Head Landscape Operative (Gardener)

Salary details: £ - £

Head Gardener – Bring History to Life Through Horticulture

Do you dream of leading a team in one of Derbyshire’s most iconic landscapes? 

We’re looking for a skilled and passionate Head Gardener to take the lead in maintaining and enhancing the Grade II listed gardens and grounds of Elvaston Castle Country Park. This is a rare opportunity to combine heritage horticulture, biodiversity, and visitor experience in a role that’s as rewarding as it is beautiful. 

You’ll manage a dedicated gardening team, shape seasonal work plans, and bring the park’s historic gardens to life for thousands of visitors each year. From planting schemes and conservation to community engagement and events—you’ll be at the heart of a living landscape. 

What makes this role special? 

• You’ll lead the care of a nationally significant heritage garden 

• You’ll work closely with the Elvaston Castle and Gardens Trust, local communities and stakeholders 

• You’ll blend traditional horticulture with modern sustainability and visitor engagement 

• You’ll help shape the future of one of Derbyshire’s most loved green spaces 

We’re looking for someone who: 

• Has strong horticultural experience and leadership skills 

• Can plan, supervise, and inspire a team of gardeners and volunteers 

• Understands the value of heritage, biodiversity, and public access 

• Is ready to roll up their sleeves and make a visible difference 

Whether you’ve worked in historic gardens, public parks, or private estates—if you’ve got the passion and the know-how, we’d love to hear from you. 

Want to chat about the role? 
Drop me an email  peter.hogg2@derbyshire.gov.uk I’d be happy to tell you more. 

Ready to apply?

Please read the job and person profile to help you complete your application. Please detail how you meet the skills and experience we are looking for.

We believe that hard work and commitment should be rewarded, and we offer:

• Generous Annual Leave Scheme (25 days increasing to 30 days after 5 years’ service): Ensuring a healthy work-life balance.
• Local Government Pension Scheme: Providing financial security.
• Wellbeing Support Framework: Includes OH physician services, fast track physiotherapy and confidential psychological support services.
• Training and Development: Opportunities for professional qualifications and ongoing training.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Promoting a healthy lifestyle.
• Our Derbyshire Rewards: a package of benefits and discounts.
• & much more

Closing Date: Sunday 6th July 2025

Provisional Interview Date: Week Commencing 14 July 2025

We really look forward to hearing from you!

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Apply now and take the first step towards a fulfilling career with us! By joining Derbyshire County Council you will have access to a range of amazing rewards and employee benefits, including our generous annual leave scheme, excellent local government pension and fantastic employee discounts. To discover more detail about the rewards and benefits available to you, click here

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We welcome applications from individuals who share our values — being Collaborative, Innovative, Empowered and Accountable. These values describe who we are and what we stand for as a council. They help shape our culture, encourage consistent behaviour and guide how we work together to make a positive difference for both our employees and the residents we serve.