Job Summary Table of Horticulture

Nurture Nature at Cambridge: Assistant Horticulturist Opportunity

Are you passionate about horticulture and dreaming of a career where you can cultivate beauty while contributing to scientific research? Look no further! Cambridge University Botanic Garden is seeking an enthusiastic Assistant Horticulturist to join our team and help maintain our world-renowned plant collections.

Job Description Summary

As an Assistant Horticulturist at Cambridge University Botanic Garden, you’ll play a crucial role in maintaining and developing our western display areas. This position offers a unique blend of hands-on horticulture and scientific support, making it perfect for those who love plants and aspire to contribute to botanical research and education.

Responsibilities

In this role, you’ll be entrusted with a variety of exciting tasks:

• Maintain and care for the Garden’s nineteenth-century western landscape and later additions, including the Systematic Beds, Stream and Bog Garden, and Mediterranean Beds.
• Assist in developing new plantings and projects, adhering to our Living Collection Strategy.
• Demonstrate expert plantsmanship to ensure our collections thrive and evolve.
• Support the Garden’s core activities in teaching, research, and public education.
• Collaborate with the Nursery team on plant propagation.
• Guide and mentor Trainee Technicians and volunteers.
• Contribute to Adult Education Courses and external group demonstrations.
• Participate in garden-wide seasonal tasks and provide cover in other sections when needed.

Horticulture Skills and Expertise Required

To excel in this role, you should possess:

• Excellent general horticultural knowledge and practical skills, especially with herbaceous plants.
• A solid understanding of basic botanical terms and strong plant identification abilities.
• Proficiency in pest and disease identification.
• Familiarity with health and safety regulations in a garden setting.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Basic IT skills, particularly with databases.
• The ability to organize time and work efficiently.

Education and Experience

We’re looking for candidates with:

• Education to GCSE level (essential).
• Relevant horticultural or vocational qualifications (desirable).
• PA1 and PA6 spraying certificates (desirable).
• Professional practical horticultural experience, preferably within a collections environment.

Benefits and Perks

Joining our team at Cambridge University Botanic Garden comes with a host of benefits:

• Competitive salary of £25,742 per annum.
• Generous annual leave package, contributing to positive wellbeing.
• Access to the University’s CAMbens employee benefits scheme, offering shopping and travel discounts.
• Opportunity to work in a world-renowned botanical garden with a rich history.
• Collaborative work environment with passionate horticulturists and researchers.
• Continuous learning and development opportunities.

Company Overview

Cambridge University Botanic Garden is a 40-acre historic garden home to an internationally important collection of over 8,000 plant species. Founded in 1846, our garden combines its role as a research and teaching facility for the University with public education and serves as an important visitor attraction in Cambridge.

Company Culture

At Cambridge University Botanic Garden, we foster a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and commitment to excellence. Our team of approximately 60-65 members across various departments works together to maintain and develop our stunning gardens while supporting crucial research and educational initiatives.

Career Growth Opportunities

This role offers excellent prospects for career advancement within the field of horticulture and botanical research. You’ll have the chance to:

• Develop expertise in rare and exotic plant species.
• Contribute to groundbreaking research projects.
• Enhance your skills through ongoing training and development programs.
• Potentially progress to senior horticultural roles within the University or broader botanical community.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

The University of Cambridge is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences, believing that diversity strengthens our team and enhances our work.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Cambridge is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic.

Remote Work Policy

This position requires on-site presence at the Cambridge University Botanic Garden. However, the University offers flexible working arrangements where possible to support work-life balance.

Application Process

1. Submit your online application via the University of Cambridge jobs page.
2. Include a detailed CV and cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and passion for horticulture.
3. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview and potentially a practical assessment.

Application Deadline

The closing date for applications is Sunday 6 October 2024. Early applications are encouraged as we may close the position once we find a suitable candidate.

How to Apply

To apply for this exciting opportunity, please visit the University of Cambridge jobs page and click “Apply online” in the job advert. You will need an email address to register for our online system.

For informal enquiries, please contact: Wendy Godfrey Email: admin@botanic.cam.ac.uk

FAQs or Additional Information

Q: Is accommodation provided?

A: While accommodation is not provided, the University Accommodation Service can assist employees in finding rental homes in Cambridge. The new University development at North West Cambridge, called Eddington, offers subsidized rented accommodation to University staff.

Q: Are there opportunities for further education?

A: Yes, the University supports ongoing education and development. Employees may apply for financial support to undertake training that will lead to a qualification, and reduced staff fees are available for University of Cambridge graduate courses.

Q: What is the working pattern?

A: The position is full-time, working 36.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday. There is a seasonal variation in working hours, and some weekend work may be required (for which additional hours are paid).

Join us at Cambridge University Botanic Garden and be part of a team dedicated to preserving and promoting botanical diversity while supporting crucial research and education. Apply now and grow your career in one of the world’s most prestigious academic environments!

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