Employment Type: Full-Time, On-Site
Reports To: Estate Manager
Schedule: Tuesday–Saturday (Sundays and Mondays off), with occasional evenings, weekends, or holidays as needed.
Compensation: $90K–$125K BOE, paid PTO, holidays, medical insurance, and phone reimbursement.
Summary
A privately owned, historically registered estate seeks an experienced Private Estate Gardener to join its operations team. The ideal candidate is a passionate multi-dimensional horticultural professional with refined design sensibility, deep plant knowledge, and a hands-on approach to maintaining world-class gardens and grounds—working collaboratively with estate staff to support the family’s lifestyle and uphold the property’s legacy of excellence.
Key Responsibilities
Lawn & Horticultural Care
Maintain gardens and grounds to a pristine, “green and thriving” standard.
Diagnose and treat plant health issues organically whenever possible.
Plan and implement seasonal color rotations in collaboration with homeowners’ wishes.
Prune trees and shrubs (up to 12 feet in height) using proper horticultural techniques.
Follow the arborist and soil report recommendations.
Keep detailed records of plantings, treatments, and design modifications.
Understand and manage the specific care needs of St. Augustine turfgrass, roses, native plants, aquatic plants, fruit trees, and herb gardens, among others.
Project Management
- Develop and manage annual landscape maintenance and improvement plans.
- Prepare and monitor operating budgets; oversee purchasing and inventories.
- Coordinate subcontractors for tree pruning, fertilization, irrigation, lawn care, pest control, and related services.
- Manage small-scale projects from concept through completion.
- Source and maintain relationships with high-caliber vendors and service providers.
Water Features: Natural Pool, Water Garden, and Stream
Maintain the natural pool system and water garden, including performing water-quality checks, inspecting equipment, and caring for all plants.
Equipment, Grounds Maintenance & Events
- Inspect irrigation systems regularly; perform head replacements and leak repairs.
- Maintain landscape tools and equipment in safe, reliable condition.
- Support upkeep of exterior lighting, speakers, hardscape, outdoor furniture, and gutters.
- Monitor drainage and wastewater systems to ensure proper flow and function.
- Assist with estate events and seasonal preparations as needed.
- Carefully track water use and actively promote responsible management.
Professional Qualifications
-
Experience: Minimum 5 years on large, high-end residential or estate properties.
-
Education: Degree or certification in Horticulture, Landscape Management, or related field preferred; Irrigation Technician Certificate (CIT) a plus.
-
Expertise: Strong knowledge of soils, plants, turfgrass, and ornamental species.
-
Technical & Mechanical Skills: Familiarity with smart irrigation systems, equipment maintenance, and basic technology (Google Workspace, Trello, Microsoft Office).
-
Bonus Skills: Experience with natural pools or ponds; strong design eye for plant palettes; CPR/AED certification; understanding of organic landscape management practices.
- Personally vetted resources, professional curiosity, and commitment to learning.
Personal Requirements
- Valid driver’s license, insurance, and U.S. work authorization required.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and work outdoors in varying conditions.
- Highly discreet, reliable, and organized.
- Self-motivated, disciplined, and capable of independent work.
- Strong communicator and collaborative team player.
- Detail-oriented and proactive in identifying and resolving landscape challenges.
- Committed to safety, risk management, and confidentiality.
- Willingness to assist with hospitality and event support as needed.
- Brings a humble attitude, positive spirit, and respect for teamwork.
- Must genuinely enjoy the company of dogs.
Why This Role
This is more than a gardening role — it’s a chance to preserve and improve a living landscape rich in history, artistry, and significance. The principals appreciate craftsmanship, durability, and quiet excellence.
It’s also a rare opportunity to work with exceptional employers and alongside the estate’s long-serving Horticulturist, who will retire after 14 years of dedicated service. During a 6–9-month transition, the new Gardener will receive direct mentorship to learn the property’s systems, plant collections, and landscape philosophy before taking full responsibility for caring for and managing the grounds — all while maintaining the landscape to the highest standards of quality. This position will evolve, shifting to a Monday–Friday schedule once additional landscape staff are hired.
To Apply
If you are an accomplished horticulturist seeking a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to steward an exceptional estate, we invite you to apply. Please submit your résumé and a brief statement outlining your relevant experience with private estates or high-end residential properties.
