At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain stunning gardens and engage with visitors in a beautiful setting.
- Company: Raby Estates, a historic venue in the North of England.
- Benefits: Attractive salary, 33 days holiday, and discounts at Raby outlets.
- Why this job: Work in a unique environment and enjoy a dynamic role every day.
- Qualifications: Horticultural experience and a passion for gardening and historic sites.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and enjoy behind-the-scenes access to Raby Castle.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Raby Estates are seeking an enthusiastic gardener with previous experience of working within gardens open to the public. Having recently completed an ambitious project to renovate the Historic Grounds and facilities at Raby Castle, we are offering an opportunity to work in one of the most spectacular settings in the North of England. Reporting to the Assistant Head Gardener, you will assist in the care and presentation of historic grounds and recently established gardens both here and estate properties locally.
Responsibilities
- Maintain a high standard of care and practise horticultural excellence in all areas.
- Use a wide range of hand-held tools and garden machinery including tractors, lawnmowers and strimmers, undertaking training where required.
- Assist with the presentation of our plant sales area and propagate stock for sale.
- Support the team in tree and shrub management, fruit pruning and training.
- Engage our visitors with a warm welcome, information and guidance.
- Complete daily pre-opening checklists for safety and quality and adhere to all Health and Safety procedures.
- Provide support at our special events throughout the year.
What to expect
You will work in a public facing position; therefore, you must be confident and courteous in dealing with visitors and equipped to share information about the estate with them. You will be expected to always be presentable, utilising estate workwear and PPE where required. The ability to work flexible hours is a must. Raby is at its busiest during weekends and holiday periods therefore a flexible shift pattern will be required. This list is not exhaustive, and you will be required to carry out any other reasonable tasks as required.
The ideal candidate will have
- Relevant horticultural experience gained in large gardens open to the public.
- Competence in the use of a wide range of garden machinery.
- A keen interest in contemporary gardening and historic houses.
- Practical skills in grounds maintenance and general estate work.
- Attention to detail and high presentational standards.
- A flexible, can-do approach to all tasks.
- Teamworking skills.
- You will need a full, clean driving licence.
Benefits
- Attractive salary
- 33 days holiday, including statutory holidays
- Group Pension Scheme with a 7.7% employer contribution with the option to salary sacrifice
- Group Life Insurance
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Health Cash Plan
- Employee Assistance Program
- Buy/Sell Holiday Scheme
- Free on-site car parking
- Discounts at Raby retail and food outlets
- Discounts for stays at Raby's High Force Hotel
- Complimentary access to Raby Castle and High Force leisure attractions
- A behind-the-scenes tour of Raby Castle
- Invitations to Raby Estate social events throughout the year
- A chance to work in one of the most unique and beautiful venues in the region
- A role that is dynamic, engaging, and never predictable—no two days will be the same
- A supportive and enthusiastic team that makes every workday enjoyable
gardener in North East employer: Raby Estates
Contact Detail:
Raby Estates Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land gardener in North East
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the estate! Before your interview, take a stroll around Raby Castle and its grounds. Familiarising yourself with the gardens and their history will not only impress the team but also help you engage with visitors more confidently.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! During any practical assessments or discussions, be ready to demonstrate your horticultural knowledge and experience. Bring along examples of your previous work or even photos of gardens you've maintained to showcase your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Be flexible and positive! The role requires a can-do attitude, especially during busy weekends and events. Highlight your willingness to adapt and support the team wherever needed—this will show that you're a great fit for the dynamic environment at Raby.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications directly from candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. It shows initiative and enthusiasm, so don’t hesitate to submit your application online and let us know why you’re the perfect gardener for Raby Estates!
We think you need these skills to ace gardener in North East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Gardening: When you're writing your application, let your love for gardening shine through! Share any personal experiences or projects that highlight your enthusiasm and knowledge about horticulture. We want to see how you connect with the plants and the environment.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to align your previous experience with what we're looking for. If you've worked in gardens open to the public, mention specific tasks you’ve done that relate to maintaining high standards and engaging with visitors. This helps us see how you'd fit right in!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to understand your skills and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Raby Estates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Raby Estates
✨Know Your Horticulture
Brush up on your horticultural knowledge before the interview. Be ready to discuss your previous experience in gardens open to the public, and highlight any specific projects you've worked on that relate to historic grounds or contemporary gardening.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Make sure to mention your competence with garden machinery and tools. If you have any certifications or training, bring them up! Demonstrating your practical skills in grounds maintenance will show that you're a hands-on candidate who can hit the ground running.
✨Engage with Enthusiasm
Since this role involves interacting with visitors, practice how you'll engage with them. Think of ways to share information about the estate and its history in an engaging manner. A warm, friendly attitude will go a long way in making a great impression.
✨Flexibility is Key
Be prepared to discuss your availability and willingness to work flexible hours, especially during busy weekends and holidays. Showing that you have a can-do attitude and are ready to adapt to the needs of the estate will make you stand out as a candidate.