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- Tasks: Care for rare orchids, assist in events, and supervise volunteers.
- Company: Join an award-winning orchid conservation charity with a passionate team.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, training, and contribute to conservation efforts.
- Why this job: Perfect for orchid lovers wanting to make a difference in conservation.
- Qualifications: Passion for horticulture, reliability, and a UK driving licence required.
- Other info: Part-time role with potential weekend work for exciting events.
The predicted salary is between 1040 - 1248 £ per month.
The Mathers Foundation is an award-winning orchid conservation charity based in Pulborough, West Sussex looking after over 20,000 orchids including six National Collections® with state-of-the-art greenhouses. We are looking for an assistant horticulturalist to work with our Head Nurseryman, Jim Durrant. Following the arrival of several new major orchid collections this year, we need an individual to help care for the 20,000 plants cultivated in our glasshouses. Even though these glasshouses are highly automated, the plants still require expert care and attention throughout the year. We seek a grower who is passionate about orchids, their conservation, and horticulture. On-the-job training will be provided by Jim and the rest of the team, including the Founders.
We have Guided Tours and Events throughout our flowering season and collaborate with orchid and other experts to advance our goals in research, conservation, and public engagement.
Position: Part-time
Duties:
- Care for collection of rare and endangered orchids under supervision.
- Assist in Open Days and Orchid Shows.
- Supervise volunteers in basic tasks.
- Assist with documentation of collection – accessioning, taking photographs, and identifying unknown plants.
- Contribute to media work on orchids.
- Assist with selling orchids both at Events and by mail order.
What we are looking for:
- Passion for orchids, horticulture, and conservation.
- Reliable team member who is prepared to go ‘above and beyond’.
- Driver (a driving licence for driving within the UK - this is essential).
- Ideally 3 days a week initially (Mon/Wed/Fri).
- Weekend work (TBC) for Open Days and Events.
To apply: Please send application form and equal opportunity form to gill@orchid.foundation. Our application form is available to download on our website. Please use it as we cannot accept applications via a CV or resume, and we can only consider applications from UK residents or those with the right to work in the UK.
Horticultural Assistant in Pulborough employer: The Mathers Foundation
Contact Detail:
The Mathers Foundation Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Horticultural Assistant in Pulborough
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Mathers Foundation and their work with orchids. Research their projects and values so you can show your passion for conservation during interviews. This will help us see that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with people in the horticulture field, especially those who share a love for orchids. Attend events or join online forums where you can connect with like-minded individuals. This could lead to valuable insights or even job leads!
✨Tip Number 3
When you get an interview, be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with plants, even if it’s just a hobby. We want to hear about your passion for horticulture and how you’ve cared for plants in the past. Show us your enthusiasm!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! Make sure you fill out the application form correctly and include all necessary details. This is your chance to shine, so take your time and make it count!
We think you need these skills to ace Horticultural Assistant in Pulborough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us: Before you dive into the application, take a moment to explore our website and learn about The Mathers Foundation. Understanding our mission and values will help you tailor your application to show how your passion for orchids aligns with our goals.
Follow the Application Instructions: Make sure to download our application form from the website and fill it out completely. We can’t accept CVs or resumes, so stick to the form to ensure your application is considered. It’s all about making it easy for us to see your potential!
Show Your Passion: In your application, let your love for horticulture and orchids shine through! Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your dedication to conservation and working with plants. We want to see that you’re as excited about this role as we are!
Be Reliable and Ready: Since we’re looking for a reliable team member, make sure to mention your availability clearly in your application. If you can commit to the initial three days a week and are open to weekend work for events, let us know. Reliability is key for us!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Mathers Foundation
✨Know Your Orchids
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of orchids and their conservation. Familiarise yourself with the different types of orchids in The Mathers Foundation's collection and be ready to discuss your passion for horticulture. This will show your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since the role involves working closely with Jim and supervising volunteers, highlight your teamwork skills. Think of examples where you've collaborated effectively in a team setting, especially in a horticultural or conservation context. This will demonstrate that you're a reliable team member who can go 'above and beyond'.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask during the interview. Inquire about the specific orchid collections you'll be working with or how the team collaborates during Open Days and Events. This shows your enthusiasm and willingness to engage with the role and the team.
✨Be Ready for Practical Scenarios
Expect to discuss practical scenarios related to caring for orchids. Think about how you would handle common challenges in horticulture, such as pest control or plant identification. Being prepared to share your problem-solving approach will impress the interviewers and showcase your hands-on experience.
