Grounds & Gardens Technician

## Discover a Rewarding Career in Horticulture at The Odney Club

Are you a passionate horticulturalist seeking an opportunity to shape and maintain a truly exceptional estate? This permanent role as part of the Grounds and Gardens team at The Odney Club, a beautiful John Lewis and Partners hotel, offers a unique chance to contribute to a stunning 95-acre property by the River Thames.

This is more than just a gardening job; it's a chance to be part of a team dedicated to developing and preserving a picturesque landscape that includes expansive grounds, manicured gardens, sports facilities, tranquil lakes, play areas, and natural woodland. Your expertise will be instrumental in maintaining the highest standards, directly enhancing the hotel's reputation and ensuring an unparalleled guest experience.

Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• A Picturesque and Inspiring Work Environment: Imagine spending your days surrounded by the natural beauty and charm of The Odney Club, a Grade II listed building set within a vast and diverse estate. This is an ideal setting for those who thrive outdoors and appreciate the finer details of landscape management.
• Career Development and Growth: As part of the John Lewis Partnership, you’ll be joining a forward-thinking organization that values its people. There are opportunities to develop your horticultural skills, expand your knowledge of plant varieties, pests, and soil management, and potentially gain experience in specialized areas.
• Competitive Compensation and Benefits: The role offers a salary range of £26,200 - £36,000, commensurate with your experience. Additionally, for those times when work extends into the early hours, a Night Premium of £4.00 per hour is applied to shifts worked between 22:00 and 06:00, acknowledging the dedication required for out-of-hours cover.
• Unique Ownership Culture: As a Partner in the John Lewis Partnership, you are not just an employee but a co-owner. This fosters a strong sense of belonging, shared responsibility, and a direct stake in the success and rewards of the business.
• Support for Work-Life Balance: The Partnership is committed to supporting its Partners' well-being, with a willingness to discuss flexible working arrangements where possible.
• Opportunity for Skill Enhancement: While NVQ Level 2 Amenity Horticulture or equivalent experience is essential, the job description lists several desirable certifications, such as chainsaw use, pesticide application, and horticultural design, offering a clear path for professional development.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Demonstrated Horticultural Competency: A strong foundation in horticulture is paramount. Candidates should be prepared to showcase their proven ability in plant care, propagation, pest and disease management, and soil science. A minimum of 2 years of professional gardening experience is a must.
• Machinery Operation and Maintenance: Proficiency in operating and maintaining a range of grounds and garden machinery is essential. This includes an understanding of safety procedures and record-keeping related to equipment use.
• Commitment to High Standards: The role demands a dedication to excellence. You will be responsible for maintaining the grounds to an exceptionally high standard, contributing to the estate's esteemed reputation.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: While the core working hours are Monday to Friday, the nature of estate management often requires flexibility. This includes participating in a rota for out-of-hours cover and occasional weekend or evening work to support estate events.
• Proactive Communication and Guest Engagement: You’ll be interacting with visitors to the gardens, potentially giving talks and answering questions. Strong communication skills and a welcoming demeanor are crucial.
• Safety and Compliance: A commitment to health and safety for yourself and others, in line with Partnership requirements, is a non-negotiable aspect of the role.
• Pre-Employment Vetting: Be aware that successful candidates will undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and a financial probity check. This is a standard procedure for roles requiring a high level of trust and responsibility.

This role presents a fantastic opportunity for individuals with a genuine passion for horticulture and a desire to contribute to a beautiful and prestigious environment. If you are a skilled grounds and garden professional looking for a stable, rewarding career within an employee-owned business that values its people, we encourage you to explore this exciting prospect.