Gardener

Full-time Permanent Position Available

We’re seeking a full-time experienced gardener to join our friendly and competent team.

Parham has a reputation as a notable British garden and it has been on a recent upward trajectory, receiving national press attention for its innovative planting style. The garden has been featured on BBC Gardeners’ World, and its Gold Border was celebrated in the June 2020 issue of the ‘English Garden’ magazine.

The new recruit will be encouraged to develop their horticultural interests and skills and will play a key role in realising a shared vision to make Parham a destination for discerning garden visitors.

About Parham Garden

The garden sits within an 800-acre deer park that includes veteran trees and rare species of wildlife. The South Downs provide a magnificent backdrop to a four-acre walled garden that encloses creative herbaceous borders, high-production vegetable and cut flower beds, nuttery, orchard, wall-trained fruit and climbers, and a large historic glasshouse. The gardeners also tend a seven-acre, 18th century pleasure ground that surrounds the walled garden. Additionally, there is a specialist nursery on site managed by the garden team, giving the right candidate an opportunity to exercise a wide range of horticultural skills.

Gardener Candidate Specifications

We’re looking for an energetic, self-motivated, and efficient gardener who is comfortable working to a high horticultural standard both independently and within a team. Candidates should ideally hold at least a RHS Level II horticultural qualification (or equivalent), have good plant knowledge, and paid experience in a professional garden. However, a demonstrable passion for gardening, a positive attitude and willingness to learn are also important. Experience with garden machinery such as tractors, trailers, hedge cutters, mowers and chainsaws is valuable.

Parham House & Gardens is open to the public four days a week from Easter to October, and the gardeners act as ambassadors for the estate through their interaction with visitors and help with gardening workshops, events, and tours.

Working hours & how to apply

During the open season, gardeners work weekend cover on a rota system, occasional bank holidays, and infrequent special events. Candidates should be aware of the physical nature of the position, and of the requirement to work in all weather conditions. Paid holidays are 28 per year, inclusive of bank holidays. Salary: circa £22,000 per annum depending on experience and qualifications.

HOW TO APPLY: Please send your CV and a covering letter to Erika Packard, Head Gardener, at headgardener@parhaminsussex.co.uk

CLOSING DATE: August 24, 2020. Applications will be reviewed as they are received.

Parham supports the goal of increased diversity in horticulture and is committed to building a garden team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills.

For more information about Parham House & Gardens, please click here