Senior Gardener

Summary

Are you an experienced gardener, now ready to discover a new garden and take on a new challenge? This might be just the role for you. If you’re a dedicated and enthusiastic horticulturist, who's keen to make a difference, then we can offer you invaluable experience and development within one of the National Trust’s much loved historic gardens.

We are currently undertaking our pay review process and it is likely that this salary will be increased from 1st April 2024

What it's like to work here

Over the past four years, the visitor experience at this grand gothic revival house has been transformed by introducing a year-round programme of events, activities and entertainment. The ambitious 40-member team has further plans to grow and develop Knightshayes’ visitor offer and welcome creative customer-focused people to join the team. The property has one of the finest gardens in Devon with a vast plant collection and walled garden which supplies produce to the estate’s Stables Café.

For more information about our property please visit knightshayes-court

What you'll be doing

You’ll be happy working outside in all weathers. And you’ll understand why people love coming to this garden so much, and why your role is vital in making sure that they have their best possible day.  An important part of your role will be supervising the day-to-day management of the garden, to keep it and the plant collection in tiptop condition. But another crucial element will be motivating the team.

As Senior Gardener, we’d like you to lead by example, lead from the front.  You’ll demonstrate exceptional gardening skills, which others can follow and learn from. You’ll understand how to help the team manage their daily workload, and you’ll give inspiring and practical training to new staff and volunteers. You’ll build positive working relationships across the entire site. And you will delight in talking to people visiting the garden, telling them its story and answering their questions. 

Please also read the full role profile attached to this advert.

Who we're looking for

We’d love to hear from you, if you’re:

• someone who combines practical experience in horticulture with appropriate qualifications
• used to supervising others in a similar role 
• highly knowledgeable about plants
• confident in using and maintaining garden machinery, including chainsaws, tractors, hedge-trimmers and mowers (both walking and ride-on)
• aware of relevant health and safety legislation and practices  

The package

The 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 such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts

• Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.

• Flexible working whenever possible

• Employee assistance programme

• Free parking at most Trust places

• Independent financial advice

Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.