Horticultural Production Operative

Hillier Tree Nursery, a prestigious family business with over 150 years of history in the arboriculture industry, is looking for a dedicated Arboriculture Production Operative to join our team in Liss, Hampshire.

At Hillier, we pride ourselves on our heritage and commitment to excellence. As part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to contribute to our legacy and grow your career in a supportive and nurturing environment.

The role involves all duties connected to the production and delivery of specimen trees. We are looking for an individual who is an excellent team player with strong organisational and communication skills, a willingness to learn, and a positive work ethic. The successful candidate will be self motivated, reliable, and able to demonstrate initiative and flexibility, while working confidently as part of a team.

The role requires working outdoors in all weather conditions, so a genuine enjoyment of outdoor work is essential (PPE will be provided). While previous experience in a similar role would be beneficial, full training will be provided for the right candidate. The physical nature of the role means the post holder must be comfortable with manual handling, lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods.

In addition to recruiting for this position, we will also consider applications from individuals wishing to join us as an apprentice, working in partnership with the college to provide a structured training and development pathway. This offers an excellent opportunity for those looking to begin a career in arboriculture while gaining hands on experience within a leading nursery.

There will also be a requirement to work overtime during peak seasonal periods, for which enhanced rates of pay will apply. This ensures we can meet production demands while recognising and rewarding the additional commitment required at busy times.

This role is offered on a full time, permanent basis of 39 hours per week, Monday to Friday (7.30am to 4.00pm Monday to Thursday and 7.30am to 3.00pm on Friday).

We offer:

• Rate based on experience
• Comprehensive training on all stages of the tree growing process
• Potential sponsorship for college (Level 3 Crop Technician)
• Opportunity to work overtime at enhanced rates during peak season
• 31 days annual leave
• 20% employee discount in our Garden Centres
• Enhanced Employee Assistance Programme for both you and your immediate family, including free counselling on health, financial, legal, and personal/family matters.
• Retail discounts and offers.
• Company Christmas gifts (eligibility based on start date with Company)
• Free access to exclusive retail discounts, deals and coupons, plus extra cashback on your Amazon and food shop
• Free entry to the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey and deals at other gardens nationally

Key responsibilities:

• Preparing trees for dispatch
• Operating agricultural vehicles and equipment
• Planting and transplanting stock
• Moving large trees
• Working outside in all weathers
• Loading/unloading trees
• Tying trees
• Formative pruning and shaping
• Irrigation system inspection
• Maintaining good environmental standard
• Maintaining good standards of health and safety

Please note that we will only consider candidates who are already located in the UK and have right to work status.

We are an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, or age.