Vacancy – Gardner / General Maintenance Person
We are seeking a reliable, practical, and experienced Gardener/General Maintenance Person to look after the gardens, grounds, and general upkeep of a substantial country property. The role combines hands-on gardening with general handyperson duties around the main house and associated self-catering holiday accommodation. Winter work may include other general maintenance work on Leys Estate.
This is a varied role suited to someone who enjoys working outdoors, takes pride in maintaining high standards, and can work independently. Hours to be agreed (full or part time considered).
Key Responsibilities
Gardening & Grounds Maintenance
- Day-to-day maintenance of extensive gardens and grounds, including lawns, borders, hedges, trees, and paths
- Lawn care (mowing, edging, feeding, scarifying as required) and strimming rough areas
- Hedge cutting, pruning, weeding, and general plant care
- Maintenance of small vegetable and flower garden
- Seasonal gardening tasks (planting, mulching, leaf clearing, winter preparation, etc.)
- Basic care of garden machinery and tools
- Monitoring and reporting any issues with trees, drainage, fences, or boundaries
General Handyman / Maintenance Duties
- General repairs and maintenance around the main house and outbuildings
- Some painting and decorating touch-ups as required
- Maintenance of fences, gates, sheds, and outdoor furniture
- Assisting with small DIY projects as needed
Self-Catering Holiday Accommodation Support
- Carrying out general maintenance and repairs to ensure accommodation is kept in good working order
- Preparing the property between guest stays (minor fixes, checks, reporting issues)
- Responding promptly to maintenance issues during guest occupancy when required
- Working alongside cleaning or property management staff as necessary
General
- Maintaining a tidy and safe working environment
- Identifying and reporting larger maintenance issues that require contractors
- Liaising with owners or property managers regarding priorities and planned works
- Occasional seasonal or ad-hoc tasks as required on a country estate such as snow clearing, firewood processing
Skills & Experience
- Proven experience in gardening and grounds maintenance and use of garden equipment
- Practical handyman skills with good all-round DIY ability
- Ability to work independently, with discretion and to manage time effectively
- A proactive, flexible, and problem-solving approach
- Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors in all seasons
- Full UK driving licence preferred
- Chainsaw operating certificate an advantage but not a pre-requisite
- Experience working on country properties or estates desirable
Please send your CV, covering letter, and references to [email protected]
Shortlisted applicants will be invited for interview and an informal visit to the estate. All applicants must be eligible to work in the UK and possess valid references.