Kitchen Gardener required
Working closely with the Head Gardener in leading, managing and developing a team of gardeners and trainees predominantly within the Production and Nursery area of the garden. To maintain and present the Kitchen Garden and associated areas to the highest possible standards and deliver excellence in organic gardening both technically and aesthetically.
Main Areas of Responsibility:
* Work with the Head Gardener in the planning, and production of fruit, vegetables, cut flowers and indoor plants for use within the organisation.
* Draw up both seasonal and weekly work plans and work alongside the gardeners in carrying out these tasks such as propagation, planting, border cultivation, mowing, hedgecutting, weeding, mulching, etc.
* Supervise and support the Head Gardener with the management of gardeners, trainees and volunteers. This may include training, development, performance reviews and providing input into garden work plans.
* The job holder is expected to resolve day-to-day problems that arise relating to the works undertaken, seeking advice or approval from the Head Gardener where necessary.
* Input when requested into the annual revenue and garden project budgets.
* Support the Head Gardener with ensuring all aspects of Health and Safety legislation are being followed and are up to date. Report any accidents, near misses or dangerous occurrences as necessary. Provide input, when requested, into risk and COSHH assessments.
* Contribute to the preparation for events and tours ensuring the gardens are shown to their highest horticultural standard.
* Carry out practical horticultural tasks such as planting, leaf clearing, etc.
* Maintain high horticultural and presentation standards ensuring that the expectations of The King’s Foundation are met.
* Ensure organic and sustainability standards are met. Ensure that relevant organic theories are put into practice and maintain good links with Garden Organic and The Soil Association.
* Partake in CPD opportunities to enhance your role.
Essential Criteria:
* Previous practical experience in a high quality Kitchen Garden open to the public (3+ years).
* Qualified to National Diploma NVQ Level 3 equivalent level of vocational experience/training.
* Full, manual driving licence.
* Excellent plant identification and maintenance knowledge.
* Competent in the use and care for a wide range of machinery and equipment.
* Experience working in a range of horticultural settings such as ornamental borders, meadows, arboretum and vegetable gardens.
* Understand current health and safety legislation.
* Good oral and written communication skills.
* Good organisational skills and the proven ability to prioritise own work.
* Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times and exercise discretion.
Desirable Criteria:
* Range of machinery certificates.
* Experience of working to organic principles.
Hours of Work:
40 hours per week plus extra weekend watering and operational duties that are required on a rota/seasonal basis.
Additional Information:
This job involves strenuous physical activity including soil cultivation, plant establishment, maintenance and the use of a range of powered machinery.
Closing Date: Friday 4 th October 2024.
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