ROLE:                         Landscape Gardener/Horticulturalist

RESPONSIBLE TO:      Landscape Gardening Supervisor 

ROLE PURPOSE
To care for and develop domestic gardens to an agreed standard as part of a team of Landscape Gardeners.

KEY AREAS
This job description sets out a summary of the key features of the role.  It is not intended to be exhaustive and will be reviewed periodically to ensure it remains appropriate for the role.

The main responsibilities will include:

To provide all aspects of garden maintenance, including: 

- Weeding, pruning, splitting, re-potting, tying in and planting of trees, shrubs, perennials and bulbs and use of other horticultural skills as required

- Digging over beds, soil conditioning and mulching

- Hedge trimming, lawn mowing, strimming, edging and low level tree pruning and lopping

To competently use and perform routine maintenance of :

- Hand tools (including secateurs, loppers and other blades), petrol lawn mower, leaf blower, weed burner, hedge trimmer and strimmer – all according to Health and Safety guidelines.

To competently use pest and disease control treatments

To liaise with clients on site, updating them on the work being completed and undertaking specific tasks as requested by them, in line with seasonal plans developed in conjunction with the Landscape Gardener Supervisor

To work effectively as a team, updating the supervisor on work completed, outstanding or incomplete tasks, issues arising, materials used/required and suggestions for future garden care and development.

To assist the Design and Landscaping department from time to time with plant care, planting and other soft landscaping task as directed, under supervision.

The post holder must also undertake other duties within his/her competence or otherwise appropriate to the grading of the post as required by the Company Directors.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Qualifications & Experience
Essential
- At least 3 years’ experience in maintaining private gardens/estates in the UK, in particular managing herbaceous borders throughout the seasons including experience of pruning, cutting back, splitting and the identification and treatment of pests and diseases.
- Holds or is working towards a Level 2 RHS or equivalent qualification in Horticulture
- Full, clean and valid driving license 


Desirable
- Trailer towing qualification B+E or experience & competence in towing
 
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Essential
- Good plant identification skills and knowledge of how to care for trees, shrubs and herbaceous perennials commonly found in private gardens in the area
- Maintains a high level of physical fitness and is prepared to work outside in all weathers
- Good time management, ability to work to deadlines and be flexible to changes in plans
- Good attention to detail and able to keep working area and tools clean and tidy
- High level of interpersonal skills with the ability to maintain positive relationships with clients, colleagues and sub-contractors/third parties.
- Good written, verbal and non-verbal communication skills 
- Ability to follow instructions, learn from previous mistakes and ask for help and guidance when required 

Desirable
- A thorough understanding of relevant Health and Safety policies and procedures
- Good understanding of the concepts of GDPR and confidentiality with regards to personal data handling
 
Personal Attributes
Essential
- Patience and persistence and consistency  
- Reliability, flexibility and a willingness to ‘go the extra mile’   
- Ability to be tactful, respectful and sensitive to the needs of others   
- Emotional resilience  
- Enthusiastic with a positive and optimistic outlook and a sense of humour