Botanical Horticulturist (Garden)

About the Role

Oxford Botanic Garden is the UK’s oldest botanic garden and occupies a world-class position in terms of its history and academic location. Founded in 1621 the Garden is committed to educating people about the importance of plants, to help conserve plants from around the world, and to conduct and support teaching and research within the University and beyond. 

We are seeking a qualified horticulturist to cultivate, maintain and develop the collection of plants grown within the outdoor areas of the Botanic Garden. You will contribute to the planning and development of the work of the collection, working closely with the Horticultural Supervisor and the Curator and Head of Horticulture to achieve high horticultural standards. You will participate in the day-to-day cultivation of the collection. In addition to the horticultural duties, you will support public education activities and work closely with trainees and volunteers. This post offers a unique opportunity to join a small, enthusiastic team in a busy and vibrant department. 

About You

You will have a Level 3 or equivalent horticultural qualification, or demonstrable evidence of equivalent experience, along with extensive experience of the use and maintenance of a wide range of garden machinery and equipment. You will have a solid understanding of plant collections relevant to those held at Oxford Botanic Garden, and be able to demonstrate safe working practices in the use of tools, machinery, and pesticides (NPTC Pa1 and Pa6). 

It would be advantageous if you have experience working in a public or heritage garden and have developed a specialist interest in a particular taxonomic or geographic group of plants. You will be collaborative, reliable, and able to work effectively as part of a small team that values precision and horticultural excellence. 

Diversity

Our staff and students come from all over the world, and we proudly promote a friendly and inclusive culture. Diversity is positively encouraged, through diverse groups and champions, as well as a number of family-friendly policies, such as the right to apply for flexible working and support for staff returning from periods of extended absence, for example shared parental leave. 

We are committed to ensuring that our recruitment processes are inclusive and accessible. If you require the job description or any other materials in an alternative format, or if you would like to request any adjustments to support you through the application or interview process, please contact the recruitment team at recruitment@glam.ox.ac.uk. 

How to Apply

You will be required to upload your CV and a supporting evidence form using the attached template as part of your online application. Your supporting evidence form should list each of the essential and desirable selection criteria, as listed in the job description, and explain how you meet each one. CVs alone will not be considered. 

We aim to provide a supportive working environment and are happy to discuss training and professional development opportunities. The Chair of this recruitment panel will be Cat Warsi, who can be contacted with enquiries relating to the role (recruitment@obg.ox.ac.uk). General queries about the recruitment and application process should be directed to the Recruitment team within our Human Resources department (recruitment@glam.ox.ac.uk). 

Only applications received online by 12.00 midday (GMT) on Wednesday 26 November 2025 can be considered.

Interviews are expected to take place during the week commencing 12 January 2026.

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