Groundskeeper, Woody Plant & Tree Care Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Position Overview

A private estate is seeking an experienced, hands-on Groundskeeper with a strong background in woody plant care, horticulture, and landscape maintenance. This role is primarily responsible for the care and stewardship of the estate's grounds, including trees, shrubs, gardens, natural areas, trails, lawns, and fields.

The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of plant health, Northeast growing conditions, and best practices for maintaining both cultivated landscapes and natural woodland environments. This position requires a proactive individual who takes pride in creating and maintaining beautiful, safe, and well-cared-for outdoor spaces.

Occasional on-call availability, including weekends, is required to address urgent property-related needs.  

This is an exciting opportunity to care for a beautifully appointed property with an exceptional arboretum.  This opportunity also offers excellent benefits package.

• Perform annual pruning and plant health care for a diverse collection of trees and shrubs.
• Maintain lawns, fields, and pasture areas to high standards.
• Conduct forestry and tree work, including selective pruning, clearing, and general woodland management.
• Monitor and manage watering requirements for newly installed trees, shrubs, and landscape plantings.
• Maintain walking paths, trails, and other outdoor recreational areas.
• Walk the property regularly to identify maintenance needs, safety concerns, and opportunities for improvement.
• Remove debris, leaves, and litter to ensure grounds remain clean, safe, and visually appealing.
• Coordinate with vendors, contractors, and internal team members to support daily operations.
• Complete work orders and priorities assigned by estate leadership.
• Respond to after-hours or emergency property issues as needed.

• Strong knowledge of horticulture, forestry, tree care, irrigation systems, landscaping, and grounds maintenance practices.
• Extensive knowledge of native woody trees and shrubs, with the ability to care for both managed landscapes and natural woodland settings.
• Valid Pesticide Applicator License required.
• Working knowledge of methods, materials, and equipment used in estate grounds maintenance.
• Experience with gardening, perennials, annuals, composting, and irrigation system repairs is preferred.
• Previous experience working on large private estates, equestrian properties, golf courses, parks, or similar environments is highly desirable.
• Ability to safely operate power equipment and machinery, including chainsaws, tractors, mowers, trimmers, and pruning equipment.
• Physically capable of lifting up to 80 pounds and performing demanding outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
• Willingness to assist with additional property-related tasks as needed.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Positive, proactive, and service-oriented approach to work.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Demonstrated discretion and ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
• Ability to successfully complete all pre-employment requirements.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

We are seeking a self-motivated professional who genuinely enjoys working outdoors and takes pride in caring for exceptional landscapes. The ideal candidate combines technical horticultural expertise with a hands-on work ethic, sound judgment, and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety, appearance, and property care.