Job Description

Head Gardener

Location:

The Walled Garden Helen's Bay, County Down, Northern Ireland

Job Type:

Full-time (part-time considered for the right candidate)

Salary:

Competitive, depending on experience

About the Role

The Walled Garden, Helen's Bay, is seeking a skilled and passionate Head Gardener to lead the restoration and ongoing care of its 1.5-acre Victorian garden. Currently under regeneration alongside the neighbouring Old Mill House, this historic site is being transformed into a beautiful, sustainable space celebrating heritage, horticulture, and wellbeing.

This role is ideal for someone with both practical experience and creative vision -- a gardener who takes pride in high standards, values sustainability, and enjoys working in a setting that blends tradition and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the restoration and day-to-day management of the Walled Garden. Cultivate fruit, vegetables, flowers, and herbs for use in on-site events and dining. Manage planting schedules, seasonal harvests, and Glasshouse production. Supervise and support a small team of gardeners and volunteers. Maintain glasshouses, paths, composting, and irrigation systems. Champion sustainable, organic, and wildlife-friendly practices. Assist with tours and workshops that engage visitors with the garden's heritage and purpose.
About You

Professional horticultural qualification (e.g., RHS Level 2/3 or equivalent) or relevant hands-on experience. Strong plant knowledge across both productive and ornamental species. Skilled in propagation, pruning, and garden planning. Experience working in or managing a heritage, estate, or ornamental garden. Organised, self-motivated, and confident leading a small team. Physically fit and able to work outdoors in all weathers.
What We Offer

The opportunity to help shape the next chapter of a historic Victorian Walled Garden. Creative input into planting design and garden development. Supportive, collaborative working environment. Opportunities for professional growth and training. Competitive salary based on experience. Full-time role (approx. 40 hours per week) -- part-time arrangements considered for the right candidate.
Schedule

Monday to Friday (occasional weekend or evening work for events or seasonal needs).
How to Apply

If you have a strong horticultural background, an eye for detail, and a genuine respect for heritage gardens, we'd be delighted to hear from you.
Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your experience and why you're interested in this role.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Benefits:

Free parking On-site parking
Work Location: In person