Horticulture Apprentice

BACKGROUND

Lismore Castle has been the Irish home of the family of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire since 1753. Lord and Lady Burlington, the Duke and Duchess’ son and daughter-in –law, currently lead the Devonshire Family’s interest in the Estate. The Castle is situated above the River Blackwater in the Heritage town of Lismore, County Waterford.

The garden has been an inspiration to writers and artists for centuries and it is said to be the oldest continually cultivated garden in Ireland. Lismore’s rich and varied history is reflected in its gardens, which are enjoyed by our garden visitors every year.

Surrounded by ancient defensive walls and turrets, the garden covers approximately ten acres, incorporating:

• Extensive herbaceous borders orchard, fruit cage, lawns, wild meadow and mature trees

• A spring garden featuring camellias, rhododendrons, and magnolias

• A kitchen garden that provides vegetables, soft fruit and cut flowers for the Castle year round

• A recently restored original Paxton Vinery

• Polytunnels for plant propagation and plant production for sale to visitors

• A proximity to Ireland’s Southern coast ensuring a comparatively mild climate in winter and superb growing conditions.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

• Delivery of a high standard of horticulture and a willingness to learn best practice horticultural techniques

• A desire to acquire a strong plant knowledge

• Assist in the day-to-day maintenance and development of Lismore gardens including:

management of soil, trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants; turf care; pest & disease; weed control; compost; path care, plant propagation and irrigation.

• Be able to work as part of a team or independently on tasks set by the Head Gardener or Gardens Supervisor.

• To work in a safe manner in accordance with company health and safety policy at all times.

• To communicate and assist with requests from the public and castle guests.

• To work weekend duties when required.

• To undergo training as and when required to enable fulfilment and development of role.

• To operate and maintenance of garden machinery, tools.

• Assist cross departmental teams

PERSON SPECIFICATION

• Leaving certificate or equivalent education

• Ability to work within a team in all- weather conditions.

• Ability to follow instructions with excellent attention to detail.

• Full Irish driver licence (desirable but not essential)

• Passionate about horticulture and sustainability.

• Be flexible in working hours in line with peaks and troughs of activity in the calendar year.

• Dynamic – ability to bring energy to the organisation

• Interpersonal skills

• Ability to prioritise and meet deadlines

What we offer

We can offer you the opportunity to work in the beautiful surroundings of the Lismore Estate in County Waterford, Ireland. This is an excellent opportunity for an individual to earn a Level 6 in horticulture while also earning valuable hands-on experience working with a team of knowledgeable horticulturalist.

Applicants should note the successful candidate will be expected to successfully complete 6 months of probation with Lismore Castle Gardens before they commence the apprenticeship in September 2025.

Our core values include “Being Inclusive” and we particularly welcome applications from disabled and Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates who are currently under-represented. We also welcome applicants from the LGBTQ+ community.