Senior Gardener

Are you a skilled and passionate horticulturist ready to take the lead on projects and mentor the next generation of green space professionals? Oxford University Parks is seeking an experienced horticultural professional to join the team as a Senior Gardener. 

Location: South Lodge, South Parks Road, Oxford

About Us  

Spanning the historic streets of the “city of dreaming spires”, the University of Oxford has been ranked the world’s leading university for ten consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world-changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Apply now to become part of our extraordinary legacy. 

University Parks plays a central role in maintaining the University's extensive green estate, caring for the historic University Parks alongside landscaped areas surrounding academic departments across Oxford. The team helps create welcoming, safe and sustainable outdoor environments that are enjoyed by students, staff, local communities and visitors from around the world

What We Offer 

Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:

• 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service.
• One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.
• An excellent contributory pension scheme.
• Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
• Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.

About the Role 

As a Senior Gardener, you will take on an active and hands-on role across the University’s extensive green estate, working as part of a close-knit team to deliver high-quality grounds and horticultural maintenance. You’ll also have opportunities to lead teams on projects, support day-to-day operations, and play a key role in mentoring apprentices and developing colleagues.

Your responsibilities will span seasonal planting and lawn care, border and shrub maintenance, safe machinery operation, and implementing landscaping schemes. You’ll contribute to a wide variety of work, from specialist projects to everyday operations - with the chance to develop your own technical and leadership skills along the way.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a visible and lasting impact on the University’s green spaces, contributing to the beauty and function of the estate in support of world-leading research, teaching, and public engagement.

About You 

You will be an experienced horticultural professional with a recognised craft qualification, confident working with a wide range of tools and equipment. You'll bring:

• A relevant horticultural qualification (e.g. NVQ Level 2, City & Guilds, BTEC National Diploma, NCH)
• PA1 and PA6 pesticide certification
• A full driving licence
• Strong practical plant knowledge and horticultural experience
• The ability to lead small teams and mentor apprentices
• A commitment to health and safety, team collaboration, and quality work

Application Process 

To apply, please upload:

• A covering letter/supporting statement
• Your CV
• The details of two referees

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Monday 10 August 2026.

Interviews will take place Wednesday 19 August 2026, and will be held face-to-face.

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