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- Tasks: Maintain world-class plant collections in stunning gardens and contribute to conservation efforts.
- Company: Join the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and wellness support including gym discounts.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission to protect plants and fungi for future generations.
- Qualifications: Horticultural qualification (NVQ Level 2+) and experience with ornamental plants required.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for continuous learning and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
We are looking for a talented Botanical Horticulturist to join the Gardens Temperate Collections Section which covers a range of high-profile areas. The position is in the Grass Garden, Duke’s Garden, Evolution Garden and Carbon Garden Team. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in maintaining the world class collections. These displays are important components of Kew’s living heritage landscape and visitor offer, and it is critical that they are kept to a high standard. The successful applicant will have an eye for detail, pride in their work and a passion for plants and gardens.
The successful candidate will hold a horticultural qualification equivalent to NVQ Level 2 or above, with experience in ornamental horticulture caring for a range of woody and herbaceous plants. A demonstrable interest in grasses and their cultivation is essential. Experience in turf maintenance, use of horticultural machinery and understanding of carrying out horticultural techniques in a team environment is required.
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth. We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history. Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi.
Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.
We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to interview disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.
Botanical Horticulturist employer: ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS/KEW GARDENS
Contact Detail:
ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS/KEW GARDENS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Botanical Horticulturist
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Gardens and their collections! Familiarise yourself with Kew's unique plants and gardens. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees or alumni from your horticultural studies. They can provide insider tips and might even refer you directly, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for hands-on assessments! Brush up on your horticultural techniques and be ready to demonstrate your skills. We want to see your passion for plants in action!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Kew!
We think you need these skills to ace Botanical Horticulturist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Plants: When writing your application, let your love for plants and gardens shine through! Share specific experiences that highlight your enthusiasm and knowledge about horticulture, especially with grasses and ornamental plants.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Make sure to clearly mention your horticultural qualifications and any relevant experience you have. If you've worked with woody or herbaceous plants, turf maintenance, or horticultural machinery, don’t hold back – we want to see it all!
Attention to Detail is Key: Since the role requires a keen eye for detail, use your application to demonstrate how you’ve maintained high standards in previous roles. Whether it’s caring for a garden or managing a project, show us how you take pride in your work.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our amazing team!
How to prepare for a job interview at ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS/KEW GARDENS
✨Know Your Plants
Brush up on your knowledge of woody and herbaceous plants, especially grasses. Be prepared to discuss your experience with different species and any specific horticultural techniques you've used. Showing a genuine passion for plants will definitely impress the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Highlight your qualifications and any relevant experience in ornamental horticulture. If you’ve worked with horticultural machinery or have turf maintenance experience, make sure to mention it. Practical examples of your work can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Team Player Attitude
Since this role involves working in a team environment, be ready to share examples of how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Emphasise your ability to communicate effectively and contribute positively to a team dynamic.
✨Align with Their Mission
Familiarise yourself with Kew's mission to protect and understand plants and fungi. During the interview, express your alignment with their goals and how your values resonate with their commitment to sustainability and conservation. This shows that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in their work.
