Head Gardener
37 hours per week, 52 weeks per year
(there is a requirement to work on a shift pattern that will include some weekend and bank holidays)
Up to £20,205 per annum
This is an exciting opportunity to work at Suffolk New College at the Suffolk Rural campus as the Head Gardener. You will be required to oversee all horticultural aspects of the grounds, gardens and manage the volunteer team. You must have the ability to plan garden programmes on a seasonal basis, as well as developing longer term improvement and maintenance plans. Confidence with the operation of machinery/equipment and maintenance including hedge trimmers, leaf blowers, strimmers, mowers and a tractor and trailer. In addition, PA1 and PA6a spraying certificates and a chainsaw licence would be an advantage, but not essential (training can be provided).
We are looking for a professional gardener with a proactive nature to drive forward our beautiful rural campus. An excellent knowledge of Health and Safety and compliance is required.
This role will support the development of a commercial provision onsite to provide for the local community. The Head Gardener will work closely with the Horticulture Centre Manger to build up a local customer base, marketing information and maintain the facilities.
You will need to have an organised and methodical approach to ensure the smooth operations of the workspaces in order to support the delivery of an exceptional student experience. You will be able to communicate and engage with a range of audiences including young people and will work well both in a team and on your own initiative.
You should have a good standard of education including Maths and English at level 2 (GCSE 4/C) and a Level 2 qualification in a relevant subject e.g. RHS qualification. You should also have relevant horticultural and industry expertise, including knowledge and experience of plant science, plant propagation techniques and of budding and grafting.
This post is based at Suffolk New College Suffolk Rural, however Suffolk New College is a multi campus site therefore you may be required to work at and travel between campuses.