Premier’s Department Horticulturalist You. At the centre of big ideas. Work within the historic gardens and grounds of Government House Sydney Apply your horticultural skills in a unique heritage estate environment Ongoing, Clerk Grade 3/4 ($84,659 - $92,701 per annum) opportunity, based in Sydney CBD About the Role This is a rare opportunity for an experienced horticulturalist to take a hands-on role in one of NSW’s most significant and distinctive garden settings, where presentation standards are uncompromising and the work directly supports a high-profile, publicly accessible estate. As a Horticulturist , you will support the delivery of day-to-day maintenance and seasonal programs across the historic gardens and grounds at Government House Sydney. Working within the Estate Team, you will apply your expertise across routine and specialised tasks that sustain daily presentation, support conservation priorities and enable new garden preparation and renewal across the site. You will bring strong technical capability in plant health, soil management, propagation, irrigation care, and integrated pest and weed management, with a focus on proactive risk identification and continuous improvement. Your work will help safeguard the long-term health and character of a complex heritage landscape. Working closely with the Senior Horticultural Coordinator, you will assess garden conditions, help plan and deliver maintenance and conservation works, and respond quickly to operational priorities. You will also contribute to preparing the estate for public visitation, official functions and ceremonial events, ensuring the gardens consistently reflect the significance of the site. If you are an experienced horticultural professional who takes pride in exceptional garden presentation and is motivated by the stewardship of a living heritage landscape, we encourage you to apply. To learn more about Government House Sydney and the Estate Team, visit: http://www.governor.nsw.gov.au . To learn more about the role please review the Role Description . Government House Sydney Government House Sydney, the residence and the seat of administration of the Governor of New South Wales – the oldest statutory office in Australia - is staffed by employees of the NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet. The team at Government House Sydney supports the Governor in the conduct of constitutional, ceremonial and community duties. Collectively, the five functional areas (Protocol, Household, Estate Management, Communications and Secretariat) ensure that every aspect of the Governor’s and spouse’s programs of official engagements and engagement with the community are appropriately coordinated, managed and planned; that the official residence is suitably maintained; that the administrative arm of the organisation operates in accordance with relevant policies and guidelines; and that the heritage buildings, contents and grounds are managed and presented to the highest standard. Our people undertake challenging and rewarding work to support the Governor and to ensure a positive experience for visitors and guests. We are guided by our core values of integrity, trust, service and accountability. We also provide our people with opportunities to learn, develop and adapt within an inclusive and supportive environment. W e're Looking For H orticultural experience: Demonstrable experience delivering a broad range of horticultural works in a professional setting, with the ability to plan and prioritise tasks to meet high presentation standards (experience in public gardens, parks, estates or heritage environments is highly regarded). Proven skills across plant identification and cultivation, pruning and garden renewal, propagation, soil improvement, turf care, and soft landscaping; with the ability to maintain landscape presentation to a consistently high standard. A Certificate III in Horticulture (or higher), or demonstrated equivalent industry experience with a current Class C NSW Drivers Licence. Safety and compliance: Sound understanding of WHS requirements and safe systems of work, including hazard identification, correct use of PPE, and the safe handling, storage and application of chemicals and equipment in accordance with procedures. Physical capacity to undertake hands-on horticultural duties, including lifting and carrying up to 15kg, kneeling, bending, and moving across the site in outdoor conditions. Equipment and site operations: Experience operating a range of horticultural tools and small plant and machinery, including mowers, brush cutters and blowers, and chainsaws where appropriately qualified and competent. Ability to undertake routine equipment care, monitor and troubleshoot irrigation systems, and maintain accurate maintenance, chemical and stock records. Teamwork and communication: Proven ability to work effectively as part of a small, professional team, while also working independently to deliver assigned programs and maintain standards across the site. High level communication skills, including the ability to liaise with supervisors, colleagues and contractors, provide updates on progress and issues, and contribute to safe and coordinated work practices. Capability and commitment: Demonstrated pride in delivering high-quality garden outcomes, with a strong eye for detail and commitment to maintaining landscapes of heritage significance to an exceptional standard. We value diverse experiences. Even if you're not sure you meet all requirements, we encourage you to apply. Why Join Us? Be Part of Living History: Contribute to the ongoing legacy of Government House, working within a passionate team dedicated to preserving and enhancing one of NSW’s most iconic heritage estates. Grow Your Career: Access tailored professional development, expert-led training, and learning pathways designed to build your expertise and support your career progression. Thrive in a Supportive Environment: Benefit from a strong focus on wellbeing, including access to the Employee Assistance Program, Fitness Passport, and workplace wellbeing initiatives. Belong to an Inclusive Community: Join a workplace that celebrates diversity and inclusion through staff-led networks such as the Aboriginal Staff Advisory Committee, Diversity & Inclusion Network, and Young Professionals Network. Work with Flexibility: Enjoy a healthy work–life balance with a range of flexible working arrangements tailored to support your lifestyle and responsibilities. How to Apply Click ‘Apply Online’ and submit your application including: A resume detailing relevant knowledge, skills and experience (maximum 5 pages) A cover letter addressing how you meet the requirements of the role (maximum 2 pages) Closing date: Monday, 25 May 2026 (9:59 AM) S alary: Clerk Grade 3/4. Package includes base salary ($84,659 - $92,701 per annum) plus superannuation (12%) and leave loading. H iring Manager: Mark Fitzgerald, Senior Horticultural Coordinator on Mark.Fitzgerald@governor.nsw.gov.au About the Premier's Department C onnecting to Deliver from the Heart of Government The Premier's Department leads the state's 430,000 public servants, driving collaboration and the delivery of whole-of-government priorities. Learn more about the department , a career at Premier’s Department and Government House Sydney . O ur Commitment We welcome and encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the LGBTQIA community, people with disability, people with caring responsibilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, veterans and other diverse communities. The Premier's Department acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work and live. We pay respect to Ancestors and Elders past and present. We recognise and learn from the strengths of First Nations peoples of New South Wales and their continuing connection to, and unique cultural and spiritual relationship with, Country. A dditional Information R easonable Adjustments: The selection process will include assessment techniques to determine your suitability. You can request reasonable adjustments at any stage by indicating in pre-screening questions, contacting the Talent Team at PCT@premiersdepartment.nsw.gov.au , or reaching out to the hiring manager. T alent Pool: A talent pool may be created from this recruitment process. If eligible, you may be contacted for ongoing and temporary opportunities in the same role or grade that become available over an 18-month period.
