Head Gardener

Derbyshire County Council; East Midlands; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 31,000; Full time

Job summary

Derbyshire County Council is seeking a Head Gardener to lead the team at Elvaston Castle Country Park. This role combines horticultural expertise with heritage conservation, managing a dedicated team to enhance visitor experience and maintain the historic gardens. You’ll have the chance to work in a nationally significant heritage garden and contribute to community engagement and sustainability efforts.

Benefits

Generous Annual Leave Scheme

Local Government Pension Scheme

Wellbeing Support Framework

Training and Development opportunities

Cycle to Work Scheme

Derbyshire Rewards package

Qualifications

• Strong horticultural experience.
• Ability to plan and supervise a team.
• Understanding of heritage and biodiversity.

Responsibilities

• Lead the maintenance of the gardens at Elvaston Castle.
• Manage a dedicated gardening team and seasonal work plans.
• Engage with the community and stakeholders.

Skills

Horticultural experience

Leadership skills

Community engagement

Biodiversity understanding

Job description

Location: Elvaston Castle Country Park, Derby
Reference: JOB/25/01928
Salary details: Grade 8 £28,797 - £30,708 per annum (plus 2025/26 pay award pending)
Job term: Full Time
Appointment type: Fixed Term until 30th June 2026
Hours: 37 hours per week
Closing Date: 06 July 2025

Head Gardener (Landscape Operative) – Bring History to Life Through Horticulture

Do you dream of leading a team in one of Derbyshire’s most iconic landscapes?

We’re looking for a skilled and passionateHead Gardenerto take the lead in maintaining and enhancing the Grade II listed gardens and grounds ofElvaston Castle Country Park. This is a rare opportunity to combine heritage horticulture, biodiversity, and visitor experience in a role that’s as rewarding as it is beautiful.

You’ll manage a dedicated gardening team, shape seasonal work plans, and bring the park’s historic gardens to life for thousands of visitors each year. From planting schemes and conservation to community engagement and events—you’ll be at the heart of a living landscape.

What makes this role special?

• You’ll lead the care of a nationally significant heritage garden
• You’ll work closely with the Elvaston Castle and Gardens Trust, local communities and stakeholders
• You’ll blend traditional horticulture with modern sustainability and visitor engagement
• You’ll help shape the future of one of Derbyshire’s most loved green spaces

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has strong horticultural experience and leadership skills
• Can plan, supervise, and inspire a team of gardeners and volunteers
• Understands the value of heritage, biodiversity, and public access
• Is ready to roll up their sleeves and make a visible difference

We believe that hard work and commitment should be rewarded, and we offer:

• Generous Annual Leave Scheme (25 days increasing to 30 days after 5 years’ service): Ensuring a healthy work-life balance.
• Local Government Pension Scheme: Providing financial security.
• Wellbeing Support Framework: Includes OH physician services, fast track physiotherapy and confidential psychological support services.
• Training and Development: Opportunities for professional qualifications and ongoing training.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Promoting a healthy lifestyle.
• Our Derbyshire Rewards: a package of benefits and discounts.
• & much more

Want to chat about the role?

Drop an email [e-mail] - I’d be happy to tell you more.

Ready to apply?

Whether you’ve worked in historic gardens, public parks, or private estates - if you’ve got the passion and the know - this could be the perfect fit.

Apply here:Head Landscape Operative (Gardener)

We really look forward to hearing from you!