Gardener

If you want a career in Gardening, we can offer you some of the most beautiful outdoor spaces in the UK to work in as well as one of the largest plant collections in Europe.

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 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/knightshayes-court

What you’ll be doing:As a hands-on Gardener, you’ll assist in making sure that the gardens are maintained to a high standard. You’ll be passionate and enthused and knowledgeable about the varied plants within the garden. This role will include a range of practical horticultural tasks to develop, enhance and conserve the garden and contribute to the delivery of projects. You’ll be helping with hard and soft landscaping and general maintenance of the garden, such as mulching, pruning, leaf clearing and weeding. You’ll support with the planting and maintenance of trees, shrubs, herbaceous plants. You’ll be helping to cut the hedges and mow our fine lawns. You’ll also take ownership of specific areas of the garden ensuring the highest standards are maintained and healthy plants are available for our visitors to enjoy.

You’ll also support garden volunteers and help them to make the most of their time here. You’ll be expected to interact with the public on a daily basis, answering the many questions, or help out with gardening workshops, tours and helping set up events when needed.

Please also read the full role profile attached to this advert

Who we’re looking forTo be successful in this role you should be able to demonstrate the below:

• Trained as a professional gardener/horticulturalist with a good level of practical experience.

• RHS Level 2 or equivalent.

• Have proven practical gardening/horticulture experience, as well as a strong knowledge of plants

• Confidence to participate in garden activities and events

• Competence with machinery/equipment use and maintenance; including tractors, chainsaws, and pedestrian mowers with accreditation as required for Health and Safety compliance.

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

• 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 locations

• Independent financial advice