Overview

We are excited to announce an opportunity for a Horticultural Specialist to become a valued member of our team at the National Trust.

As a Horticultural Specialist, you will engage actively with the garden team, contributing to all facets of horticultural care. Your responsibilities will encompass daily upkeep and ensuring exceptional standards of plant care; you will also enhance the experience of our visitors through your dedicated efforts. Flexibility in working hours, including weekends and holidays, will be required.

Please include a cover letter with your application, detailing how your skills align with this role and what unique contributions you can offer to our garden.

Work Environment

The estate features a historically significant mansion set within a 25-acre garden, surrounded by expansive parkland and countryside. The property reflects its Victorian heritage, providing insights into the operations of a country estate.

The garden is overseen by the Head Gardener, supported by a team that includes a Senior Gardener, two Grade 9 Gardeners (including this position), a Seasonal Gardener, and a Garden Apprentice, along with a growing number of volunteers.

Key Responsibilities

Your role will involve maintaining the garden and estate areas in pristine condition on a daily basis.

This position primarily focuses on the management of the Woodland Garden, collaborating with team members. Responsibilities will include routine tasks such as:

• Seasonal and formative pruning
• Mulching, planting, and staking
• Operating chainsaws and tractors
• Strimming and other machinery operations

You will also conduct daily safety checks to ensure visitor safety, perform health and safety assessments, and manage tree safety surveys.

Additional duties will involve assisting with the overall maintenance of other garden areas, including:

• Lawn mowing and trimming
• Hedge trimming and recycling
• Bulb and bedding planting
• Weeding and maintaining estate entrances

Candidate Profile

We seek a skilled Horticultural Specialist with relevant qualifications and experience in horticulture, including:

• A passion for horticulture and hands-on gardening experience, particularly in woodland garden maintenance
• Training in MEWP or working at height
• Proficiency with machinery, including tractors, chainsaws, and various mowers
• A valid driver's license
• Capability to manage a physically demanding outdoor role
• Strong interpersonal skills for engaging with diverse individuals
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
• Excellent time management and planning skills
• Basic IT proficiency

Benefits

The National Trust is committed to fostering an inclusive culture where everyone feels they belong. We value diversity and welcome individuals from all backgrounds to join our teams.

Our benefits include:

• A substantial pension scheme of up to 10% of your basic salary
• Free entry to National Trust properties for you and your family
• Rental deposit loan scheme
• Season ticket loan
• EV car lease scheme
• Discounts on gym memberships, shopping, and cinema tickets
• Holiday allowance of up to 32 days, with options for additional leave
• Flexible working arrangements when possible
• Employee assistance program
• Free parking at most Trust locations