Gardener

Job Description

Summary This role is predominantly based at Greenway where you will spend most of your time. As part of the English Riviera portfolio, there will be a requirement to work at the other outdoor locations within the portfolio to support outdoor teams as need requires.This is a key role in the day-to-day maintenance and development of the garden, taking delegated responsibility for aspects of the work, delivering the highest standards of horticulture, conservation, and visitor experience.This position will work with a small team however at times you will need to work independently. This role will also require you to have experience of working with the public as you will be involved in things such as gardening workshops and tours. What its like to work here Nestling on the banks of the River Dart, Greenway was described as ‘The loveliest place in the world’ by its most famous owner, Agatha Christie.You’ll be joining a small team who are working hard to restore this 34 acre garden to its former glory. A tapestry of different and distinct areas has been created by the various owners of Greenway, each making their mark on the property. The layers of history are crucial to the garden’s presentation, maintaining the spirit of the place.Benefitting from a sheltered position on the south Devon coast, this is a garden for those passionate about plants and horticulture. Featuring woodland, woodland gardens, walled gardens, a fernery and multiple herbaceous borders, Greenway offers everything a horticulturist could wish for.Forming part of the English Riviera portfolio, you’ll have the opportunity to work at other locations nearby such as Coleton Fishacre, Compton Castle or outdoor locations cared for by our rangers.Greenway is located just outside Torbay and due to our location, your own transport is essential. What youll be doing As a hands-on Gardener, you will assist in making sure that the gardens are maintained to a high standard. You’ll be passionate and enthused and knowledgeable about the varied plants within the garden. This role will include a range of practical horticultural tasks to develop, enhance and conserve the garden and contribute to the delivery of projects. You will be helping with hard and soft landscaping and general maintenance of the garden, such as mulching, pruning, leaf clearing and weeding. You’ll support with the planting and maintenance of trees, shrubs, herbaceous plants. You will be helping to cut the hedges, mow our fine lawns and manage our meadows. You’ll work in line with current health and safety legislation and be familiar with machinery maintenance and care. You’ll also take ownership of specific areas of the garden ensuring the highest standards are maintained and healthy plants are available for our visitors to enjoy.This role will require to interact with the public daily, answering the many questions, or help with gardening workshops, tours and helping set up events when needed.You will also support garden volunteers and help them to make the most of their time here. Who were looking for You’ll need to be trained as a professional gardener/horticulturalist with a good level of practical experience, so in order to be successful in this role you’ll have;

RHS Level 2 or equivalent experience

Have proven practical gardening/horticulture experience, as well as a strong knowledge of plants.

Confidence to participate in garden activities and events.

Competence with machinery/equipment use and maintenance; including tractors, chainsaws, and pedestrian mowers with accreditation as required for Health and Safety compliance.

Experience of working within a team and independently.

The package Benefits for working at the National Trust:

Flexible working whenever possible

Free parking at most locations

Discounts in high street stores, cinemas, National Trust properties and cafes.

Free entry to our properties for you, a guest and your children (under 18)

Generous annual leave

Subsidised health cash plan

Free 24-hour support service

Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary

Training & Development tailored to you

Up to 5 days of paid volunteering for you.