Arborist

We’ve got an exciting opportunity for an Arborist to join our team at Winkworth Arboretum.

If you want a career in Arboriculture/Gardening, we can offer you some of the most beautiful outdoor spaces in the UK to work in as well as one of the largest plant collections in Europe.

Internally you’ll be known as ‘Gardener'.

Interviews will be held on the 6th of June.

The salary for this role is £25,500 - £26,500 per annum, dependant on experience. 

Winkworth is the Trust's only Arboretum. Set in 120 acres on the outskirts of Godalming, it is packed with interesting and iconic tree species including 50 Champion trees.

No two days are the same as there are a few different areas such as Magnolia Wood, Ancient Woodland, Lake, Wetlands, The Bowl and a Wildflower meadow that all require expert care and attention.

Reporting to the Senior Gardener, this role is targeted towards a qualified Arborist who will assist in operations on site but also across the portfolio when required. You’ll work alongside another Arborist and several volunteers.

Click here to learn more about this location.

As a hands-on Arborist/Gardener, you’ll assist in making sure that the arboretum is maintained to a high standard. You’ll be passionate and enthused and knowledgeable about the varied trees and plants within the garden. 

You’ll be undertaking a range of practical arboricultural and horticultural tasks to develop, enhance and conserve the garden and contribute to the delivery of projects. 

You'll be helping with general maintenance of the arboretum, such as mulching, pruning, strimming  and mowing. 

You’ll assist with the planting and maintenance of trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants. You’ll also take ownership of specific areas of the arboretum, ensuring the highest standards are maintained and healthy plants are available for our visitors to enjoy.

You’ll support garden volunteers and help them to make the most of their time here and you’ll interact with the public daily, answering questions, or supporting with workshops, tours and helping set up events when needed.

Please also read the full role profile attached to this advert.

We’d love to hear from you, if this sounds like you:

• trained as an arborist or holds level 2 Arboricultural qualifications. 
• good knowledge of conservation.
• knowledge of horticulture methods and materials, landscaping, cultivation of trees and woody plants, machine maintenance, plant taxonomy and insect/disease control.
• ability to identify and deal with hazardous and problem trees. 
• records maintenance skills.
• competence with ride on machinery, tractors, pedestrian mowers and hand tools. 
• a strong understanding of horticultural practices, 
• an awareness of Health and Safety and Compliance requirements.

The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.

• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary

• Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)

• Tax-free childcare scheme

• Rental deposit loan scheme

• Season ticket loan

• Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts

• Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.

• Flexible working whenever possible

• Employee assistance programme

• Free parking at most Trust places

• Independent financial advice

Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.