Trainee Groundsperson

My client, located near Bearsted, Kent, is seeking an enthusiastic and hardworking individual to join the team as a Trainee Greenkeeper/Groundsperson. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with a genuine passion for working outdoors and a keen interest in maintaining stunning landscapes. As a Trainee Greenkeeper/Groundsperson, you will have the chance to learn and develop your skills within a beautiful 80-acre Private Estate environment.

Although previous experience is not essential it will be important for candidates to demonstrate a commitment to pursuing a career in horticulture. As such, it would be advantageous to show a background in working on private estates, volunteering or paid employment. However, full training on the job will be offered, working under the guidance of the current Head Gardener.

The gardens within the 80-acre estate have been developed to provide a biodiverse and sustainable legacy, featuring areas of woodland, hedgerows, orchards, wildflower meadows and biodiverse roofs. The ornamental gardens are planted with naturally drought tolerant plants to create a more sustainable and self-maintaining landscape. Other elements within the estate include an ornamental pond, a tree lined avenue approach to the main property, a sour cherry orchard and over 27,000 native trees have been planted to create extensive areas of future woodland.

It will be encouraged for candidates to wish to engage in an academic program to obtain a relevant qualification; either as an attendee at a local college or as a distance learner which will be supported by the owners. It will be subject to discussion with the candidates as to which of these options is best for the individual and employer.

Under the guidance of the existing Head Gardener, the Trainee Gardener will be learning a variety of grounds management practices, including but not limited to, formal lawn care, maintenance of irrigation systems, weeding and assisting with the installation of new plants. Other aspects of the role will involve general maintenance of the grounds including assisting with pool maintenance, keeping areas of the estate clean and tidy, machinery maintenance and monitoring of sewage treatment plant, borehole and gas and diesel levels.

The job is, of necessity outdoors, with the requirement to work in all weathers and is physically demanding. Candidates will be able to communicate well and possess a friendly and helpful personality with a can-do approach to ensure the job is completed on time to a high standard.

The role is full time with working hours 5 days per week of 40 hours, 7:00am - 3:00pm, with a generous holiday entitlement of 25 days per year plus public Bank Holidays. Due to the remote location and the possible need to travel to college, candidates will need to hold a full driver’s licence with one’s own transport. Salary will be subject to experience but will be at least minimum wage (age related) however the client is happy to explore candidates who may have held some experience within the industry. This is an exciting role for which the successful candidate will gain a thorough grounding in all aspects of private-estate gardening.

Please note that for this role a covering letter is required from all applicants describing why you are looking to get into the horticultural industry, as well as any prior experience you may have had in the sector on a personal or professional capacity.

SALARY: Up to £21,686

LOCATION:Bearsted, Kent

JOB No: EC61162

If this Trainee Groundsperson vacancy is of interest, please apply or contact Sophie Sharpe.

Thank you for the interest you have shown in this Trainee Groundsperson vacancy. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications that we receive, it is not possible to respond to every one. Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application for this Trainee Groundsperson vacancy will have been unsuccessful.