Full job descriptionDeputy Head Gardener
12-Month FTC (Maternity Cover)
Salary: £29,250 | Hours: 37.5 per week, Monday-Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm
The Role
We are recruiting on behalf of a well-established organisation in the North Cotswolds for a Deputy Head Gardener to support the maintenance and development of a beautiful and diverse garden setting.
Working closely with the Head Gardener, you’ll be responsible for maintaining high horticultural standards across formal gardens and grounds, supporting compliance and health & safety activities, and helping to develop an apprentice. This is a predominantly hands-on outdoor role (approximately 90% of your time spent outside) with the opportunity to step into a leadership position when required.
Key Responsibilities
*Support the Head Gardener in the day-to-day management of the gardens and grounds
*Carry out planting, pruning, propagation and general garden maintenance
*Maintain lawns, borders, trees, shrubs and hedging
*Assist with the care of on-site livestock
*Mentor and support an apprentice gardener
*Promote safe working practices and support H&S compliance
*Operate horticultural machinery and equipment
*Lead the team in the Head Gardener’s absence
About You
*Minimum 3 years’ horticultural experience
*Level 2 Horticulture qualification (Level 3 desirable)
*Strong plant knowledge and propagation experience
*Organised, proactive and able to work independently
*Comfortable working outdoors in all seasons
*Previous supervisory, volunteer management or mentoring experience would be beneficial but is not essential
Benefits
*Company pension
*Life insurance
*Sick pay
*Employee mentoring programme
*Health & wellbeing programme
*Free parking