Gardener &
Groundsman

The Role

Role Overview

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Gardener/Groundsman to maintain and care for the gardens, grounds, and estate of Honiley Hall, working to a long-established plan and routine.

This is a full-time, permanent role. The position of Gardener/Groundsman at a private household and estate is one of considerable diversity. It requires a candidate with a genuine passion for gardening, who is content to work independently, has an eye for detail, and a strong work ethic.

The duties include, but are not limited to, those set out below.

Remuneration & Conditions

Package Details

Salary	£27,500 during the 6-month probationary period, rising to £29,000 on successful completion
Working Hours	8:00am – 4:30pm (half-hour lunch), five days a week
Working Pattern	Five days a week, some Sundays
Holiday Entitlement	28 days per annum (inclusive of Bank Holidays)
Pension	Pension scheme available
Probation	6 months

Core Duties

Grounds and Gardens

Maintain the overall grounds, lawns, driveways, and pathways to a high standard, including:

• Grass cutting to an agreed standard and schedule, using professional equipment
• Grass strimming and edging
• Shrubbery maintenance as needed
• General lawn care treatments
• Keeping all areas clear of leaf falls, bracken, litter, weeds, grass cuttings, moss, and all other debris

Equipment Operation and Maintenance

Operate and maintain various professional standard gardening equipment, including:

• Jacobson T-Plex Triple Deck Mower — fine lawns
• Toro CT2240 Commercial Triple Deck Ride-on Mower — pasture and large areas
• Cub Cadet Ride-on Mower
• Ransomes Pedestrian Mower
• Sisis Pedestrian Scarifier
• Various other mowers
• Professional strimming and edging equipment

The post holder is also expected to:

• Maintain equipment where they have the requisite skills
• Clean down all equipment at the end of each day or week ready for next shift
• Refuel equipment ready for next use

Additional Duties

Property and Estate Duties

In addition to the core gardening role, the post holder will be expected to carry out a range of property and estate duties, on a periodic as needed basis including:

• Clearing of all drains and guttering around the property
• Clearing of cobwebs around the property (main gates, side gate, etc.)
• Wiping down of external paintwork on doors and door frames, when required
• Changing light bulbs
• Cleaning and laying the fire during the winter months, as and when required
• Maintaining sufficient levels of fuel (wood, coal, etc.)
• Tackling various rudimentary handyman tasks as required
• Removal of dust bins and rubbish to the collection point and return thereof on appointed days

Animal Care

Animal Care

The care of household pets is part of the role. This currently includes:

• Feeding and watering the Airedale Terriers
• Letting the dogs out and walking as required
• Cleaning their kennels

General Duties

Household and General Duties

From time to time, the post holder may be asked to assist with general household and estate matters, including:

• Assisting with matters in the household, where required
• Running errands to the local villages
• Collecting visitors and or house guests from railway stations, etc.
• Cleaning vehicles, both inside and out, when requested
• All other usual tasks and errands that are in common with the position

What We Are Looking For

Person Specification

The ideal candidate will:

• Have demonstrable experience in gardening and grounds maintenance
• Be competent in the operation and maintenance of professional gardening equipment
• Be content to work alone with minimal supervision
• Demonstrate a high degree of attention to detail
• Have a strong, reliable work ethic
• Be comfortable around large dogs and willing to assist with their care
• Be willing to undertake a range of duties beyond core gardening where reasonably required
• Hold a (preferably clean) full, driving licence (Essential)
• Must have own transport due to the remote location not being on a public transport route

The successful applicant will be expected to consistently showcase their expertise during the probationary period and beyond, ensuring the grounds of Honiley Hall continue to captivate and inspire all who visit.

If you believe you have the necessary skills and experience to excel in this role, we look forward to reviewing your application.