Horticulturalist

About the Role

• Lead the care of diverse and established gardens with room for creativity and improvement • Oversee the maintenance, planting, and development of gardens, landscaped areas, and school grounds • Use expert plant knowledge to select, cultivate, and care for a wide variety of species, ensuring year round presentation • Lead seasonal planting programs, soil preparation, pruning, mulching, turf care, and pest/disease management • Plan and implement garden improvement projects and long term planting strategies • Maintain irrigation systems, garden equipment, tools, and machinery • Ensure the grounds are safe, tidy, and well-presented at all times • Support outdoor areas used for learning, events, and school activities

Key Responsibilities

• ▸garden care
• ▸plant selection
• ▸seasonal planting
• ▸irrigation
• ▸project planning
• ▸safety

What You Bring

We are on the hunt for a Senior Gardener with exceptional plant knowledge to lead the care and development of our school grounds. As an integral part of our facilities team, you will help create a safe, beautiful, and inspiring environment for students, staff, and visitors. Our campus features a mix of ornamental gardens, lawn areas, native plantings, sports fields, and outdoor learning spaces, offering real ownership of the landscape and a chance to showcase horticultural expertise in a setting that values quality, creativity, and sustainability. • Significant experience in horticulture, gardening, or grounds maintenance—preferably in a large site or educational environment • Exceptional plant knowledge, including ornamentals, natives, perennials, shrubs, trees, and seasonal displays • Strong practical skills in pruning, propagation, turf care, pest identification, and landscape maintenance • Confident with garden machinery and equipment, with a commitment to safety • Eye for detail and pride in maintaining beautiful, welcoming outdoor spaces

Requirements

• ▸plant knowledge
• ▸pruning
• ▸propagation
• ▸turf care
• ▸garden machinery
• ▸safety

Benefits

Ventia is enriched by the diverse experiences, talents and cultures of our people, and we celebrate and respect the communities in which we operate. We are committed to providing a safe and positive environment that offers equal opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds, including Māori and Pasifika people, LGBTTQIA+, women, veterans, spouses, and people with disabilities. • Work in a supportive and values driven community environment • Opportunities for professional growth, further training, and horticultural development • The chance to make a visible, lasting impact on a beautiful campus enjoyed by young learners every day

Work Environment

Onsite