We’re Hiring: Community Gardener

Job Description

WHALE Arts is looking for a friendly, practical and community-minded Community Gardener to help develop and maintain our vibrant community garden in Wester Hailes.

This exciting role will support local people to connect with nature, creativity and each other through gardening, food growing, outdoor activities and seasonal events. The successful candidate will work closely with local people to create a welcoming and inclusive outdoor space that supports wellbeing, biodiversity and community connection.

Part-time: 14 hours per week
Salary 25,599 pro rata
Fixed-term contract until April 2029 based at WHALE Arts, Wester Hailes, Edinburgh.

We are looking for someone with experience in gardening or horticulture, strong people skills, and a passion for community-led green spaces. This is a hands on role involving practical garden maintenance, supporting participants and helping deliver creative and nature based activities. This post is funded through the National Lottery Community Fund for 3 years to April 2029.

WHALE Arts is a building-based and place-based community-led charity and social enterprise, founded by local people in 1992. Our mission is to be the creative heart of a thriving community.

Role Purpose

The Community Gardener will work with local residents, volunteers and staff to maintain and develop the WHALE Arts Community Garden as a welcoming, accessible and creative community space. The role will support gardening, horticulture and outdoor activities that promote wellbeing, sustainability, biodiversity and community participation.

Main Duties

• Maintain and develop the WHALE Arts Community Garden and outdoor spaces
• Support gardening, food growing and nature based activities with community members and volunteers
• Deliver practical garden maintenance including planting, weeding, composting and landscaping
• Support outdoor workshops, seasonal events and community activities
• Promote environmentally sustainable gardening and biodiversity
• Work closely with the community food, programming and operations teams
• Ensure safe working practices and maintain garden tools and equipment

Person Specification

We are looking for someone who:

• Has experience in gardening, horticulture or community growing projects
• Enjoys working outdoors in all weather conditions
• Has good practical gardening and maintenance skills
• Is organised, reliable and able to work independently and as part of a team
• Has strong communication and people skills
• Enjoys working with diverse communities and volunteers
• Is enthusiastic about sustainability, nature and community wellbeing