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- Tasks: Manage and enhance biodiversity across a stunning 600-acre zoo site.
- Company: Join ZSL, a leading international conservation charity dedicated to wildlife preservation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holidays, and a strong pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in conservation while working in beautiful green spaces.
- Qualifications: Experience in horticulture or land management with a passion for biodiversity.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to creating an inclusive workplace.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Whipsnade Zoo has an exciting opportunity for a new full time permanent Zoo Horticulturalist to join the team. The Horticulture team manages the zoo's 600 acre site as well as surrounding green spaces, the site is diverse with many areas of visitor accessible parkland as well as restricted access regenerative spaces including the site's designated SSSI chalk grassland. The site is rich in biodiversity and the horticulture team strives to ever improve this through the advancement of zoo horticulture and land-based management on site. We are searching for applicants with a drive and passion for biodiversity development with good knowledge or a passion to build on their knowledge of land-based management.
Key responsibilities
- Use facilities, tools, equipment and machinery safely, responsibly and as instructed.
- Carry out and record daily, weekly and monthly planned preventative equipment maintenance.
- Maintain and develop amenity areas and exhibits to defined horticultural standards.
- Carry out horticultural tasks that support animal sections, enhancing husbandry and welfare, while creating and managing habitats to optimise the site’s biodiversity and ecological value.
- Support and guide colleagues in tasks requiring specialised skills, such as machinery use, under the direction of the Horticulture Team Leader.
About You
- Experience in amenity horticulture, countryside management, or a related land-based sector.
- Practical knowledge of plant identification and formal garden maintenance.
- Ability to plan and prioritise tasks effectively.
- Experience or knowledge in managing protected sites, such as SSSIs.
- Knowledge of horticultural, arboricultural, and conservation practices.
- Proactive with the initiative to support the team.
This role is subject to standard pre-employment checks, including confirmation of your right to work in the UK. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
ZSL recognises that conservation is one of the least diverse sectors, and we actively encourage applications from candidates who identify as part of underrepresented communities. We are committed to building a supportive and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive and celebrate the value of having a team of employees with diverse skills, experiences, and heritage.
About Us
We’re ZSL, an international conservation charity. Through our unrivalled animal experts in our two zoos (London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo), the work of our pioneering scientists, our dedicated conservationists, our purpose is to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wild animals going extinct. Our vision is a world where wildlife thrives and we’re working every day to achieve this. From investigating the health threats facing animals, to helping people and wildlife live alongside each other, we are committed to bringing wildlife back from the brink of extinction.
What We Offer?
At ZSL, we are proud of our approach to employee benefits. Our benefits include:
- Purpose driven work - join an organisation where every role contributes to creating a world where wildlife thrives.
- Pension scheme - we offer a generous pension scheme with up to 12% contributory pension.
- Flexible working - talk to us about your flexible working requirements and we will do everything we can to make sure you work in a way that suits you.
- Holidays - 25 days annual leave allowance, plus UK bank holidays (increasing with milestone anniversaries).
Horticulturist employer: Zoological Society of London (ZSL)
Contact Detail:
Zoological Society of London (ZSL) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Horticulturist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the horticulture field, especially those connected to ZSL. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for advice or insights. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get that interview, let your enthusiasm for biodiversity and land-based management shine through. Share your experiences and ideas on how you can contribute to the team at Whipsnade Zoo. They want to see your drive!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical assessments! Since this role involves hands-on work, brush up on your horticultural skills. Be ready to demonstrate your knowledge of plant identification and maintenance techniques during the interview process.
✨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 the ZSL team. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Horticulturist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Biodiversity: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for biodiversity shine through! Share any experiences or projects that highlight your commitment to land-based management and conservation. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to match the job description. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with the responsibilities of the Horticulturist role. This shows us that you’ve done your homework and are serious about joining our team.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role. We appreciate applications that are easy to read and get straight to the heart of what makes you a great fit for us.
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’s super easy to do – just follow the prompts and you’ll be on your way to joining our amazing team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zoological Society of London (ZSL)
✨Know Your Plants
Brush up on your plant identification skills and be ready to discuss specific species relevant to the role. Familiarise yourself with the biodiversity of the site, especially the SSSI chalk grassland, as this will show your passion for conservation and land management.
✨Show Your Practical Skills
Be prepared to talk about your hands-on experience in amenity horticulture or countryside management. Share examples of how you've used tools and machinery safely and effectively, as well as any maintenance tasks you've carried out in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Highlight your ability to work collaboratively with others. Discuss instances where you've supported colleagues or guided them in specialised tasks, showcasing your proactive approach and willingness to contribute to the team's success.
✨Passion for Biodiversity
Express your enthusiasm for biodiversity development and conservation practices. Be ready to share your ideas on how you can enhance the ecological value of the site and contribute to the zoo's mission of inspiring and empowering people to protect wildlife.
