The Role will be part of Gardens Department and report to the Head Gardener.
We are looking for a person with a passionate and enthusiastic attitude with great overall knowledge and a desire to keep learning more, you will form part of a team who aspire to turn our gardens into an inspirational and truly fantastic place to visit and to work within. Recognised for its outstanding herbaceous borders and stunning glasshouses combined with woodland walks and formal parterre this is a truly unique opportunity for a gardener who is looking to join an existing team and grow their expertise.
Purpose of the role
Floors Castle Garden is an RHS partner: it is a well known Victorian walled garden with herbaceous borders, kitchen garden, parterre and glasshouses. Open to the public all year round Floors Castle is the private residence of the 11th Duke and Duchess of Roxburgh. Therefore, you will be working within both public and private areas.
Recognised for its outstanding herbaceous borders and stunning glasshouses combined with woodland walks and formal parterre this is a truly unique opportunity for a gardener who is looking to join an existing team and grow their expertise.
With a passionate and enthusiastic attitude with great overall knowledge and a desire to keep learning more, you will form part of a team who aspire to turn our gardens into an inspirational and truly fantastic place to visit and to work within.
Key responsibilities
Weeding and border maintenance
To assist in the presentation of the Walled Garden, Millennium Garden and other areas to the highest possible standards.
Pruning
Ensure seasonal pruning occurs in line with best practice.
Watering
Tending to both the daily regimen and weekend watering responsibilities when required. Planting and propagation
Glasshouse maintenance and care
Our glasshouses provide plants, flowers and a range of soft fruits to the Castle. As a member of the team you will support in caring for these year-round.
Upkeep of Vegetable Garden
To provide the highest quality seasonal produce for the Castle Kitchen and retail outlets. Seasonal Events
Our team provides dedicated horticultural workshops for paying customers and assist in the creation of a variety of events and trails for children around the grounds. Examples have been the Halloween, Peter Rabbit and Fairy Tail Trails.
Health & Safety
All staff are expected to observe all health and safety at work regulations as set out by Floors Castle in accordance with its statutory obligations. You will be required to undertake any training that may be required to support this.
Any Other Duties
Undertake any other duties as may reasonably be requested of a member of the Gardens Team in relation to activities and events that take place within the gardens and grounds of Floors Castle. Working outside of contracted hours may occasionally be required. You will be required to work weekends on a rota basis and Bank Holidays.
Qualities you will possess
- You should demonstrate a track record of working in a similar environment with good horticultural practice and knowledge.
- You will need to be prepared to work in all weathers and be physically fit.
- Be able to work under your own initiative with an eye for detail and high standards of excellence. • The ability to work within a team as well as independently.
- Be prepared to interact with the public and provide an excellent level of service at all times.
- Prepared to work on rota for weekend duties.
- Have a real passion and enthusiasm for gardening and horticulture in general. • Prepared to learn and gain new skills.
- Be flexible, adaptable and have the ability to react quickly to change as necessary.
What do you need to be successful?
- RHL L2 or a nationally recognised equivalent horticulture qualification
- Ideally 2 years’ experience of working within the horticulture sector
- Full driving licence
Desirable:
- PA1/PA6 qualification – training will be provided if necessary.
- Competence with the safe operation of common garden machinery/equipment To apply:
For further information or to apply, please send your CV with a cover letter, outlining your suitability to apply for the role, to [email protected]
Salary: £12.21 per hour
Hours of work: Full-time averaging 39 hours per week, Monday to Friday, between the hours of 8.00 a.m. and 5.00pm, during the summer months and 8.00am – 4.00pm during the winter months.
Closing date for applications is 12th March 2025.