Estate Gardener
Sintra, Portugal
You apply off-site, with the employer or the job board. I never handle applications.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Estate Gardener to join the team at a beautiful private estate in the Sintra region of Portugal.
Nestled within the rolling hills of Sintra, Portugal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the estate enjoys a unique climate and is home to ornamental gardens, extensive lawns, mature trees, citrus and olive groves, productive orchards and ornamental water features. The gardens continue to evolve, providing an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic gardener to become part of their long-term development.
We are looking for someone who is passionate about horticulture, enjoys working to exceptionally high standards and takes genuine pride in producing beautiful gardens. This is a varied, hands-on role within a supportive team, offering the opportunity to work across every aspect of estate gardening while contributing to the ongoing care and improvement of an exceptional private property.
The Role
The successful candidate will play an important role in the day-to-day maintenance and ongoing development of the estate. Working as part of the estate gardening team, the successful applicant will work closely with the Estate's Horticultural Consultant to deliver seasonal work programmes and maintain the gardens and grounds to an exceptional standard.
Responsibilities will include:
● Maintaining ornamental gardens, lawns, orchards and landscaped areas to an exceptional standard.
● Caring for citrus, olive and fruit trees throughout the seasons.
● Operating a range of horticultural machinery, including tractors, ride-on mowers and powered equipment.
● Assisting with seasonal planting, pruning, irrigation and plant health management.
● Maintaining water features and supporting the overall presentation of the estate.
● Working safely and efficiently while contributing positively to the wider estate team.
No two days are the same, making this an ideal opportunity for someone who enjoys a varied workload and takes satisfaction from seeing the results of their work.
About You
The successful candidate will:
● Have previous professional horticultural or estate gardening experience.
● Be confident operating horticultural machinery and equipment, including tractors, strimmers, hedge trimmers and chainsaws (where appropriately trained).
● Possess a sound practical knowledge of ornamental gardens, lawns, trees and fruit production.
● Demonstrate excellent attention to detail and consistently produce work of the highest standard.
● Be reliable, organised and capable of working independently as well as within a team.
● Be confident leading and coordinating a gardening team on a day-to-day basis, while working under the direction of the Estate's Horticultural Consultant. For the right candidate, there is scope to take on increasing responsibility over time and progress into a Head Gardener position.
● Have a positive, professional attitude and excellent communication skills.
● Be physically fit and comfortable working outdoors throughout the year.
● Have a genuine passion for horticulture and a desire to continue learning and developing professionally.
● Hold the right to work in the EU.
Salary & Benefits
Salary: £30,000-£35,000 gross per annum, depending on experience.
Paid Leave: 32 days' paid annual leave per year.
Accommodation: Comfortable accommodation provided.
Utilities: Electricity and water bills included.
Career Progression: We are committed to investing in the right candidate. As the estate continues to develop, there will be opportunities for increased responsibility, ongoing professional development and, for the right individual, progression into a Head Gardener position.
This position is employed under Portuguese employment law and associated terms and conditions.
Join Our Team
This is a rare opportunity to become part of the long-term development of a unique private estate in one of. Portugal's most beautiful and historically significant regions.
If you are an enthusiastic gardener who takes pride in producing exceptional work and would like to build your career in a rewarding estate environment, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: 35,000.00€ - 40,000.00€ per year
Work Location: In person