Soft Landscaper

P J Chaffin Limited; Polegate; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Chaffin Works is seeking an experienced Soft Landscaper to join our landscaping team, delivering high-quality soft landscaping across commercial, construction and infrastructure projects. You will read drawings, prepare soils, plant, turf and maintain areas while following RAMS and site rules.

Essential qualifications include RHS horticultural Level 2+, CSCS Green Labourer Card, and practical experience in commercial soft landscaping.

Qualifications

• A recognised RHS horticultural qualification or equivalent.
• Valid CSCS Green Labourer Card or higher.
• Strong practical horticultural knowledge and correct planting techniques.
• Experience in commercial soft landscaping and ability to read landscape plans.
• Ability to work safely outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Plant trees, shrubs, hedging and other soft landscape material.
• Prepare soils and planting areas through cultivation and soil improvements.
• Lay turf and final preparation of landscaped areas.
• Apply mulch, compost and soil conditioners as specified.
• Water, establish, prune and weed plantings; ensure site presentation.

Skills

Horticultural knowledge

Plant identification

Reading landscape plans

Planting techniques

Health & safety

Driving licence

Education

RHS horticultural qualification (Level 2+)

CSCS Green Labourer Card

PA1/PA6 pesticide qualifications

Emergency First Aid at Work

Tools

Excavator ticket

Dumper ticket

Telehandler ticket

Job description

Chaffin Works is seeking an experienced Soft Landscaper with strong practical horticultural knowledge to join our landscaping team. The role involves delivering high-quality soft landscaping works across commercial, construction and infrastructure projects, safely and in accordance with drawings, specifications and programme requirements.

Key responsibilities

• Plant trees, shrubs, hedging, whips, herbaceous plants and other soft landscape material.
• Prepare soils and planting areas through cultivation, grading, amelioration and appropriate soil improvement.
• Lay turf, undertake grass seeding and complete final preparation of landscaped areas.
• Apply mulch, compost, fertiliser and soil conditioners in accordance with the specification.
• Complete watering, establishment maintenance, pruning, formative pruning, weeding and general plant care.
• Identify common plant species and understand their establishment and ongoing maintenance requirements.
• Read and work accurately from landscape drawings, planting plans, schedules and specifications.
• Check plant quality, planting depth, spacing, finished levels, staking, tying and protection measures.
• Use hand tools, power tools and landscaping equipment safely and correctly.
• Maintain a high standard of workmanship, productivity, housekeeping and site presentation.
• Follow approved RAMS, site rules, environmental controls and all health and safety requirements.
• Report damaged plants, defects, specification issues and site constraints to the Site Supervisor promptly.

Essential qualifications, knowledge and experience

• A recognised RHS horticultural qualification, preferably RHS Level 2 or above, or an equivalent recognised horticultural qualification.
• Valid CSCS Green Labourer Card or a higher relevant CSCS card.
• Strong practical horticultural knowledge, including plant identification and correct planting techniques.
• Previous practical experience in commercial soft landscaping, landscape construction or grounds maintenance.
• Good knowledge of soil preparation, planting, turfing, seeding, watering and plant-establishment requirements.
• Ability to read planting plans and follow landscape specifications accurately.
• A sound understanding of workplace health, safety and environmental requirements.
• Ability to complete physically demanding outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
• Reliable, punctual and able to work effectively both independently and as part of a site team.
• Full UK driving licence.

Desirable qualifications and experience

• PA1 and PA6 pesticide application qualifications.
• Relevant plant or machinery tickets, including excavator, dumper or telehandler.
• Emergency First Aid at Work.
• Manual Handling and CAT & Genny training.
• Experience working on highways, construction sites or large commercial landscaping projects.
• Experience supervising or supporting a small landscaping team.
• Pride in producing high-quality landscaping work.
• A practical, proactive and solution-focused approach.
• Good communication and the confidence to raise concerns before they affect quality or safety.
• Respectful and professional behaviour when working with colleagues, clients and other contractors.
• Willingness to learn, develop and support the wider team.

Our company prioritises a supportive and developmental culture where we nurture the growth of each individual.

Become a part of our dedicated team, making a positive impact on the environment and our communities.

We believe that our team is the heart of our success, and we are committed to providing a work environment where everyone can thrive.