Alpine Trainee Placement

We have a fabulous opportunity for a Horticulturist to develop and gain experience in the cultivation, propagation, and conservation of alpine plants at some of the most important establishments in the country. Funded by the Alpine Garden Society, you will primarily be based at RBGE with placements at Haweswater, Harlow Carr, Birmingham Botanic Garden and Goteborg. You will also have the opportunity to be involved in AGS activities and events: Seed Exchange, AGS Garden maintenance, Flower Shows, etc.

You will receive training in all aspects of growing alpine plant cultivation and how to use these plants effectively in displays. This will include being involved in maintaining and enhancing the alpine plant collections in all the gardens, the propagation, and maintenance of alpine plant collections as well as plant record management. In addition, time will be spent visiting other gardens and institutes. As part of the placement, you will be required to post weekly social media posts and a monthly blog as well as produce an end of programme report. 

 Applicants should have a passion for growing alpine plants and be qualified to SVQ Level 1/2 or equivalent, be able to work to very high horticultural standards, be computer literate, able to work in a group situation or individually, be highly motivated and be a good communicator. Additionally, the successful candidate should ideally have some knowledge of botanical horticulture and garden maintenance.

35 hours per week, fixed term (18 months) starting 13 January 2025

Salary: £25,424, plus civil service pension and other benefits