Senior Gardener

We are seeking a dedicated Senior Gardener to join Oxford University Park's Department. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in maintaining and enhancing the beautiful University Parks and associated green spaces. The working week is 36.5 hours.
The University Parks Department oversees the care of the historic Parks, dating back to 1853. Joining a diverse team, you will play a key role in the development and maintenance of the parks, upholding our commitment to offering high-quality green spaces.
Responsibilities:

• Border maintenance of shrubs, herbaceous plants and seasonal bedding.


• Pruning of shrubs, climbers, and small trees.


• Care of planting, staking, training, and implementing plant protection measures.


• Lawn maintenance, including mowing and renovation.


• Landscape operations, implementing designs and planting schemes.


• General grounds maintenance, including weed control, litter removal, and cultivation.


• Leading teams on project work and routine maintenance.


• Safe operation of various vehicles and machinery.


• Taking responsibility for assigned areas of work, including, by agreement, mentoring of apprentices.

What We Offer
As an employer, we value the well-being and development of all our employees. We offer a comprehensive range of benefits, including:

• 30 days of annual leave (excluding public holidays)


• Early closure on Fridays


• Extensive personal and professional development opportunities


• Supportive childcare services for working parents and guardians


• Generous family leave for pregnancy, adoption, paternity, and shared parental leave


• Excellent contributory pension scheme for your financial future


• Salary sacrifice scheme for additional savings


• Subsidised sports centre membership to promote well-being


• Cycle loan scheme to encourage sustainable commuting


• Discounted bus and transit travel

In addition, you will have access to a vibrant community with social groups and sports clubs, fostering an inclusive atmosphere.


• Craft qualification in Horticulture (e.g., NVQ level 2, BTEC National Diploma, City & Guilds, NCH).


• Full, clean driving licence.


• Proven horticultural background.


• Good plant knowledge.


• Experience with a range of horticultural equipment.


• Flexible and adaptable approach to work.


• Interpersonal skills and the ability to lead teams and take responsibility for assigned areas.

Desirable:

• Ability to mentor apprentices


• PA1 and PA6 pesticide certification.


• Plant operator's certification (e.g., excavators, IPAF, dumpers).

Hazard-specific/Safety-critical duties: This role may involve safety-critical activities such as working at heights, lone working, and work in varying environments. Pre-employment health screening is mandatory.