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
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Experience: Minimum 5 years on large, high-end residential or estate properties.
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Education: Degree or certification in Horticulture, Landscape Management, or related field preferred; Irrigation Technician Certificate (CIT) a plus.
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Expertise: Strong knowledge of soils, plants, turfgrass, and ornamental species.
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Technical & Mechanical Skills: Familiarity with smart irrigation systems, equipment maintenance, and basic technology (Google Workspace, Trello, Microsoft Office).
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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 to: Kelly@estatemanagementsystems.com.
