Head Gardener

Location: Buckinghamshire
Days: To Be Discussed
Hours: To Be Discussed
Start Date: ASAP
Salary: Competitive, DOE

Position Overview

A private family based in Buckinghamshire are seeking an experienced, practical, and proactive Head Gardener / Estate Assistant to establish and maintain the grounds of their newly completed family home, set within approximately 22 acres.

A comprehensive landscape design has already been prepared, and the successful candidate will take ownership of implementing and maintaining the scheme over time. This is a varied, hands on role for someone who enjoys creating beautiful surroundings, takes pride in their work, and is looking for a long term position within a private estate environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Implementing and maintaining an existing landscape design
• Establishing and caring for meadows and wildflower areas
• Planting and maintaining trees, hedging, shrubs, and herbaceous borders
• Managing woodland paths and undertaking light woodland clearance
• Caring for planters and seasonal displays
• Mowing, strimming, edging, and leaf clearance
• Monitoring irrigation and watering systems
• Maintaining terraces, courtyards, and hard landscaped areas
• Ensuring the grounds are beautifully presented throughout the year
• Carrying out general handyman duties and minor repairs
• Pressure washing and caring for outdoor furniture
• Undertaking basic decorating and touch up work as required
• Conducting routine checks of gates, lighting, and outbuildings
• Maintaining and servicing tools and garden machinery
• Managing waste and recycling across the estate
• Liaising with and overseeing specialist contractors when required
• Arranging and monitoring tree work and machinery hire
• Receiving deliveries and ensuring works are completed to a high standard
• Identifying opportunities for improvements across the estate
• Ensuring the property remains tidy, well maintained, and guest ready at all times

Candidate Requirements

• Proven gardening experience within a private household, country estate, or similar environment
• Strong horticultural knowledge and practical gardening skills
• Good all round handyman abilities
• Proactive, organised, and self motivated
• Comfortable working independently and taking ownership of the role
• Friendly, reliable, and discreet
• Excellent attention to detail and pride in maintaining high standards
• Full UK driving licence essential

Desirable Qualifications

• PA1/PA6 spraying certificates
• Chainsaw and/or brushcutter certification
• Experience maintaining large private gardens, country houses, or estates
• Familiarity with irrigation systems and a wide range of garden machinery

Additional Information

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Gardener who enjoys developing and maintaining beautiful grounds while becoming a valued, long term member of a private household team. The family is seeking someone who will take genuine ownership of the estate and help it flourish for years to come.