Private Estate - Surrey Hills

Kitchen Gardener wanted for a private family estate in Surrey/Sussex border. We are looking for a hard-working, enthusiastic individual to join our team of gardeners. A suitable applicant must have a proven track record of successfully growing excellent high quality produce to excite and thrill our client. We are looking for someone with substantial experience of the growing of herbs and vegetables, consistently producing fruit and cut flowers. The candidate should be familiar with the planning and organising of a Kitchen Garden, Glasshouse and Orchard. You should have experience of seed propagation, knowledge of pest and disease control methods and the practices of crop rotation and successional planting. You will also need to work as part of the team in maintaining exceptional standards in the wider garden. You must be comfortable in supporting the Head Gardener in leading the team in their absence as and when needed. You will be working as part of a team of gardeners supporting their work in maintaining a diverse garden including herbaceous borders, a rose garden, formal lawn areas, an arboretum, ponds, meadows and a woodland garden. You must thrive in having individual responsibility for your own designated production garden areas. A suitable applicant will be able to show; Comprehensive plant knowledge, a keen interest in gardens, familiarity with most gardening practices. Candidates should have proven practical experience and a suitable horticultural qualification in gardens maintenance (such as NVQ level 2, RHS level 2). Good verbal communication skills, good organisational skills and a good understanding of Health and Safety issues. Good work ethic - trustworthy, honest, reliable, punctual, hardworking and able to work in all types of weather You will need to be w ell motivated with a sharp eye for detail and a desire to achieve a high standards, ability to work on own initiative. This is an exciting opportunity to join a motivated and dedicated team. The role will involve working individually however a willingness to work alongside and to support other staff is essential. Working hours will typically be Monday to Friday, 8am-4.30pm. As the gardens are not easily reached by public transport and tractor use is part of the role a full UK driver's license and your own transport is required. Benefits: All tools provided Any training or courses paid for Competitive Salary 20 Days per annum Holiday (plus bank holidays) paid Private medical insurance Pension scheme Apply by CV and cover letter to Fiona Lawrenson by email (recommended band £32,500 - £37,500 )