Head Gardener
Employment Type
Job (Full-time)Job Categories
Horticulture
Job Description
We are seeking a passionate, creative, and experienced Head Gardener to lead the development, maintenance, and enhancement of Elm Court’s gardens. The successful candidate will have extensive knowledge of plant care, garden maintenance, and sustainable horticultural practices. While expertise in landscape design would be a plus, we plan to work with professional designers for garden planning, with the Head Gardener implementing and maintaining these designs. Additionally, the Head Gardener will collaborate with the Foundation to host workshops or seminars for not-for-profit groups to promote education and outreach in line with our mission. This role requires a blend of horticultural expertise, leadership, and educational vision to ensure Elm Court’s gardens remain a cherished resource for visitors and the wider community.
About Us
Elm Court is a historic estate and part of our Foundation’s mission to preserve, enhance, and share the beauty and heritage of stately homes. Our vision includes creating exceptional gardens that serve as a source of inspiration and education, fostering appreciation for horticulture, historic preservation, and sustainable gardening practices.
Duties & Responsibilities
1. Garden Design & Maintenance
• Oversee the cultivation, pruning, planting, and maintenance of trees, shrubs, flowers, and lawns to the highest standards.
• Manage seasonal gardening tasks,
• Implement garden plans designed by professional landscape designers, ensuring adherence to the estate’s historic character and sustainability goals.
• Develop and implement long-term plans for garden improvement and preservation.
2. Leadership & Team Management
• Supervise, mentor, and manage a team of gardening staff and interns, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
• Provide training to staff in horticultural best practices and innovative techniques.
• Ensure all gardening activities comply with health and safety regulations.
3. Education & Public Engagement
• Collaborate with the Foundation to host workshops or seminars for not-for-profit groups, such as garden clubs or horticultural students.
• Work with existing partnerships, such as Bidwell horticulture classes
• Share insights and expertise on Elm Court’s gardens through educational materials and guided tours for approved groups.
4. Sustainability & Innovation
• Integrate sustainable practices, such as composting, water conservation, and organic gardening techniques.
• Identify opportunities to enhance biodiversity, such as introducing pollinator-friendly plants and creating wildlife habitats.
5. Budget & Resource Management
• Manage the garden’s annual budget, ensuring cost-effective procurement of materials and tools.
• Maintain records of plantings, maintenance schedules, and projects.
• Liaise with external contractors and suppliers as needed.
Education and Experience
• Proven experience as a Head Gardener or in a senior horticultural role, ideally in a historic estate, botanic garden, or similar setting.
• Expertise in garden design, plant care, and sustainable horticultural practices.
• Knowledge of the principles of historic garden restoration and preservation.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience supervising staff and volunteers.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage and inspire diverse audiences.
• Experience in planning and delivering educational workshops or seminars.
• A relevant qualification in horticulture, landscape design, or a related field
• Proficiency in using garden planning software and basic IT tools.
DESIRABLE SKILLS
• Familiarity with the flora and climate of Pennsylvania or similar regions.
• Experience working with non-profit organizations or foundations.
• An appreciation for historic properties and the interplay between architecture and landscape.
• A creative approach to integrating modern and traditional gardening techniques.
• Landscape design experience (preferred but not required).
Additional Information
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Housing may be provided on the estate if required.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• The chance to work in a unique and inspiring environment with a rich heritage.
Application Instructions
Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume, a cover letter detailing their experience and vision for the role, and examples of past garden projects (if available) to: sb@elm-court.org
Application Deadline:April 1, 2025