Gardener jobs in Earl Shilton

Head Gardener

Job Purpose

We are looking for an experienced, enthusiastic and practical Head Gardener to care for and develop a beautiful private country estate.

This is an exceptionally varied and hands-on role, ideally suited to someone who has a genuine passion for horticulture, trees, landscaping and the countryside. The successful candidate will take ownership of the gardens and grounds, ensuring they are maintained to an exceptionally high standard throughout the year.

The role extends well beyond traditional gardening and would suit someone who enjoys variety, takes pride in their work and is happy turning their hand to a wide range of estate duties. In addition to gardening, the role includes general estate maintenance, caring for a flock of approximately 40 sheep and assisting during lambing season.

The successful candidate will primarily be based at the main estate but will also be required to visit two additional private properties, typically once per month, to undertake gardening, grounds maintenance and general estate upkeep.

This position would particularly appeal to an individual who enjoys working independently, values the outdoors and takes great satisfaction in seeing the direct results of their work.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Gardening and Grounds

• Maintain all lawns and grassed areas to a high standard, including mowing, edging and seasonal treatments.
• Care for and develop the gardens, borders and wider landscape throughout the seasons.
• Plant, prune and maintain trees, hedges, shrubs, flowers and vegetable gardens.
• Monitor the health of trees and plants, identifying and addressing pests, diseases and deficiencies where necessary.
• Contribute ideas and practical improvements to enhance the gardens and grounds over time.
• Ensure driveways, pathways and surrounding areas are kept neat, tidy and free from litter and debris.
• Undertake landscaping projects and general improvements around the estate as required.

Estate Maintenance

• Carry out general day-to-day repairs and maintenance across the estate.
• Undertake a variety of handyman duties, including basic carpentry, painting, fencing and minor building repairs.
• Maintain gates, fencing, outbuildings and other estate infrastructure.
• Clean windows and external areas as required.
• Ensure the estate is always presented to the highest possible standard.

Livestock Responsibilities

• Assist with the daily care and management of approximately 40 sheep.
• Monitor livestock health and welfare and report any concerns.
• Maintain livestock housing, fencing and feeding areas.

Machinery and Equipment

• Safely operate and maintain a range of horticultural and estate machinery, including ride-on mowers, strimmers, hedge cutters and other powered equipment.
• Service and carry out routine maintenance on garden machinery and equipment.
• Carry out basic vehicle maintenance and repairs where appropriate.
• Ensure all tools, machinery and vehicles are maintained in a safe, clean and serviceable condition.

Other Duties

• Drive company vehicles as required.
• Visit two additional private properties on a periodic basis (typically once per month) to undertake gardening, grounds maintenance and general estate upkeep.
• Undertake any other reasonable duties associated with the smooth running and upkeep of the estate.

Person SpecificationEssential

• Significant previous experience in gardening, grounds maintenance or estate management.
• Excellent practical knowledge of trees, plants, shrubs and seasonal garden care.
• A genuine passion for horticulture and the countryside.
• Experience of operating and maintaining garden machinery and equipment.
• Good practical handyman skills and experience carrying out general maintenance and repairs.
• The ability to work independently, manage priorities and use initiative.
• Full UK driving licence.

Desirable

• A recognised horticultural qualification.
• Chainsaw certification.
• PA1 and PA6 certificates for pesticide application.
• Experience working with sheep or other livestock.
• Previous lambing experience.
• Experience operating tractors and agricultural machinery.

Personal Attributes

The successful candidate will:

• Be passionate about gardening, trees and landscaping.
• Take pride in maintaining a beautiful and well-kept estate.
• Be reliable, trustworthy and self-motivated.
• Have excellent attention to detail.
• Enjoy working outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions.
• Be practical, adaptable and willing to undertake a wide variety of tasks.
• Possess a strong work ethic and a positive, can-do attitude.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: From £35,000.00 per year