Horticulturist

Horticulturist (3 vacancies)

Roles: 1 x Nursery, 2 x Outdoor Living Collection

Contract type:
Fixed-term opportunity of up to 6 months. Contract length will vary depending on the successful candidate's start date, with all contracts ending by 31 March 2027.

Working hours:

Full-time (35 hours per week)

Location:

Edinburgh (onsite)

Salary: £27,366

To deliver high-quality horticultural work in support of the Biomes programme, contributing to the relocation, establishment and care of nationally important living plant collections. Working as part of a collaborative team, these roles help protect and enhance the garden's landscapes and collections.

• Support the relocation and re-establishment of trees, shrubs and other plant collections from areas undergoing development.
• Assist with the careful dismantling and preparation of existing landscaped areas to support redevelopment and improvement projects.
• Carry out turf repairs and reinstatement works, including turf laying, edging, seeding and aftercare.
• Relocate nursery stock, irrigation systems and plant support structures, ensuring assets are protected and maintained throughout the process.
• Assist with the safe relocation and organisation of potted plant collections.
• Carefully dismantle, store and prepare glasshouse benches, growing units and related equipment for reuse, supporting sustainable working practices.
• Maintain and organise storage and yard areas to ensure horticultural materials, equipment and supplies are managed safely and efficiently.
• Support effective waste management practices, including recycling and the responsible disposal of horticultural materials.
• Undertake a variety of routine horticultural maintenance activities, including weeding, hoeing, digging, mulching and seasonal clearance works.
• Maintain herbaceous plantings through activities such as division, pruning and cutting back, helping to enhance the quality and diversity of the garden.
• Plant and transplant trees, shrubs, herbaceous plants and bulbs, providing appropriate aftercare including staking, watering, mulching and deadheading.
• Carry out pruning and training of trees, shrubs, climbers and wall-trained plants in line with horticultural best practice.
• Maintain formal and informal hedges to a high standard, contributing to the overall appearance and health of the landscape.
• Safely operate and maintain horticultural machinery and equipment, including mowers, strimmers and leaf blowers, ensuring tools are clean, serviceable and fit for purpose.
• Assist with the removal and processing of larger tree material, including stumps, branches and the operation of wood chipping equipment where appropriately trained.
• Identify and remove diseased plant material in accordance with biosecurity procedures and garden management practices.
• Act as a welcoming and knowledgeable ambassador for the garden, engaging positively with visitors and responding helpfully to questions where appropriate.
• Protect and safeguard the living collections during all horticultural, maintenance and development activities.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues and undertake any other reasonable duties that support the effective operation of the garden, commensurate with the responsibilities of the role.

• Demonstrates a commitment to delivering work to a high standard, with attention to detail and quality.
• Works effectively as part of a team, taking guidance when needed.
• Experience of carrying out routine garden and grounds maintenance activities.
• Knowledge of, or willingness to develop skills in, plant propagation techniques.
• Understanding of plant health, including the identification and management of common pests, diseases and plant care requirements.

Shows initiative, motivation and the ability to manage and prioritise a variety of tasks independently.

Interest in, and enthusiasm for, herbaceous plants, shrubs and horticulture more broadly.

At least two years' practical horticultural experience, or equivalent relevant experience.

• A horticultural qualification, or equivalent relevant training.
• Comfortable using digital tools and systems, with the ability to learn new software and applications as required.
• PA1/PA6 pesticide application certification.
• A full, valid driving licence.