An opportunity has arisen for a talented and experienced Skilled Gardener to join the team at Castle Kennedy Gardens, Stair Estates in south-west Scotland.Castle Kennedy Gardens are located in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty between two large lochs, one of which is designated as a SSSI. The gardens combine a formal walled garden with landscaped woodland, featuring avenues and earth-terraced structures. They are particularly renowned for their extensive collections and notable specimens of trees, rhododendrons, azaleas and other woody shrubs.Position DetailsAn attractive employment package is offered, including a two-bedroom house with garden and pension. Salary will be dependent on experience. This is a full-time position with normal working hours of 8.00am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday. Additional hours may occasionally be required at weekends, including participation in greenhouse checking, watering and seasonal rotas as necessitated by the needs of the gardens.Reporting to the Head Gardener and the Owners, the successful candidate will assist in maintaining and developing these significant historic gardens. The role would suit an enthusiastic and knowledgeable gardener with a strong work ethic, a keen interest in horticulture and historic landscapes, and a commitment to high standards.Key responsibilities* Maintain trees, shrubs, herbaceous and annual borders, hedges and lawns throughout the gardens* Prune trees, shrubs and climbers & cut hedges using ladders or powered platforms* Take responsibility for specific specialist garden features and areas as agreed with the Head Gardener* Carry out plant care including planting, propagation, division, cultivation, weeding, mulching, feeding, watering, staking and pruning* Operate and maintain horticultural tools and machinery including brush cutters, pedestrian and ride-on mowers, rotavators, tractors and trailersAssist with the maintenance of garden infrastructure* Provide basic guidance to trainees and volunteers under the supervision of the Head Gardener* Act as a polite and approachable point of contact for visitors* Develop own skills and knowledge in a way that supports improvement in the quality of Castle Kennedy Gardens* Embrace new projects and schemes and assist in their implementation* Undertake other duties as required, appropriate to the role and experienceExperienceCandidates should ideally have:* Experience of working in gardens and public parks* Experience operating tractor-mounted and pedestrian horticultural machinery* Experience cultivating a wide variety of plants including herbaceous perennials, cut flowers, climbers, shrubs and trees* Some silvicultural experience* Good awareness of health and safety practicesKnowledge and Training* Practical experience and/or qualifications in horticulture or landscape management (RHS Level 3/4 or equivalent desirable)* Comprehensive plant knowledge including the cultivation and planting of shrubs, flowering plants, hedges and lawns* A keen interest in gardens and historic landscapes* Specialist knowledge of rhododendrons will be an advantage* Familiarity with general horticultural principles and plant husbandry* Ability to work effectively within a team* Experience operating and maintaining garden machinery such as mowers and strimmers. Some or all of the following certificates would be advantageous:* NPTC CS30 & CS31 Chainsaw Operation* Brushcutter / Strimmer certification* PA1 & PA6 Pesticide ApplicationPersonal Qualities* Positive, proactive and well-motivated attitude* Strong attention to detail and commitment to high standards* Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team* Physically fit and able to undertake manual outdoor work* Professional, approachable and courteous manner when interacting with visitors and colleaguesUniform will be provided.The position is available to start as soon as possible.Job Types: Full-time, PermanentPay: £25,000.00-£30,000.00 per yearWork Location: In person