Senior Gardener - Production

West Sussex.info; Chichester; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary based on experience

Generous annual leave

Pension contributions

Discounts on retail, events, and courses

Free access to West Dean Gardens

Subsidised accommodation

Free on-site parking

Job summary

West Dean Gardens is seeking a Senior Gardener - Production in Chichester, UK. This permanent full-time role involves leading the production of high-quality plants, fruits, and vegetables. Candidates should have significant horticulture experience, strong knowledge of plant propagation, and experience in supervising teams. The position offers competitive salary, generous leave, discounts at West Dean, and on-site facilities access. If you're passionate about horticulture and sustainability, apply now to join our team!

Qualifications

• Significant experience in productive horticulture or market gardening.
• Strong knowledge of plant propagation, nursery management and seasonal production.
• Experience in supervising and coordinating a team.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate the production of fruit, vegetables and plants.
• Plan and manage seasonal growing schedules.
• Oversee the harvesting and distribution of produce.
• Manage plant propagation and nursery operations.
• Develop relationships with local food producers.
• Supervise team members and support their development.
• Support sustainability initiatives.

Skills

Productive horticulture experience

Plant propagation knowledge

Team supervision

RHS Level 3 qualification

Organizational skills

Sustainability commitment

Education

RHS Level 3 qualification in horticulture

Job description

Helping people find jobs in the local area since 2008

Location Chichester

Contract Permanent

Hours Full Time- 39 hours per week, Monday to Friday (with occasional weekends on a rota basis)

Join Our Team: Senior Gardener - Production at West Dean Gardens, West Sussex

West Dean Gardens is seeking a dedicated and experienced Senior Gardener - Production to lead our plant, fruit, and vegetable production across the estate. This is a fantastic opportunity to take charge of a vital part of our horticultural operations and contribute to the sustainability and growth of our renowned Gardens.

As Senior Gardener - Production, you will oversee the day-to-day delivery of high-quality produce and plant stock across our Nurseries, Market Garden, and Campus Plots. You will manage the entire process from planning seasonal growing schedules to harvesting and distributing produce to our kitchens, retail outlets and external partners. Working closely with the Head Gardener and Deputy Head Gardener, you will supervise a team of gardeners, trainees and volunteers, ensuring the successful and efficient production of food and plants to support both internal and external demands.

The role offers a unique opportunity to enhance our sustainable horticulture practices, from applying no-dig methods and peat-free growing techniques to increasing income through local partnerships and community initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate the production of fruit, vegetables and plants across the Market Garden, Nurseries and Campus Plots.
• Plan and manage seasonal growing schedules, including seed sowing, propagation and crop rotation.
• Oversee the harvesting, processing and distribution of produce to West Dean kitchens and retail outlets.
• Manage plant propagation and nursery operations for retail and garden use, including increasing the volume of plants propagated from West Dean collections.
• Develop and maintain relationships with local food producers, restaurants and florists to support income generation.
• Supervise gardeners, trainees, volunteers and casual staff, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and providing support for their development.
• Support sustainability initiatives including composting, no-dig gardening and peat-free growing practices.
• Share your knowledge with students, visitors and volunteers, enhancing engagement and learning opportunities.

What We’re Looking For

• Significant experience in productive horticulture or market gardening.
• Strong knowledge of plant propagation, nursery management and seasonal production.
• Experience in supervising and coordinating a team.
• An RHS Level 3 qualification (or equivalent) in horticulture.
• Practical, hands-on and proactive approach with excellent organisational skills.
• A passion for sustainable horticulture and a commitment to producing high-quality, locally grown food and plants.

Benefits

• Salary: Competitive, based on experience.
• Generous annual leave and pension contributions.
• Opportunities to contribute to the development of the estate's sustainable horticultural practices.
• Discounts on retail, events and short courses at West Dean College.
• Free access to West Dean Gardens and on- site facilities including the swimming pool and tennis courts.
• Subsidised accommodation and free on-site parking.

This permanent, full-time position offers the chance to work at one of the most prestigious garden estates in the UK, in a dynamic and supportive environment. If you have a passion for horticulture, sustainable practices and leadership, we’d love to hear from you!

Apply now to join West Dean Gardens and help us shape the future of sustainable, productive gardening!