Assistant Gardener (part time)
Assistant Gardener Vacancy
Ashden House are looking to recruit a part time Assistant Gardener to support the Head Gardener in the maintenance of its beautiful gardens which enjoy outstandings views across the Romney marsh. The ideal candidate should be an experienced gardener who is also happy to help out in other areas around the grounds where required with a keen eye for detail. Must be able to perform physically demanding tasks outside in all weathers including using basic garden equipment, machinery and moving and lifting heavy items such as outdoor furniture. Initially 2 days a week but possibly increasing to 3 days per week in the Spring and Summer.
**Applications from Freelance Gardeners will also be considered.**
Working under the instruction of the Head Gardener the role will include the following duties:
- Lawn care – strimming, mowing & weeding
- General gardening – planting, watering & plant care
- Supporting gardening work in the vegetable garden
- Hedge-cutting
- Landscaping
- General grounds care
- Clearing leaves & debris from lawns, paths & gutters
- Logs & kindling – splitting, stocking wood & laying fire
- Outdoor furniture movement & care – preparing spaces for the family and guests, reacting to weather forecasts storing and protecting furniture.
- Assisting with setup of house & garden for the family and guests prior to visits
- Swimming pool and tennis court upkeep
- General light maintenance tasks around the grounds
- Reporting any faults within the grounds or property
Essential skills and experience required:
- Good general knowledge of gardening, comfortable working on their own and using initiative with a can-do attitude
- Knowledge and experience of veg growing, plants, pruning, tree & fruit tree care
- Physical ability and fitness to perform in a physically demanding role working outdoors in all weather
- Experienced in use of basic garden machinery (maintenance experience of equipment would be a bonus)
- Willingness to learn, positive attitude and a keen eye for detail
- A valid UK recognized Driving Licence and be a confident driver. Happy to drive an Iseki ride-on mower and smaller garden lawn tractor.
- Flexibility – able to adapt to weather & garden demands
RHS horticulture qualifications studying or equivalent are desirable
In return we offer:
- £13-£15 per hour (employed rate) depending on experience. **Rates subject to agreement for Freelance Contractors.
- If employed – statutory paid holiday, sick pay and pension
- Development opportunities and support for training as well as the benefit of working with and learning from our Head Gardener who for many years worked under Fergus Garrett at Great Dixter.
To Apply:
Please send your CV for the Assistant Gardener role with details of relevant experience to natalie@newforesthr.co.uk . Please confirm whether you wish to be employed or freelance and your hourly rates if freelance.
Deadline for applications: 21st January and interviews will be held towards the end of January.
Immediate start available for successful candidate.
This private advert is being managed directly by the employer. English Country Gardeners are not involved in the hiring process and are therefore unable to share any additional information on this role. If you have any questions regarding this position, the best course of action is to apply for the job which will open a line of communication with the employer.
If you would like to view more information on the Professional Gardeners Guild, please click here and the Royal Horticultural Society, please click here
For more gardener roles please click here
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