Position of Assistant Island Gardener - Herm Island

Position of Assistant Island Gardener
The Challenge.
An exciting opportunity to join the islands ‘out door’ team as assistant to ‘The Island Gardener’,
maintaining and improving the islands award winning gardens (Britain in Bloom Gold Award and
Winner 2002 & 2008 and many other local awards).
The Island Gardens comprise.
The island totals 300 acres including 100 acres of farmland – see the numerous pictures on web
site. The gardening team are responsible for the entire island as if it were a garden making use of
the islands many microclimates for exotic planting! The main areas of responsibility are the
Harbour Village area (Hotel, Shops, Tavern) and The Manor Village area (Self-catering and island
residents). Other areas include the Manor House private gardens, Beach Cafes and the entrance
areas to the island – the harbour & Rosaire Steps). Other responsibilities include award winning
tree planting – 20,000 trees over 24 years.
The Work Role.
Guaranteed never a dull moment working in a healthy, outdoor environment with a commute time
of just a few minutes!
Working primarily with the Island Gardener but assisted by the 3 truckies/outdoor team with jobs
such as lawns, trees etc. In turn the gardeners help with cargo handling etc.
The Assistant Gardener must be willing to become part of the islands retained fire team and also
train to become a first aider.
Ideal Candidate
Good gardening skills together with strength/fitness and a good sense of humour are essential;
ideally this position would suit a young, enthusiastic and recently qualified gardener.
The successful applicant must also be willing to get involved in the community side of Herm as
well as the work side.
It may be possible for partners/spouses to find seasonal work in hotel, tavern, beach cafes etc
Working Week
Five days 40 hours during the winter months increasing to 6 days 48 hours in season. Remunerated
on a time sheet basis.
Housing
A single bedroom central heated first floor flat with large lounge, kitchen area and shower room
situated in the Manor village area, literally minutes from the beaches in all directions!
Nominal charge for gas & heating but no rent or council tax!

Recreation
Wonderful beaches and walks, swimming after work in the summer, fishing, kayaking and outdoor
pursuits in beautiful surroundings.
The island has a football team, winter darts league and newly-created artificial cricket pitch as well
as a tennis court within the hotel grounds. There is a Village Hall for use by islanders with a table
tennis board.
The Mermaid Tavern is open throughout the winter. Good restaurants with a 25% discount on food
for permanent island residents. Guernsey is just 20 minutes away by hourly ferry (free to
employees) in summer and twice daily in winter with additional midday sailings on Wednesdays
and Saturdays in winter. Nominal charge for out-of-high-season visiting family in self-catering
units if required.
The Rewards
This is an exciting and challenging position in a healthy environment with an idyllic life style. A
realistic hourly wage plus end of season bonus, 4 weeks’ holiday, good rent-free housing, low tax
of 20% starting at 9K, no rates or council taxes and no need for a car! 50% of relocation costs.
This represents a generous package when compared to UK salaries and living expenses.
Commencement
Early September
Applications
Applications in writing addressed to ‘Technical Director’, Herm Island, Via Guernsey, Channel
Islands. GY1 3HR. Include full CV, current photograph including partner/spouse if applicable, and
a letter with details and enough background information for us to assess the suitability of the
applicant to live and work in our small island community. Emails to: - simongeorge@herm.com