Groundskeeper, Chesapeake Bay, Maryland PLACED

Job Title: Groundskeeper & Property Caretaker

Location: Worton, MD (Chesapeake Bay Waterfront Estate)

Job Type: Full-Time, Year-Round

Housing: Onsite accommodation available; living onsite preferred

Job Description:

Our clients are currently seeking a dedicated and skilled Groundskeeper & Property Caretaker for a waterfront estate located on the Chesapeake Bay in Worton, Maryland. This year-round, full-time position offers the unique opportunity to care for and maintain a 3,000-acre property, with a focus on approximately 5 acres of highly-maintained grounds. The role reports directly to the Farm Manager and involves regular interaction with the estate’s long-standing owner and their extended family.

The Property:

Situated on the Chesapeake Bay, this expansive estate features a blend of meticulously maintained landscapes and natural surroundings. The property is accessed via a well-kept road that serves several other homes, primarily used seasonally or by farm staff. The main residence is a year-round home for the Owner, with additional seasonal visits from the Owner’s grown children and their families.

The Family:

This estate has been in the family for many years and is currently overseen by an 88-year-old Owner who maintains an active lifestyle with frequent travels to Washington DC, other domestic locations, and occasionally international destinations. The Owner values long-term relationships with household, garden, and office staff, ensuring a warm and supportive working environment. The role will require regular personal contact with the Owner and coordination with the Farm Manager to support both the current and next generation of the family.

Key Responsibilities:

• Groundskeeping: Assist with all aspects of grounds maintenance under the guidance of the Farm Manager. Responsibilities include lawn care, leaf management, weeding, landscaping, and other related tasks. Competence in operating lawn mowers, tractors, and other large equipment is required.

• Estate Management Training: Engage in training under the Farm Manager with the potential to grow into an Estate & Property Manager role. This training will cover property management, daily estate operations, employee and vendor management, equipment repair and maintenance, and, if interested, aspects of farm management.

• Vehicle Maintenance: Ensure the estate’s vehicles are always clean, well-maintained, and ready for use.

• Mail Collection: Collect and manage daily mail and packages from the farm office.

• House Maintenance & Cleaning: Assist with maintaining mechanical systems, changing light bulbs, removing trash, and supporting housekeeping tasks as needed.

• Pool & Tennis Court Maintenance: Oversee the care and upkeep of the estate’s pool and tennis court.

• Ad Hoc Projects: Undertake various house, farm, and yard projects as requested by the Owner or Farm Manager.

Qualifications:

• Proficiency in operating yard equipment; experience with pool maintenance is a plus.
• Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and the ability to collaborate effectively with others.
• A strong work ethic and a willingness to undertake a wide range of tasks, from groundskeeping to household maintenance.
• Exceptional service orientation with a proven ability to support the Owner, family, and guests in a private estate setting.
• Excellent interpersonal and management skills, ensuring effective working relationships with the Farm Manager, family members, staff, and vendors.
• A high level of discretion, respecting the Owner’s preferences, privacy, and possessions.
• Stamina, a positive attitude, and a sense of humor to thrive in an isolated, team-oriented environment.

Compensation & Benefits:

• $90,000-$110,000 DOE
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid Time Off (both leisure and sick leave).
• Onsite housing available, with relocation assistance if necessary.

Additional Information:

• Covid vaccination is not required.
• Candidates must be able to reliably commute to Worton, MD, or be willing to relocate with employer-provided housing.