Role Overview:
We are seeking a knowledgeable and proactive Kitchen Gardener to support the day-to-day operation of our newly developed Kitchen Garden. This role will focus on the cultivation and care of high-quality fruit, vegetables, herbs, and indoor/tender plants, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh produce to our Head Chef while maintaining the highest standards within our glasshouses and polytunnels.
The ideal candidate will have strong horticultural knowledge, a hands-on approach, and a passion for sustainable gardening practices.
Key Responsibilities:
- Carry out daily operations within the Kitchen Garden, ensuring all tasks are completed to a high standard.
- Grow, cultivate, and maintain a wide range of fruit, vegetables, herbs, and seasonal crops.
- Maintain indoor and tender plants to a high standard, including those within glasshouses and polytunnels.
- Assist with planning and managing seasonal growing schedules to support the culinary requirements of the estate.
- Monitor crops for pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies, applying appropriate treatments in line with organic practices where possible.
- Prepare beds, sow seeds, plant, harvest, and maintain growing areas throughout the year.
- Ensure all gardening tools, vehicles, and machinery are maintained and used safely.
- Work collaboratively with the Head Gardener and Estate team to uphold Stoke Park's 5-star service standards.
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness, organisation, and presentation throughout the Kitchen Garden areas.
Essential Skills & Qualifications:
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a hotel or similar high-standard estate environment.
- Extensive knowledge of fruit, vegetable, and indoor plant cultivation.
- Experience with organic gardening practices.
- PA1/PA6 spraying certificates.
- Full UK driving license (ability to drive a large van and tow a trailer).
- Strong organisational and communication skills.
- High levels of discretion, professionalism, and initiative.
Job Type: Fixed term contract
Pay: Up to £30,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- On-site parking
Application question(s):
- Do you have a full UK driving license?
Experience:
- Kitchen Garden: 2 years (required)
Licence/Certification:
- Driving Licence (required)
- PA1 Pesticide Certificate (preferred)
- PA6 Spraying Licence (preferred)
Work Location: In person
