Full-time

Woodstock Vermont area

Start date- to be determined/flexible

Position Overview

This is a privately owned property situated in the Woodstock area of southern Vermont.  The owner is looking for a caretaker of a country estate comprising approximately 209 acres of forest, fields, hiking trails, a small pond for swimming, a large farmhouse, barn with renovated caretaker quarters and a small house nearby.  The caretaker will be responsible for the overall 4 season maintenance of the property being houses, lawns, the pond and forest trails, maintenance of the vehicles and small farm equipment, snow/ice removal, supervising contractors and vendors and maintaining good relations with family, neighbors and any staff. The caretaker will also be responsible for hiring and supervising seasonal staff.  It will be a requirement of the position to live on property and be available year-round.

Responsibilities

• Landscaping- Supervise gardeners who maintain formal gardens and plantings to the standards expected, maintain lawns and fencing, keep property boundary markers visible, maintain drainage facilities and monitor/prune shrubs and trees for proper growth and health.
• Pond- Keep Pond in good condition for summer swimming and fall/winter safety.
• Fields- Arrange for mowing of fields and use of hay, plan for yearly applications of lime and other fertilization to keep fields productive.
• Supervisory- Responsible for hiring/firing seasonal employees.  Oversee contractors hired for large jobs and specialized projects. Be sure gardens and shrubs are maintained to the standards expected.
• Facilities Oversight- See to the maintenance of all housing and barn facilities including heating systems, water management, electrical and security systems. Responsible for minor repairs and replacements and arrange for completion of larger repair and replacement projects.
• Financial- Honest use of funds provided for maintenance is expected and monitored. Maintain good record of expenses with monthly reporting to owner representatives. Get estimates for large projects and equipment maintenance for review with owners’ representatives.
• Trail Maintenance- Keep trails clear of branches and other obstructions.  Be sure trails are clearly marked and as safe for hiking as possible given the environment.
• Boundary Markers- The property has been surveyed and markers placed at strategic locations. Caretaker must be familiar with the property and check the markers at least annually to be sure they are unobstructed and clearly visible.  No trespassing notices must be maintained and placed on boundary trees/posts in accordance with public policy.
• Public Relations- A very important aspect of this position is to maintain positive yet objective relations with family members, neighbors, seasonal staff, contractors, public works employees and owner representatives. 

Qualifications

 Honesty, good oral and written communication skills, ability to manage spread sheets, working knowledge of New England plant and tree maintenance, good problem-solving skills, good working knowledge of and ability to operate small farm and landscape machinery, comfortable in New England weather conditions, experience with snow removal, willingness to learn more about maintenance of household systems and horticultural science, comfortable living in a moderately remote location, flexible dealing with multi-faceted personalities, valid driver’s license, good moral character.

Salary and Benefits

 Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.  Must live on property in housing provided, utilities paid in full, healthcare, flexible vacation arrangements.

Application process

Candidates please send cover letter and resume to [email protected]

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