Sole Gardener – Live out – Private Residence – Chichester, West Sussex

 An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Gardener to take sole responsibility for the care, presentation and seasonal development of the gardens at a private residence near Chichester, West Sussex. The vacancy is also open to skilled gardeners with the right attitude, a strong work ethic, and a genuine willingness to learn and develop within the role. This is a permanent, full-time position working 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with seasonal flexibility required at certain times of the year.

With extensive views across the surrounding countryside, the 10-acre garden comprises a beautifully established mix of formal and naturalistic planting, with immaculate lawns, well-defined hedging and generous mixed borders. The planting has a relaxed, contemporary feel, incorporating ornamental grasses, herbaceous perennials, shrubs and flowering plants to provide texture, colour and seasonal interest. Brick pathways lead through the garden, complemented by clipped topiary and mature specimen trees, while naturalistic areas and wildflower meadows blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Overall, the garden combines high-quality ornamental horticulture and a cutting garden with a number of meadows across the estate, which contribute significantly to the character and maintenance requirements of the property.

The Gardener will report directly to the homeowners, and work closely alongside the Housekeeper to ensure the wider estate runs smoothly. Responsibilities will include the maintenance and presentation of all garden areas, including lawn care, mowing, weeding, mulching, scarification and identifying and treating pests and diseases. The successful candidate will undertake pruning of shrubs, hedges, roses, climbers and ornamental trees, as well as seasonal planting, border maintenance and ongoing garden development. The Gardener will also maintain paths, driveways, patios and other external hard landscaping areas, as well as garden furniture and outdoor presentation areas. Responsibility for irrigation systems, where applicable, composting and the responsible disposal of garden waste will also form part of the role.

The successful candidate will be expected to safely operate and undertake basic maintenance of horticultural machinery and equipment, as well as source plants, materials and consumables within agreed budgets. They will liaise with external contractors when required and coordinate contractors for heavier or multi-person tasks. The ability to independently plan and prioritise seasonal workloads is essential, with the role requiring a proactive and practical approach to the ongoing care of the gardens.

In addition to the horticultural responsibilities, there will be some occasional practical household and estate support. This may include basic maintenance, vermin control, moving furniture, maintaining family bicycles and fitting car roof racks. The Gardener will also help keep the pool and hot tub area tidy, working alongside the pool contractor, and ensure hard-standing areas and other outdoor areas are kept clean and presentable. They will also take part in regular Health & Safety reviews and maintain safe working practices at all times.

Applicants should have experience as a Gardener, Senior Gardener or experienced Gardener within a private residence or high-end garden. A horticultural qualification is desirable but not essential. Strong all-round horticultural knowledge, practical competence and the ability to work entirely independently with minimal supervision are essential. Candidates should have excellent attention to detail, high presentation standards and experience using and maintaining horticultural machinery safely. A full UK driving licence is required. The gardens are mainly maintained using organic methods; however, PA1/PA6 certificates and chainsaw certification would be beneficial.

The successful candidate will be physically fit and resilient, and comfortable working outdoors throughout the year. Full, checkable references will be required, together with an Enhanced DBS check.

The ideal candidate will be discreet, professional and trustworthy, with a strong work ethic and pride in their workmanship. They will be reliable, punctual and well organised, with a calm, practical and solution-focused approach. Above all, they will be committed to the long-term care, development and presentation of the gardens and wider grounds.

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

SALARY:                    £38,000 – £42,000 DOE

LOCATION:              Near Chichester, West Sussex

JOB No:                      EC75411

 If this Sole Gardener vacancy is of interest, please apply below,  call Sara Yassin on 01233 733510 or email info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk

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Thank you for the interest you have shown in this 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 vacancy has been unsuccessful.

We are proud to work with:

• the Professional Gardeners’ Guild
• the RHS
• the WFGA – offering the WRAGs Scheme
• Arne Maynard Garden Design
• Historic Houses
• the HBG Training Programme

Tagged as: full time, Garden Machinery, Live Out, private estate, Sole Gardener, West Sussex