Skilled Gardener – Vacancy

A rare opportunity has arisen for a passionate and skilled gardener to join our small, dedicated in-house team at the historically significant gardens of a private Grade II* listed country estate in East Sussex, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Following the retirement of our  long-serving gardener, we are seeking a full-time gardener to continue the ongoing care and development of this beautiful and diverse landscape. The grounds encompass formal gardens, herbaceous borders, meadows, ponds, a small kitchen garden and a cutting garden.  The role also involves the care of minor livestock such as alpacas, pig, swan, ducks and geese.

The Role

This is a hands-on, pivotal role for a practical and knowledgeable gardener. You will be responsible for the holistic maintenance and presentation of the gardens and grounds, ensuring they are maintained to the highest standard year-round.

Key Responsibilities

*   All aspects of horticultural care: planting, pruning, weeding, propagation, and soil management.

*   Management of lawns, hedges, and woody areas using appropriate machinery (mowers, strimmers, etc.).

*   Pest, disease, and weed control.

*   Seasonal planning, plant ordering, and nursery work.

*   Routine maintenance of garden structures, paths, and water features.

*   Basic animal husbandry for estate livestock.

*   Working collaboratively to plan and implement projects.

The Candidate

You are an experienced, physically fit, and self-motivated professional with a deep passion for horticulture and a keen eye for detail.

Essential Requirements

*   Proven practical experience in horticulture, with excellent plant knowledge.

*   Proficiency in operating and maintaining garden machinery.

*   A collaborative, ‘can-do’ attitude, with the ability to work both independently and as part of a small, dedicated domestic team.

*   High levels of energy, enthusiasm, and commitment to maintaining exceptional standards.

*   Excellent communication skills and a proactive approach.

*   A full, valid driving licence.

Desirable

*   An interest in the history of gardens and heritage properties.

*   Experience with kitchen gardens, cut-flower production, and small-scale livestock.

*   Relevant horticultural qualifications.

Salary: Competitive salary of circa £30K. This is negotiable and will be complemented by a discretionary annual bonus, with the final figure commensurate with the candidate’s experience.

This permanent role set within a beautiful estate.

To apply, please submit a concise CV (maximum 2 pages) and a covering letter outlining your suitability and passion for this unique role.

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

Tagged as: East Sussex, full time, Private Advert, Skilled Gardener