Summary
**Important notice** In line with our redeployment policy, we’ll prioritise applications from National Trust employees who are under formal notice of redundancy.
As a Gardener for the National Trust, you’ll be a hands-on member of the team, involved in every aspect of horticulture at Mottisfont including working with and supporting our Volunteer gardeners.
Responsible for day-to-day maintenance, and achieving the highest standards of horticulture practice, you’ll also play a vital role in improving the experience of visitors to the garden and wider estate.
You will be asked to work weekends on a rota basis, bank holidays and occasional evenings.
What it's like to work here
Located in the idyllic riverside gardens, between ancient trees, bubbling brooks and rolling lawns Mottisfont is full of surprises. It is full of evolving colour and interest all year round, Mottisfont is a popular visitor attraction and the team are always on hand to provide a fantastic experience for our many visitors. The wider estate includes 1600 acres of woodland, tenanted farms, and a significant Bio- diverse landscape.
Mottisfont is home to a beautiful riverside garden offering a sensory treat with two National Plant Collections and significant history.
What you'll be doing
Under the guidance of one of our Senior Gardeners, you will be helping to keep the gardenin tiptop condition every day. This might involve daily checks to make sure all areas are safe for people visiting, routine tasks such as planting, weeding, pruning and mulching, and using machinery such as hedge cutters, leaf blowers, lawnmowers and tractors.
Other duties might include propagation, tree safety work, garden restoration and assisting to develop the skills of our apprentice Gardener. You will also be involved in recycling and managing green waste, along with the rest of the garden team.
You will need to be able to undertake basic maintenance and confidently operate tractors, ride on mowing machines and other horticultural equipment.
You may also be asked to support events and other busy periods as a member of the property team.
Who we're looking for
Applications from redeployees are assessed against the minimum criteria for the role. In your application, please provide details of how you meet the minimum criteria below:
1. knowledge of practical horticulture and plant care
2. ability to contribute to teamwork and volunteer support
3. understanding of machinery use and safety compliance
4. experience in work programme and project support
5. confidence in communication and public engagement
Criteria for all other applicants:
6. an enthusiastic horticulturist and hands-on gardener, who’s worked with hard landscaping before
7. knowledgeable about plants, with a great eye for detail
8. experienced with machinery, including tractors, chainsaws, rotary and cylinder mowers, and with some knowledge of maintenance
9. a driver with a full licence
10. able to manage a demanding outdoor role
11. good at talking to, and getting on with, all kinds of people
12. equally confident working within a team, with volunteers or on your own
13. able to keep to time, plan and meet deadlines
The package
The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.
•Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
•Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
•Rental deposit loan scheme
•Season ticket loan
•EV car lease scheme (for roles that meet the salary criteria)
•Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
•Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.
•Flexible working whenever possible
•Employee assistance programme
•Free parking at most Trust places