Assistant Gardener

Strategically perched on the perfect vantage point within Castle Ward Bay and overlooking Strangford Lough, Castle Ward’s gardens are one of the best examples of late 17th early 18 th Century gardens in Northern Ireland. This stunning demesne boasts a Victorian parterre sunken garden, a rock garden, pinetum, a large walled garden and the unique Temple Water, a recently restored, man-made canal which is the largest ornamental garden feature to survive in Ireland from the late 17th early 18 th Century.

As Assistant Gardener at Castle Ward, you’ll be working with a team to deliver the day-to-day care of the garden and maintain high presentation standards. This role will include a range of practical tasks to develop, improve and look after the garden and contribute to the delivery of projects.

What it's like to work here:Working at Castle Ward you will work and become immersed in over 400 years of garden history. Your day-to-day role will support the garden team with the delivery of our 5-year garden management plan making you an essential member of the garden team reporting directly to the Countryside Manager. You’ll play a key role working with our volunteer team as well as welcoming visitors to the garden and engaging with them, so they can share your passion of Castle Ward.

You’ll play a key role in delivering our garden management plans, maintaining and enhancing the overall presentation of the gardens.

Investing in you

We want you to learn, discover and develop your career. We’ll do everything we can to offer you the training and support you need to achieve your goals. We’ll work with you to invest in and plan your development in a way that’s right for your needs.

What you'll be doing:Daily responsibilities may include assisting with the planting and maintaining of shrub and borders, mulching, hedge cutting and lawn mowing. You’ll work alongside gardeners and a team of volunteers. You’ll talk to the public every day, answering a variety of garden-related questions and talking about what you are doing with pride. We’re looking for someone with a practical approach to work, getting the day-to-day work done and a passion for plants. The role can sometimes be physically challenging, and we use a wide range of machinery and equipment to help us get our work done. The use of machinery such as tractors, hedge trimmers and pedestrian mowers is essential, but training will be provided.
- Who we're looking forComfortable working in a flexible and adaptable way
- Able to work alone or under direction and as part of a team
- Positive with the drive to get things done
- Keen to learn new things
- Focused on detail
- Passionate about the work you do and happy to share this with visitors

The packageThe National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.
- Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
- Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
- Tax free childcare scheme
- Rental deposit loan scheme
- Season ticket loan
- Perks at work discounts i.e. gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
- Flexible working whenever possible
- Employee assistance programme
- Free parking at most locations
- Independent financial advice

Requirements :Compliance.Eligibility to Work in the UK
Fixed Term f/t (37.5 hrs pw to 30/09/23)