Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to maintain and develop our stunning botanical collection at Paignton Zoo.
- Company: Join Wild Planet Trust, a conservation charity with over 100 years of dedication to wildlife and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days holiday, free zoo entry for family, discounts, and training opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant team making a real impact in conservation and education while working in beautiful surroundings.
- Qualifications: NVQ3 or ND in Horticulture and 4 years of professional gardening experience required.
- Other info: Flexible working hours including weekends; applications reviewed on a rolling basis.
The predicted salary is between 31212 - 34800 £ per year.
Location Paignton Zoo, Totnes Road, Paignton, Devon, TQ4 7EU Salary £31,212.35 per annum Application Deadline Thursday, August 14, 2025 Job Summary
Wild Planet Trust is a registered education, scientific and conservation charity established in 1957 and based in Devon, UK. We own two zoos in southwest England, plus two local nature reserves and a National Nature Reserve. We support conservation in the United Kingdom and overseas using funds generated by the people who visit the zoos and the expertise and dedication of our staff.
Paignton Zoo first opened its doors as the Torbay Zoological Gardens in 1923. Over 100 years later, our site, and work, has grown considerably and we are now one of the South West’s largest conservation organisations and top visitor attractions. Over 230 species of animal call Paignton Zoo home. As well as being a zoo, we are also an award winning botanical garden with over 4,000 species on record.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Head Gardener to join our Botanics team on a permanent contract. This is a full time role working 38.75 hours over 5 days, working hours will vary over a 7 day rota, including weekends and bank holidays. The salary for this position is £31,212.35 per annum.
What will this role involve?
You will be responsible for supporting the maintenance and development of the Botanical collection to maximise its contribution to our goals of conservation, education and research whilst delivering a first-class zoological and visitor attraction landscape. This includes leading a team of gardeners in all aspects of people management and daily planning and supervision of horticultural work required for maintaining a complex and diverse landscape such as Paignton Zoo. NVQ3, ND or above in Horticulture or a closely related field and 4 years of professional gardening experience, preferably within a high-quality horticultural establishment open to visitors. You will be competent in using a wide range of horticultural machinery. Relevant competency tickets are desirable in spraying, tractor driving and chainsaw use/ tree felling.
What skills and experience are required?
The successful candidate will have a relevant qualification and significant experience working in a large public garden, Zoo or similar environment at a senior level. You will have excellent communication skills and a proven track record of leading teams, including in all aspects of Health and Safety (risk assessments, safe systems of work, and safety culture). You will have good IT and record-keeping skills. You will also have a broad knowledge of garden management, landscape planting design and digital plant record-keeping systems. We are looking for an exceptional individual with a positive and enthusiastic outlook who can adapt to change, motivate the team and lead them to work to a high standard.
Benefits of joining our team include:
- 33 days paid holiday pro-rata (inclusive of Bank Holidays) Company sick pay
- Branded uniform provided (as required)
- Relevant internal and external training provided
- Free entry to our zoos for staff and immediate family
- Complimentary tickets
- Discounts in our Catering and Retail outlets (as applicable)
- Free staff parking
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Employee discounts platform
- Opportunities to join our Firearms team (subject to conditions)
Please note, we will be reviewing applications and conducting interviews throughout the advertising period for this role. The role may therefore be filled prior to the closing date.
We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
Job Profile Job Profile document
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Head Gardener employer: Wild Planet Trust
Contact Detail:
Wild Planet Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Gardener
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific plants and horticultural practices used at Paignton Zoo. Research their botanical collection and any recent projects or initiatives they have undertaken to show your genuine interest in their work.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Wild Planet Trust or similar organisations. Engaging with them can provide you with insider knowledge about the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experience in managing teams. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led a team in a horticultural setting, particularly focusing on health and safety practices.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your passion for conservation and education in your conversations. Highlight any relevant volunteer work or projects that align with the mission of Wild Planet Trust, as this will resonate well with their values.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Gardener
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Head Gardener position. Highlight key skills and experiences that align with what Wild Planet Trust is looking for.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your relevant qualifications and experience in horticulture. Emphasise your leadership skills, experience in public gardens or zoos, and any specific competencies related to horticultural machinery.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for horticulture and conservation. Mention specific examples of your past achievements in gardening and team management, and explain why you are excited about the opportunity at Paignton Zoo.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial for a leadership role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wild Planet Trust
✨Showcase Your Horticultural Knowledge
Be prepared to discuss your experience with various plant species and horticultural techniques. Highlight any specific projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to manage a diverse landscape, especially in a public setting like a zoo.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Head Gardener, you'll be leading a team. Share examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on your communication skills and ability to motivate others. Discuss your approach to health and safety management as well.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your practical knowledge and experience with horticultural machinery. Be ready to explain your competency in using tools and equipment, and any relevant certifications you hold, such as spraying or chainsaw use.
✨Express Your Passion for Conservation
Wild Planet Trust is focused on conservation and education. Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for these areas and how your gardening practices contribute to broader conservation goals. Share any relevant experiences that align with their mission.
