JOB DESCRIPTION: ASSISTANT GROWER (TRANSITION TO HEAD GROWER)
Reports To: Head Grower (April–August) / Directors (from September)Department: Market Garden – Osip & The Old PharmacyLocation: Bruton, Somerset
PURPOSE
The Assistant Grower is a transitional leadership role designed to develop into the position of Head Grower from September onward. Working closely with the current Head Grower during the spring and summer season, the Assistant Grower will gain full understanding of the systems, standards, and responsibilities required to independently manage two market garden sites totalling approximately one acre. The gardens directly supply Osip and The Old Pharmacy, whose menus are led by seasonality and availability from the land. Each restaurant has a distinct culinary identity and specific growing requirements. The role requires close collaboration with chefs to ensure consistent delivery of exceptional, seasonal produce while maintaining the integrity and long-term health of the land.
ABOUT THE GARDENS
Approximately one acre under cultivation across two sites in and around Bruton •Over 200 varieties of vegetables and soft fruitThree polytunnels for season extensionOne propagation greenhouse (all plants raised in-house)The gardens are managed using chemical-free, agroecological principles incorporating no-till/no-dig systems, on-site fertility building, diverse polycultures, green manures, and season extension techniques.Surplus produce is sold to other restaurants within the local area.
TRANSITION STRUCTURE
April–May: 8 hours per week (£13 per hour)
June–August: 16 hours per week (£13 per hour)
From September: Full-time Head Grower role (compensation to be negotiated)
During the transition period, the Assistant Grower will work alongside the Head Grower during peak planting and harvesting season. From September onward, the successful candidate will assume full responsibility for managing the gardens independently, with limited weekly assistance during peak season. This timeline is flexible and can be discussed during the recruitment process.
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Crop Production & Garden Management:Propagation, planting, and succession schedulingBed preparation and soil fertility managementCultivation and weeding throughout the seasonManaging irrigation for field and protected cropsHarvesting, washing, and preparation of produceDeveloping and maintaining crop plans in collaboration with the restaurants
Kitchen & External Communication:Ongoing communication with kitchen teams regarding availability and quantitiesPreparation and distribution of fresh listsManaging surplus sales and coordinating deliveries
Planning & Administration:Record keeping and yield trackingBudgeting and financial oversight of the gardenPurchasing supplies and materialsSeasonal planning and preparation
Infrastructure & Stewardship:Maintenance of tools, irrigation systems, polytunnels, and greenhouseMaintaining gardens to a high aesthetic and horticultural standardRespectful interaction with landowners and their workersHosting tours for media, guest chefs, and restaurant patrons
Team Leadership:Managing occasional helpers and volunteersWorking independently for extended periods while maintaining high productivity
ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS
Minimum two full seasons’ experience in organic or regenerative vegetable productionCommitment to chemical-free, no-till/no-dig growing systemsStrong understanding of seasonality within the South West UK climateCompetency with human-powered market garden tools and techniquesExcellent time management and organisational skillsClear and professional communication skillsFull UK driving licence and personal vehicle due to rural locationFlexibility regarding seasonal hours and occasional weekend work
DESIRABLE
Experience growing for restaurant kitchensCrop planning for consistent quantities and succession harvestsKnowledge of agroecological techniquesExperience leading tours or speaking to groupsBackground in hospitalityCommitment to professional developmentA strong interest in food and cooking
This job description outlines the general nature and level of work required for the role. It is not an exhaustive list of duties or responsibilities. The company reserves the right to amend or add to this job description in line with business needs. Employees are expected to adopt a flexible approach and undertake reasonable additional duties as required.
Author
Posts
Viewing 1 post (of 1 total)
- You must be logged in to reply to this topic.
#J-18808-Ljbffr…