Specialist Gardener

Specialist Gardener / Grounds person

A privately owned estate near Manningtree, Suffolk/Essex Borders.
 

Overview:
This position offers the opportunity to work on a private estate within the area designated as National Landscape / AONB, on the on the River Stour Estuary near Manningtree – Suffolk/Essex Borders.

A series of beautiful gardens and a woodland garden sit within a formal parkland which rolls down towards the stunning Stour Estuary in 200 acres. The parkland is managed to Soil Association standards and has wildflower meadows with grazing livestock and the estate supports an abundance of wildlife. The owner's passion and support to create outstanding pleasure gardens and landscapes is infectious.

The formal gardens consist of a number of compartmental areas within a Walled Garden including greenhouses and a kitchen garden. The Walled Gardens have benefited from design inputs by some of the country's finest garden designers which are interspersed with feature lawns, topiary and hedges. Adjacent to the principal residence which is surrounded by formal lawns the owners have created, over the last 25 years, a woodland garden including specimen trees planted around a shallow valley containing a series of spring fed ponds and lakes.

The existing team consists of a Head Gardener with 2 skilled gardeners so this role would be a fantastic opportunity to learn and develop.

Key Responsibilities

Formal lawn maintenance, weeding, lawn care and the management of the irrigation system. Maintenance of the grounds including driveways, paths and paved areas. Take the lead with yew topiary and hedge cutting Maintenance of the woodland trees, walks and lakes Garden development to include planning of containerised trees and aftercare Operate a wide range of garden machinery and tractors and ensure the overall maintenance of the equipment with specialist contractors. General support for other non-gardening estate tasks including preparation for garden events, and the liaising with outside contractors as necessary. Pest and disease control. Attend training courses and staff briefings as required.

Skills & Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess a keen eye for detail and a passion for maintaining high standards across all tasks. They must be trustworthy, honest, reliable hardworking and happy to work in all weather conditions.

Essential: Full Driving Licence Practical experience in maintaining formal lawn areas, planting, and tree/hedge care Minimum 5 years of horticultural experience Knowledge of health and safety protocols Horticulture qualification progressing toward RHS level 3, or equivalent. Strong work ethic, punctual, and reliable Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Desirable: Qualifications in Turf Management and/or Lawn care Chainsaw qualifications Experience with irrigation systems First Aid at Work (or willingness to complete) PA1/PA6 Certification

Full-Time, Permanent, 42.5 hours per week

Salary: circa £30-£35,000 per annum. Accommodation – may be available

Please send your CV and cover letter to epk@montagueassetmanagement.com