Botanist Gardener job (M/F) in Normandy, France
Job description
A private estate in Normandy, whose gardens and parkland are heritage-listed and recently restored, is seeking an experienced and passionate Botanist Gardener with genuine botanical expertise.
The property extends over 12 hectares and includes parkland with an English-style garden, a kitchen garden, an orchard and a greenhouse.
It is occupied all year round and requires a continuous presence and upkeep to the highest standards. The property is also open to the public six months a year.
Botany is at the heart of this role: knowledge of plants, rare species and their conservation is essential. The successful candidate will work alongside the existing gardening team and coordinate external contractors, under the direct supervision of the owners.
Permanent contract. Full-time, 40 hours per week. Accommodation provided. Start as soon as possible
Responsibilities
Garden Maintenance & Development
- Routine upkeep of the parkland and gardens (pruning, planting, weeding, watering) with the team
- Management and upkeep of the kitchen garden and orchard (planting, watering, harvesting) with the team
- Upkeep and management of the greenhouse with the team
- Botanical expertise: knowledge and conservation of rare species and specialist plants
- Ordering plants, seeds and maintenance products
- Driving and operating agricultural and gardening machinery (tractor, ride-on mower, leaf blower, hedge trimmer, etc.)
- Upkeep and maintenance of tools and equipment with the mechanic
Management & Coordination
- Working alongside the existing gardeners
- Acting as point of reference and coordinator within the gardening team
- Coordinating external contractors and service providers
- Weekly reporting to the owners
Requirements
- Training in horticulture, botany or landscaping: highly valued
- Minimum of 5 years' experience in a similar role
- Hybrid profile: maintenance gardener AND botanist, with expertise in both fields expected
- Excellent knowledge of plants, rare species and conservation techniques
- Fluent French, essential
- Full car driving licence (Category B), mandatory
- Agricultural machinery licence, appreciated
- Ability to work as part of a team in a spirit of good cooperation
- Conscientious, autonomous, discreet and professional
Work conditions
- Location: Normandy
- Contract type: Permanent (with a 3-month probationary period)
- Hours: 40 hours per week, 8am to 4pm (flexibility required when needed)
- Start date: As soon as possible
- Accommodation: Independent accommodation on the property
- Benefits: Company vehicle available + supplementary health insurance (mutuelle)
