Head Kitchen Gardener: Organic Produce & On-Site Stay

Evergreen Rural; Warninglid; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site accommodation

Farm produce access

Job summary

The Naked Farm in Rural West Sussex invites applications for a Head Kitchen Gardener. You will manage productive growing areas including walled gardens, polytunnels, glasshouses and orchards, producing high-quality seasonal fruit and vegetables year round.

The role requires at least three years' hands-on experience in kitchen gardening or vegetable production, with strong organisational and independent-working skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum three years' hands-on experience as Head Kitchen Gardener or in a comparable role.
• Strong knowledge of year-round fruit and vegetables, including protected environments.
• Ability to deliver high-quality horticultural results independently.
• Excellent organisation to plan and manage seasonal growing programmes.
• Ability to work independently and with a small team, plus clear communication.
• Full, valid UK driving licence and own transport due to rural location.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain productive walled gardens, polytunnels, glasshouses, orchards and related growing areas.
• Plan and manage year-round fruit and vegetable production for a steady supply of seasonal produce.
• Oversee propagation, sowing, planting, cultivation, irrigation, pest/disease management, harvesting, processing and storage.
• Apply specialist horticultural knowledge to maximise productivity and uphold high standards.
• Source seeds, plants, materials and equipment to support garden development.
• Maintain records of planting, rotation, yields and activities as appropriate.
• Contribute ideas and practical solutions to improve growing methods and long-term garden development.
• Lead full-time and seasonal gardeners; supervise contractors; ensure safety and standards.
• Support wider farm activities and events with the Property Owner as required.

Skills

Garden management

Seasonal production

Independent working

Organisational skills

Education

Level 2 horticultural qualification

Tools

Tractors

ATVs

Quad bikes

Job description

The Naked Farm in Rural West Sussex invites applications for a Head Kitchen Gardener. You will manage productive growing areas including walled gardens, polytunnels, glasshouses and orchards, producing high-quality seasonal fruit and vegetables year round.

The role requires at least three years' hands-on experience in kitchen gardening or vegetable production, with strong organisational and independent-working skills.