What’s the role about?

 As a Gardener Groundskeeper at our Leckford Estate you will contribute to the effective and efficient maintenance and development of The Leckford Estate gardens and Grounds. You will undertake work to the required standards as set out by the Gardens Team Leader and Gardens & Grounds Manager.

What you’ll be doing as a Gardener Groundskeeper

• To assist with the improvement and maintenance of the Gardens, ensuring they are presented at the highest standards, which retain the gardens in their pre-eminent position within the Partnership and the horticultural world at large.

• To efficiently undertake all horticultural and maintenance tasks as requested, ensuring high levels of craftsmanship

• To maintain and use a wide range of tools and powered equipment and complete any records required.

• To ensure and promote the health and safety of yourself and others in accordance with Partnership requirements.

• To foster good working relationships with other Partners and Managers.

• To welcome and communicate with visitors to the Gardens, which can include giving talks, selling tickets and answering questions.

• To maintain current knowledge of horticultural practices and environmental considerations and apply where appropriate.

• To provide Department out of hours cover on a rota basis.

• To support and take part in Estate events as required, which will involve occasional extra hours at weekends and evenings.

Why will you love working at Leckford Estate?

Leckford is a 4,000-acre estate near Stockbridge, Hampshire. The estate was purchased in 1929 by John Spedan Lewis, founder of the John Lewis Partnership, and we have been farming it now for nearly 90 years.

We are the Waitrose Farm and our produce is supplied to Waitrose stores across the country. The estate is diverse and our commercial businesses span property, food production, farming, retail and leisure activities.

We care passionately about British farming and the environment and we practice 'The Waitrose Way' of healthy living, fair treatment, treading lightly on the environment and championing British produce.

Take a look at our interactive video to learn more about the Leckford Estate.

Click here for the video

What you’ll have

• Minimum NVQ Level 2 Amenity Horticulture or equivalent professional experience

• Minimum of 2 years of professional gardening experience with good plant knowledge.

• PA1 & Pa6a Pesticide certificate

• NPTC CS30/31 Chainsaw certificate.

• Full driving licence required