Estate Groundskeeper Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of property maintenance, the role of estate groundskeepers is absolutely essential.

As landscapes flourish and change, the demand for skillful individuals who can nurture, manage, and protect our estates grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What does an estate groundskeeper truly do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager delineating the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the day-to-day operations of estate groundskeeping,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable estate groundskeeper job description template, ideal for posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Estate Groundskeeper Duties and Responsibilities

Estate Groundskeepers are responsible for maintaining and improving the landscapes of large properties.

They work with various types of plants, trees, and lawn areas, as well as with outdoor structures and irrigation systems.

The duties and responsibilities of an Estate Groundskeeper include:

• Surveying the property regularly to assess its health and aesthetics
• Planning and executing landscape maintenance and improvement projects
• Mowing, edging, and fertilizing lawns
• Weeding and mulching landscape beds
• Trimming small trees, hedges, and shrubs
• Applying pesticides and preventatives to infested or at-risk areas
• Inspecting and maintaining irrigation systems
• Removing snow or ice from walkways and driveways
• Maintaining outdoor structures such as fences, gates, benches, and sheds
• Planting new trees, flowers, and shrubs
• Ensuring the safe and efficient operation of tools and machinery

 

Estate Groundskeeper Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Estate Groundskeeper to maintain and enhance the exterior grounds of our property.

The Estate Groundskeeper’s responsibilities include maintaining outdoor areas, garden landscapes, maintaining equipment, and performing minor repairs.

They should have a keen eye for detail and a strong aptitude for physical work.

Our ideal candidate will be able to work efficiently, be comfortable with manual labor, and have a deep appreciation for aesthetics and nature.

 

Responsibilities

• Maintain and improve landscape and garden areas
• Operate and maintain groundskeeping equipment
• Perform minor repairs on property structures
• Perform seasonal groundskeeping duties such as snow removal or spring clean-up
• Maintain cleanliness of outdoor spaces and remove waste and debris
• Monitor and maintain the health of plants and grass
• Ensure security of outdoor premises
• Adhere to health and safety regulations
• Work with landscape designers or horticulturists, as required

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a groundskeeper or similar role
• Knowledge of horticulture and landscaping
• Familiarity with landscaping design
• Ability to handle and operate groundskeeping tools and equipment
• Physical strength and stamina
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver’s license
• Certification in horticulture or landscape design is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Estate Groundskeeper
• Work Environment: Outdoors, in various weather conditions. Physical work is a major part of the job role.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Estate Manager or Property Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $50,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Estate Groundskeeper Do?

Estate Groundskeepers are primarily responsible for maintaining the aesthetic and functional quality of large properties or estates.

Their tasks involve mowing lawns, trimming trees and shrubs, planting flowers and other greenery, and ensuring the overall tidiness and cleanliness of the outdoor spaces.

They also perform upkeep and repair tasks such as checking and repairing irrigation systems, maintaining outdoor furniture, handling pest control, and repairing walkways or other outdoor structures.

In some cases, they are responsible for the care and maintenance of water features like fountains, ponds, or swimming pools.

Estate Groundskeepers may also be asked to perform seasonal tasks such as planting in spring, leaf removal in fall, or snow removal in winter.

They need to have a thorough understanding of landscaping and horticulture practices, and they often work closely with landscape designers or architects to enhance the beauty of the estate.

In their role, they are expected to be proactive, identifying potential problems before they become major issues, and ensuring that the estate’s grounds are always kept to a high standard.

 

Estate Groundskeeper Qualifications and Skills

An efficient Estate Groundskeeper should possess the skills and qualifications that align with the nature of the job, such as:

• Knowledge of horticulture and landscape design to maintain and enhance the aesthetic appeal of the estate.
• Ability to operate and maintain landscaping equipment like lawn mowers, leaf blowers, and pruning tools to keep the estate in prime condition.
• Physical fitness to perform tasks such as lifting, bending, and standing for long periods.
• Attention to detail to identify any potential issues within the estate, including damage, pests, or potential safety hazards.
• Problem-solving skills to address issues that may arise within the grounds, such as irrigation problems, disease in plants, or damage to the landscape.
• Interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with estate owners, managers, and other staff members about the needs and status of the grounds.
• Ability to work in different weather conditions, as the job requires maintaining outdoor spaces throughout the year.
• Knowledge of safety procedures and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to prevent accidents during the performance of duties.

