Head Gardener

An opportunity has arisen for an experienced and talented horticulturist to join a stunning private estate based near Shaftesbury on the Dorset, Wiltshire border.

This position will suit an experienced and knowledgeable gardener with a desire to take on the maintenance and future development of a horticulturally diverse, typical English Country style garden in order to utilise their full horticultural skill set.

The historic Grade II* listed property is surrounded by 5-acres of new and established gardens. The gardens are currently being renovated by the very talented designer Miranda Brooks, the successful candidate will be working closely with the designer to see the devilment of the garden come to life.

The gardens boast impressive herbaceous borders, bursting with colour and texture throughout the seasons as well as formal lawns, orchard, carp pond and charming topiary sculptures and a new kitchen garden with a wonderful new greenhouse that is yet to be planted and developed.

The grounds are also host to a newly renovated lake with an Oak jetty and decking seating platform along with picnic areas, there is also an additional lake which is yet to be renovated along with streams running through the garden.

Suitable applicants will possess a recognised horticultural qualification as well as extensive experience in horticulturally diverse gardens in a private estate setting. Competence in all horticultural techniques is essential, as is a good understanding of vegetable gardening, plus a passion for developing gardens to reach their full potential.

Candidates will be expected to manage all aspects of grounds maintenance, including lawns, hedge cutting and topiary trimming, pathways and irrigation systems. This is a hands-on role so good physical fitness and a willingness to work outdoors in all weathers is essential.

Practical experience with the use and care of a full range of garden machinery is desired, with a chainsaw certification being advantageous. Applicants should be equally passionate, energetic and experienced hands-on professionals with an ability to manage a small team. This exciting vacancy would be great for someone looking to work in a beautiful part of the country and join the community, making this opportunity a way of life. The owner is an extremely keen gardener and although not always in residence we keep in constant contact with images of things in the garden that are looking at their best.

Working hours are Monday to Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm with holiday entitlement being statutory 20 days plus Bank Holidays (Christmas time they close down for at least 5 days of holiday). An offer to the successful candidate will be based on reference checks as well as a DBS check.                   

If this Head Gardener vacancy is of interest, please apply or contact Jay Rimell.

Thank you for the interest you have shown in this Head Gardener vacancy.  Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications that we receive, it is not possible to respond to every one.  Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application for this Head Gardener vacancy will have been unsuccessful.