Seasonal Groundskeeper / Estate Landscaper
Private Horse Ranch | Northwest Illinois
Seasonal: April 15 – November 1
A private, family-owned horse ranch in Northwest Illinois is seeking an experienced Seasonal Groundskeeper / Estate Landscaper to manage both ornamental landscaping and large-scale grounds maintenance on a working horse property.
This is a hands-on, largely independent role suited for a seasoned professional who understands how to work unobtrusively on a private property - pausing or relocating work as needed when owners or guests are present, and scheduling work so that the best presentment of the grounds coincides with the arrival of guests.
Responsibilities
- Maintain extensive residential landscaping, including perennials, annuals, and woody shrubs
- Seasonal cutbacks, pruning, deadheading, edging, weeding, and bed maintenance
- Design, install, and maintain annual plantings (including 100+ linear feet of planters)
- Maintain existing irrigation system, including basic repairs
- Identify and treat plant disease and pest issues
- Preference for natural weed control methods; traditional methods as appropriate
- Spread mulch (est. 50–60 cubic yards annually)
- Spring and fall cleanups
- Maintain a small herb and vegetable garden
- Mow and trim all residential areas, stables, orchard, lane and walking paths
- Operate and maintain equipment; perform basic mechanical upkeep or facilitate repairs
- Occasional tractor operation and ground-handling horses (no riding)
Work Structure
- Approx. 40 hours/week (20 landscaping / 20 mowing)
- Flexible, weather-dependent schedule
- Occasional overtime available
- Reports to General Manager; works primarily alone
Qualifications
- 5 or more years professional landscaping or estate grounds experience
- Strong plant knowledge and turf management skills
- Experience with mowers, hand tools, and power equipment
- Ability to work independently and self-motivate
- Valid driver’s license; clean driving record
- Must pass background check
- Authorized to work in the U.S.
- English proficiency sufficient for English-only supervision
- Horse and tractor experience a plus
Physical Requirements
- Lift/carry 50+ pounds
- Prolonged standing, walking, bending, kneeling
- Work outdoors in varied weather conditions
- Operate vibrating equipment and perform repetitive motions
Compensation & Housing
- $24-30/hour, based on experience (W-2)
- Optional on-site housing available (details provided separately)
- Employment is seasonal and at-will
