Lead Gardener & Project Mentor for Historic Grounds

Corehr; Oxford; On-site; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

38 days annual leave

Long‑term family leave scheme

Cycle loan scheme

Public transport discounts

Clubs and community activities

Job summary

Oxford University Parks is seeking an experienced Senior Gardener to lead on projects and mentor the next generation of green space professionals. The role focuses on high-quality grounds maintenance across the university estate, with opportunities to develop leadership and technical skills.

You will contribute to seasonal planting, lawn care, borders, shrubs, and safe machinery operation while supporting day-to-day operations and team mentoring.

Qualifications

• Relevant craft qualification in horticulture required.
• PA1 and PA6 pesticide certification required.
• Full driving licence necessary.

Responsibilities

• Lead small project teams on grounds maintenance.
• Seasonal planting and lawn care across university grounds.
• Border and shrub maintenance and landscape scheme implementation.
• Proficient in safe operation of horticultural machinery.

Skills

Team leadership

Mentoring

Practical horticulture

Education

NVQ Level 2 or City & Guilds

BTEC National Diploma

NCH certificate

Tools

Safe machinery operation

Job description

Oxford University Parks is seeking an experienced Senior Gardener to lead on projects and mentor the next generation of green space professionals. The role focuses on high-quality grounds maintenance across the university estate, with opportunities to develop leadership and technical skills.

You will contribute to seasonal planting, lawn care, borders, shrubs, and safe machinery operation while supporting day-to-day operations and team mentoring.