About the Role
Castle Howard Estate Tree Nursery is seeking a reliable, practical and hardworking Tree Nursery Assistant to support the day-to-day operation of its commercial bareroot tree nursery.

Part of the Estate's Natural Environment Team, the nursery plays an important role in supporting Castle Howard's nature restoration programmes. Producing high-quality trees for planting across North Yorkshire and further afield, the nursery contributes directly to the long-term stewardship of landscapes, woodlands and habitats.

This is a varied, hands-on outdoor role involving the production, care, lifting and preparation of trees, together with general nursery and machinery duties. We are looking for someone who enjoys practical outdoor work and is keen to develop their skills within a growing business. Whether you are recently qualified in a land-based subject or have practical experience on a farm, nursery or estate, this is an opportunity to build a long-term career in tree production.

Key Responsibilities
Assist with all stages of tree production, including planting, cultivation, crop maintenance, lifting and harvesting.
Grade, count, bundle, label and prepare trees accurately for orders and dispatch.
Monitor tree health and carry out routine nursery tasks including weed control, irrigation and general maintenance.
Operate tractors, ATVs, implements and nursery machinery safely and responsibly, following appropriate training and authorisation.
Carry out routine checks and basic maintenance of machinery, equipment and tools.
Load, unload and move trees, materials and supplies safely around the nursery.
Maintain accurate records and help keep nursery fields, buildings, storage areas and workspaces safe, tidy and organised.
Support colleagues with wider nursery and Estate activities during busy seasonal periods.

About You
 
Essential
A full UK driving licence.
A reliable, practical and positive approach to work.
Willingness and ability to work outdoors throughout the year in all weather conditions.
Good physical fitness and the ability to undertake manual and repetitive practical tasks.
An interest in farming, forestry, horticulture, tree production or the natural environment.
Ability to follow instructions, work safely and use equipment responsibly.
Good attention to detail and pride in producing high-quality work.
Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
Desirable
Experience within agriculture, farming, forestry, horticulture, nurseries or other land-based industries.
Experience operating tractors, ATVs or agricultural machinery.
Relevant land-based qualifications, machinery certificates or tickets.
An interest in trees, plant health, sustainable production and nature recovery.

Why Join Us?
Permanent, year-round employment in a growing commercial tree nursery.
Opportunity to develop practical skills in tree production, machinery operation and crop management.
Work as part of Castle Howard's Natural Environment Team, contributing directly to nature restoration and landscape management projects.
A varied role with visible results and the opportunity to work through the full tree production cycle.
A unique rural working environment within one of the UK's most significant historic estates.