Productive Kitchen Gardener

The Heath House; Upper Tean; On-site; GBP 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A private family estate in Upper Tean is seeking a Productive (Kitchen) Gardener to cultivate high-quality edible produce and maintain aesthetically pleasing gardens. This full-time role requires a minimum of two years of horticultural experience, a relevant certificate or diploma, and a solid understanding of organic gardening practices. The gardener will work closely with the Productive Garden Lead and take part in the estate's restoration projects. Salary of up to £28,000 p.a. with benefits including professional development and pension scheme.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Workplace pension scheme

Annual Leave: 33 days including bank holidays

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years of horticultural experience in a Kitchen Garden or similar environment.
• Advanced understanding of horticultural techniques and practices.
• Relevant experience in organic cultivation methods.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and develop the Kitchen Gardens to professional standards.
• Cultivate and harvest produce according to the estate's requirements.
• Collaborate across the estate to enhance family experience.
• Engage in professional development and share best practices.

Skills

Horticultural experience

Knowledge of organic cultivation

Plant identification skills

IT skills for management systems

Driving license

Education

Certificate/Diploma in horticulture or related field

Tools

Machinery operation certificates

Job description

Department/Division: Gardens Team
Based at: The Heath House
Reports to: Productive Garden Lead
Employment type: Full-time
Normal hours: Flexible, 5 days out of 7
Basic salary: Dependent on experience and qualifications, up to £28,000 p.a.
Annual Leave: 33 days p.a., including bank holidays
Statutory Entitlements: All statutory entitlements, including SSP, workplace pension etc
Employment term: Permanent

About The Heath House

The Heath House is a private family estate with extensive gardens and woodlands. As custodians, we are in the early stages of planning a restoration and reimagining project aimed at preserving the estate's buildings and landscape. Our vision for the estate includes sustainable productive garden management.

Position Summary:

Under the direct supervision of the Productive Lead, the Productive (Kitchen) Gardener is responsible for cultivating high-quality, edible produce in line with the estate’s food vision, while maintaining an aesthetically appealing garden. The role involves supporting daily care, cultivation, and maintenance of the Walled Garden, as well as contributing to various garden improvement projects (Orchard and future productive garden developments). The ideal candidate will have solid experience in growing fruits and vegetables, along with the ability to lead or collaborate effectively within a team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Productive Garden Maintenance & Development: Deliver the Kitchen Gardens development plan and planting schedule, ensuring the gardens are maintained to professional horticultural standard. This includes the cultivation of edible produce, adhering to organic and no-dig gardening principles.
• Produce Cultivation & Harvesting: Provide high-quality produce aligned with the estate’s harvesting schedule and specifications to support the Main House. Maintain accurate records of all produce supplied.
• Engagement: Enhance the family experience representing the values and vision of the estate, working collaboratively across the Estate.
• Professional Development: Stay informed on industry developments by participating in professional societies and organizations. Share knowledge and ideas to continually improve horticultural practices, striving for excellence in all areas of cultivation.
• Horticultural Excellence: Apply the highest horticultural standards and techniques to establish and maintain the Kitchen Gardens. This includes routine maintenance and special projects as needed.

Skills and Experience:

• A minimum of two years of horticultural experience in a Kitchen Garden or similar environment.
• Certificate/Diploma in horticulture, or a related field, with 2-3 years of experience; or 4 years of equivalent horticultural experience and training.
• Knowledge of organic cultivation practices is desirable.
• Advanced understanding of horticultural techniques and practices, including planting, weed identification and control, and the specific cultural needs of edible plants.
• Strong general plant identification skills, especially related to productive gardening.
• Relevant machinery certificates an advantage
• Adequate IT skills for implementing efficient management systems and records are an essential requisite.
• Full and clean UK driving license.

Terms and Conditions

• Competitive remuneration package up to £28,000 p.a. to be discussed with short listed candidates.
• Professional membership and reasonable professional development and training costs covered.
• Workplace pension scheme available.

Application Process

Candidates should send their application letter, CV, and references to [e-mail].