 

Estate Groundskeeper Experience Requirements

Estate Groundskeepers may begin their career with on-the-job training or through an apprenticeship program where they learn basic horticulture and grounds maintenance.

This experience could span 1 to 2 years and provides a foundation of knowledge in tasks such as mowing, pruning, fertilizing, and irrigation.

Several years of experience, typically 2 to 3, in similar roles such as Park Maintenance Worker, Landscape Technician, or Horticultural Assistant, often helps candidates to develop more advanced skills.

These roles can provide experience with plant identification, pest management, and the use of advanced landscaping equipment.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience are generally considered seasoned professionals.

They might have specialized knowledge in areas such as landscape design, garden restoration, or estate management.

Such candidates are often capable of supervising junior staff and managing large estate grounds.

Those with more than 5 years of experience typically have a track record of successfully maintaining large or complex landscapes, and they may have gained managerial experience.

These individuals are often equipped to take on roles that require leading a team of groundskeepers or managing the grounds of large estates or public parks.

 

Estate Groundskeeper Education and Training Requirements

Estate Groundskeepers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent as a basic educational requirement.

They may also need formal training in horticulture or a related field.

Community colleges and vocational schools often offer certificates or associate degrees in landscape design, turf management, or arboriculture.

Estate Groundskeepers should have a solid knowledge of various plants, trees, and lawn care methods.

Experience or training in using various types of gardening equipment and tools is also necessary.

Some states require Groundskeepers to hold a pesticide application license if their duties involve applying pesticides and fertilizers.

This typically involves passing a state-administered exam.

While not always required, professional certification such as a Certified Grounds Technician (CGT) from the Professional Grounds Management Society can be beneficial and demonstrate a higher level of competence and commitment to the field.

Hands-on experience can be invaluable for this role.

Many Groundskeepers start their careers in entry-level positions and learn on the job, gradually taking on more complex tasks as they gain experience.

Continued education and staying current with the latest advancements in horticulture and grounds maintenance can also be beneficial for career advancement.

 

Estate Groundskeeper Salary Expectations

An Estate Groundskeeper earns an average salary of $31,200 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can differ depending on the size of the estate, the complexity of tasks, location, and years of experience in the field.

 

Estate Groundskeeper Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Estate Groundskeeper need?

An Estate Groundskeeper should have excellent attention to detail to maintain the aesthetic appeal of the estate.

They should possess physical stamina as the job involves strenuous activities like lifting, climbing, bending, and operating heavy machinery.

Knowledge of horticulture, landscaping, and gardening is essential.

They should also have problem-solving skills to deal with issues such as pests or plant diseases.

 

Do Estate Groundskeepers need a degree?

While a degree is not typically required for an Estate Groundskeeper, some formal education or certification in horticulture, landscaping, or a related field can be beneficial.

Employers often value practical experience and demonstrable skills more highly than academic qualifications in this role.

 

What should you look for in an Estate Groundskeeper resume?

An Estate Groundskeeper’s resume should include relevant work experience demonstrating practical skills in gardening, landscaping, or grounds maintenance.

Look for knowledge of plant care and pest management, experience with irrigation systems and landscaping equipment, and any certifications or training related to the field.

Physical fitness and the ability to perform hard labor are also important considerations.

 

What qualities make a good Estate Groundskeeper?

A good Estate Groundskeeper is physically fit, self-motivated, and able to work independently.

They should have a passion for outdoor work and a keen eye for detail to maintain the aesthetics of the estate.

They should also have good organizational skills to plan and execute maintenance schedules and a basic understanding of safety procedures for equipment operation and pesticide use.

 

What is the difference between an Estate Groundskeeper and a Landscaper?

While both roles involve maintaining and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of outdoor spaces, an Estate Groundskeeper is typically responsible for the ongoing care and maintenance of a single property, whereas a Landscaper may work on multiple properties and often involves planning and implementing new designs or major changes to existing landscapes.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you a glimpse of what it truly means to be an estate groundskeeper.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about mowing lawns.

It’s about sculpting beautiful landscapes, one plant at a time.

With our comprehensive estate groundskeeper job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating detailed job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every blade of grass is part of a grander vista.

Let’s cultivate that future. Together.

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