants you've cultivated, to demonstrate your genuine interest in the field.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Discuss any previous roles where you used horticultural machinery or maintained gardens. If you have experience with heavy lifting or working outdoors in various weather conditions, be sure to mention this, as it aligns with the job requirements.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since the role involves working closely with a team, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've contributed to a team environment in past jobs, showcasing your flexibility and motivation.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Come prepared with thoughtful questions about the position and the team at Howletts Wild Animal Park. This shows your interest in the role and helps you understand more about the work culture and expectations.