Upminster Gardener

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Upminster Gardener to lead the care and presentation of a Grade II listed estate’s gardens and grounds. This hands-on role involves supervising, planning, and enhancing historic and ornamental landscapes. As an Upminster Gardener, you’ll ensure the estate’s horticultural excellence through meticulous maintenance and sustainable practices.

Key Responsibilities of the Upminster Gardener

• Garden Maintenance: Execute all horticultural tasks, including mowing, pruning, planting, weeding, and seasonal displays.

• Historic Garden Care: Preserve and enhance the estate’s historic features and plant collections with sensitivity.

• Seasonal Planning: Develop and implement seasonal work schedules for routine and specialized tasks.

• Plant Health: Monitor plant health and manage pests and diseases using eco-friendly methods.

• Tool Use & Maintenance: Operate, maintain, and store garden tools and machinery safely.

• Sustainability: Promote biodiversity through composting, habitat creation, and sustainable practices.

• Contractor Coordination: Manage specialist contractors to ensure high-quality, compliant work.

• Health & Safety: Ensure safe working practices and compliance with all relevant safety standards.

Qualifications and Skills for the Upminster Gardener Role

• Minimum of 5 years’ gardening experience, preferably on heritage or large private estates.

• Strong plant knowledge, including formal and mixed planting.

• Proficient in pruning, lawn care, soil management, and seasonal tasks.

• Experience leading teams and coordinating garden work.

• Understanding of historic garden care and conservation.

• Skilled in using and maintaining garden machinery.

• Committed to wildlife-friendly, sustainable practices.

• Basic computer skills (e.g., Excel, digital records).

• Full, clean UK driving licence.

Desirable Qualifications:

• IOSH Managing Safely or other health and safety training (support provided if not held).

• PA1/PA6 spraying certification (support provided if not obtained).

• Experience with historic garden restoration or working on listed estates.

 Benefits of Joining as an Upminster Gardener

• Competitive Salary: Reflecting your skills and commitment.

• Discretionary Bonus: Rewarding your hard work.

• Pension Scheme: Securing your future.

• Annual Salary Review: Supporting your growth.

• Free Eye Test and £49 Vouchers towards Glasses: Caring for your vision.

• Interest-Free Company Loan: Assisting your needs.

• Free On-Site Parking: Providing convenience.

• Cycle to Work Scheme: Encouraging sustainable transport.

• £750 Referral Bonus: Rewarding your recommendations.

• Care First Lifestyle Programme: Prioritizing your well-being.

• Annual Flu Jabs: Keeping you healthy.

• Life Assurance: Offering peace of mind.

• Electric Vehicle Charging Points at Work: Supporting eco-friendly choices.

• Flexible Career Pathway: Facilitating your professional development.

• Supply Chain Academy Education Courses: Expanding your knowledge, including Masters and MBA programmes.