The High Commission of India, Nairobi, is inviting applications from qualified and motivated individuals for the position of Gardener. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals with hands-on experience in landscaping, horticulture, and grounds maintenance to work in a diplomatic environment that values diligence, responsibility, and professional upkeep of its premises.
Gardener
The High Commission of India in Nairobi plays a vital role in fostering and strengthening diplomatic, economic, cultural, and developmental relations between India and Kenya. Maintaining the High Commission’s premises is an important part of its daily operations, symbolizing not only professionalism but also the beauty and discipline associated with India’s official representation abroad.
To ensure that the grounds, gardens, and green spaces of the Mission reflect these high standards, the High Commission seeks to recruit a skilled Gardener who will be responsible for maintaining the lawns, plants, trees, and overall landscape of the compound. The ideal candidate should be physically fit, experienced in horticultural practices, and capable of managing both outdoor and indoor plants with professionalism and care.
Position: Gardener
Location: High Commission of India, Nairobi
Employment Type: Full-time
Application Deadline: 14th November 2025
Age Limit
Applicants must be between 22 and 35 years old at the time of application. This age bracket ensures that the selected candidate is in good physical condition and capable of carrying out the outdoor and manual tasks associated with the position effectively throughout the year.
Educational Qualification
- Applicants must have good proficiency in spoken English, as this is essential for communication and following instructions within the diplomatic environment of the High Commission.
Experience Requirements
The position requires applicants to demonstrate prior experience and competence in horticultural or landscape maintenance roles. Candidates should meet the following experience criteria:
- Hands-on experience in gardening, landscaping, and maintenance of lawns and plants is essential.
- Familiarity with local plants, seasonal flowers, pruning techniques, soil preparation, and pest control is highly desirable.
- Demonstrated ability to design and maintain visually appealing gardens that enhance the aesthetic value of the compound will be considered an added advantage.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The successful candidate will perform a variety of gardening and grounds maintenance tasks. The core duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
- Plant Maintenance and Care
- Planting, watering, weeding, pruning, and fertilizing trees, shrubs, flowers, and grass to maintain healthy and attractive gardens.
- Monitoring plant health and applying pest control methods where necessary.
- Ensuring that both outdoor and indoor plants are well-maintained, properly positioned, and regularly cleaned.
- Landscape Development and Upkeep
- Assisting in landscaping design and implementing improvements to enhance the beauty of the High Commission’s grounds.
- Maintaining walkways, flower beds, fences, and garden fixtures.
- Ensuring cleanliness and tidiness of the premises at all times by removing debris, fallen leaves, and other garden waste.
- Operation of Gardening Tools and Equipment
- Operating and maintaining various gardening tools, lawnmowers, trimmers, and irrigation systems in a safe and efficient manner.
- Reporting equipment malfunctions and ensuring timely servicing to minimize downtime.
- Maintaining proper storage and inventory of tools, fertilizers, and other gardening supplies.
- Watering and Irrigation Systems
- Managing manual and automated watering systems to ensure proper hydration of plants during dry and wet seasons.
- Adjusting watering schedules according to seasonal needs and plant types.
- Inspecting irrigation systems for leaks or blockages and conducting minor repairs when necessary.
- Soil Preparation and Composting
- Preparing soil for planting through appropriate mixing, fertilization, and aeration.
- Managing compost bins, recycling organic waste, and using compost effectively to enrich soil fertility.
- Ensuring sustainability in garden management through eco-friendly practices.
- Pest and Disease Management
- Identifying common plant pests and diseases and taking preventive or corrective actions using appropriate methods.
- Maintaining safe practices in handling and application of fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides.
- Seasonal Gardening Activities
- Planning and executing seasonal planting, pruning, and re-landscaping schedules in coordination with the administration.
- Preparing plants for seasonal changes to maintain garden health and appearance year-round.
- General Maintenance Support
- Assisting with small outdoor repair or maintenance tasks related to the compound.
- Coordinating with maintenance personnel and other staff members to ensure that the overall aesthetic and functional aspects of the premises are upheld.
Skills and Competencies Required
Applicants must demonstrate proficiency and aptitude in the following skills and competencies to be successful in this role:
- Gardening Knowledge: A sound understanding of horticultural practices, plant care, and garden design principles.
- Equipment Handling: Ability to operate lawnmowers, trimmers, pruning shears, watering systems, and other gardening tools safely and efficiently.
- Plant Identification: Familiarity with local flora, seasonal flowers, and ornamental plants suitable for different weather conditions.
- Watering and Irrigation: Knowledge of various watering techniques, irrigation systems, and methods for maintaining soil moisture.
- Composting and Soil Health: Understanding of composting methods, soil preparation, and the use of organic or chemical fertilizers.
- Safety and Precaution: Awareness of safety procedures when using garden equipment and applying fertilizers or pest control substances.
- Aesthetic Sense: Ability to maintain gardens that are visually appealing, well-arranged, and consistent with the High Commission’s standards.
- Time Management: Capacity to manage daily tasks efficiently and complete assigned duties within deadlines.
- Communication Skills: Proficiency in English to understand work instructions, communicate with colleagues, and report issues accurately.
- Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively with other support staff and maintenance teams within the premises.
Physical Fitness
Given the physically demanding nature of the position, applicants must be physically fit and able to perform outdoor manual tasks in various weather conditions throughout the year. The role involves activities such as lifting, bending, digging, mowing, and extended periods of standing or walking. Physical endurance, stamina, and strength are therefore essential.
Character and Background Requirements
All shortlisted candidates will be required to submit the following mandatory documents before final selection:
- Police Clearance Certificate (PCC): To confirm good conduct and absence of a criminal record.
Both certificates may be submitted at a later stage of the recruitment process but are mandatory before appointment.
Applicants must also demonstrate reliability, integrity, and a professional attitude consistent with working in a diplomatic environment
Remuneration and Contract Terms
The selected candidate will be offered a locally recruited staff position, subject to the terms and conditions established by the High Commission of India, Nairobi. The salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience, in line with the Mission’s internal pay structure.
Application Procedure
Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit their applications before deadline 14th November 2025. .
Applicants should ensure that their application clearly indicates the position being applied
Important Notes
- The deadline for applications is 14th November 2025.
- The High Commission’s decision in the selection process will be final.
- Applicants are encouraged to ensure that all provided information is accurate and verifiable. Any false or misleading information may lead to disqualification.
- Police Clearance and Health Certificates are mandatory before appointment.
